Distributed HIL Simulator Temporal Synchronization via Time Messages
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for cross-linking and synchronizing computer units in distributed HIL simulators fail when the units are more than 100 meters apart, leading to precision issues in temporal assignment of interactions between automatic control devices and testing apparatuses, especially when located on different continents.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising two spatially separated computer units with executable model codes, where each unit processes time signals from a global source to generate modified time signals including periodic signals and time messages, allowing for precise synchronization and calculation result linking, even over long distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If computer units are spatially separated beyond 100 meters in distributed HIL simulators, then geographical flexibility and adaptability are improved, but temporal synchronization precision and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a time message as an intermediary carrier that transports temporal reference information from a master computer unit to slave computer units. This time message contains a timestamp from a global time source and enables precise temporal correlation of events across spatially separated units, solving the synchronization precision problem while maintaining geographical flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where time messages are continuously exchanged between master and slave computer units. The slave units receive time messages, adjust their local timing based on the received timestamps, and maintain synchronized operation. This closed-loop feedback ensures temporal precision is maintained regardless of spatial separation
2Adaptability or versatility
If computer units are located on different continents, then geographical adaptability is further improved, but temporal assignment precision and reliability of interaction testing worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The time message structure is designed as a universal protocol that can be transmitted across any communication network infrastructure, whether local or continental distances. The standardized format ensures consistent temporal reference establishment regardless of geographical location, enabling reliable operation from local to global scales
Solution Approach 2:
The global time source acts as a universal intermediary that provides a common temporal reference for all computer units in the distributed system. By mediating time synchronization through this external reference rather than relying on local clocks or network time protocols, the system achieves consistent temporal assignment reliability across continental distances
3Device complexity
If standard network connections are used for spatially separated computer units, then device complexity is reduced, but temporal synchronization precision deteriorates beyond 100 meters
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-service by leveraging existing standard network infrastructure for time message transmission without requiring specialized hardware or complex synchronization equipment. The computer units themselves generate, transmit, and process time messages using their own processing capabilities, eliminating the need for additional dedicated synchronization devices while maintaining precision
Data Source
AI summary
A system for testing at least a first automatic control device via a plant model includes: a first subsystem; and a second subsystem which is spatially separated from the first subsystem. The plant model comprises an executable first model code and an executable second model code. The first subsystem comprises a first time-signal processing component configured to electronically assign a first time signal (Ts1) from a global time source to a first event. The first model code is configured to provide a first calculation result based on the first event. The second subsystem comprises a second time-signal processing component configured to electronically assign a second time signal (Ts2) from the global time source to a second event. The second model code is configured to provide a second calculation result based on the second event.