Machine Signal Synchronization Without Initial Time Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current machine controllers and systems lack the capability for high-precision temporal assignment of signals from internal and external sensor systems, preventing effective superordinate signal processing and synchronization.
Innovation Solution
A method that records data from independent data sources to create signal tracks, analyzes them based on domain knowledge, and temporally connects these tracks without the need for initial time synchronization, allowing for synchronization and improved fault detection and diagnosis in machining processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If data from independent data sources are recorded and temporally connected without initial time synchronization, then synchronization capability is improved, but system complexity increases due to the need for domain knowledge-based analysis and temporal connection algorithms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary analysis device that acts as a mediator between independent data sources with different time bases. This device performs domain knowledge-based analysis to temporally connect signal tracks without requiring the data sources themselves to be synchronized, thus resolving the contradiction by adding a specialized intermediary component rather than modifying the data sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the synchronization problem into two independent parts: data acquisition (which can proceed independently from each source) and temporal connection (which is handled separately by the analysis device using domain knowledge). This segmentation allows each data source to operate independently while still achieving precise temporal assignment through the analysis phase.
2Adaptability or versatility
If machine controllers are equipped with interfaces for superordinate signal processing, then signal processing capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of modifying machine controllers to add complex synchronization interfaces, the patent introduces an external analysis device as an intermediary that performs the temporal connection function. This keeps the original controllers simple while adding the necessary signal processing capability at the analysis stage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the need for hardware-based time synchronization interfaces in controllers with a software-based domain knowledge analysis system. This substitution achieves the same functional goal (temporal assignment) without requiring physical interface modifications to the controllers.
3Reliability
If external sensor systems are integrated with machine controllers, then monitoring capability is improved, but integration complexity and false alarm rates increase due to lack of temporal synchronization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces hardware-based time synchronization mechanisms with a software-based temporal connection approach using domain knowledge analysis. This allows external sensor systems to be integrated without complex hardware interfaces, reducing integration complexity while maintaining fault detection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from synchronizing time parameters at the hardware level to adjusting temporal relationships through domain knowledge-based analysis of signal characteristics. This parameter change allows for reliable fault detection without requiring precise hardware time synchronization.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for synchronizing signals which are related to a machine and/or a machining process, including recording data of a first data source to obtain a first signal track, recording data of at least one second data source, which is independent of the first data source, to obtain at least one second signal track, analyzing the first and second signal tracks based on previously known domain knowledge, and temporally connecting the first and second signal tracks.