GPS Time-Stamped Triggering for Multi-Sensor Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor synchronization methods for autonomous vehicles are hindered by the lack of synchronization across multiple sensors due to their independent time bases, requiring large and error-prone trigger boards, and the need for additional components to set initial time points.
Innovation Solution
A multi-sensor synchronization method using GPS signals to generate trigger signals with time stamps, synchronizing operation timing and time across sensors like LiDAR, cameras, and radars, utilizing GPS PPS and GPRMC signals to create tailored trigger signals for each sensor type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a trigger board is used to synchronize multiple sensors, then the sensors can be synchronized through a generated trigger signal, but the system size increases and latency errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the time synchronization function from the trigger board and implements it directly in the sensors using GPS time information. Each sensor independently acquires GPS time data and synchronizes its operations based on this common time reference, eliminating the need for a centralized trigger board while maintaining synchronization reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces GPS time information as an intermediary that mediates synchronization between multiple sensors. Instead of using a trigger board to generate and distribute trigger signals, the GPS time data serves as a common reference that enables each sensor to independently align its operations, reducing system complexity while ensuring synchronized operation.
2Reliability
If a trigger board is used to synchronize multiple sensors, then the sensors can be synchronized through a generated trigger signal, but latency errors occur due to signal transmission delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical trigger signal transmission system with a time information-based synchronization system. Instead of relying on trigger signals that propagate through cables and circuits (prone to latency), the system uses GPS time data that is simultaneously received by all sensors, eliminating transmission delays and achieving precise synchronization without latency errors.
3Reliability
If a trigger signal is used for synchronization, then the initial time point can be set, but a separate offset function component is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the time synchronization function and the offset calibration function into a single integrated process. The GPS time information serves dual purposes: it provides the common time reference for synchronization and simultaneously establishes the initial time point for each sensor. This integration eliminates the need for separate offset function components while maintaining accurate time synchronization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the GPS time information multi-functional, using it both for synchronization and for setting initial time points. This universal approach allows a single time reference to fulfill multiple functions that previously required separate components, reducing system complexity while ensuring reliable time synchronization across all sensors.
Data Source
AI summary
Proposed is a multi-sensor synchronization method for synchronizing operation timing and time of each of multiple sensors using signals received from Global Positioning Systems (GPSs). The method may include the steps of: receiving, by a synchronization device, a reference signal for synchronizing a plurality of sensors from a Global Positioning System (GPS) device; generating, by the synchronization device, a trigger signal for each of the plurality of sensors based on the reference signal; recording, by the synchronization device, a time stamp for the trigger signal on the basis of time information included in the reference signal; and transmitting, by the synchronization device, the trigger signal including the time information recorded in the time stamp to each of the plurality of sensors.