Master Reference Time Generator for Sub-Microsecond Signal Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems fail to synchronize video and audio signals from different sources effectively, leading to momentary loss of image stability when switching between sources, due to differing signal paths and independent reference signals that may not be in precise alignment.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a master reference time generator connected to slave reference signal generators via a packet network, where time data is encoded into packets and used to synchronize signals across an IP network, ensuring precise alignment and synchronization of signals in the sub-microsecond range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If independent reference signals are used for each signal source, then each source can operate autonomously, but the signals cannot be precisely synchronized when switching between sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a master reference signal as an intermediary that all slave reference signals synchronize to. This mediator enables precise synchronization across multiple autonomous sources by providing a common reference point, resolving the contradiction between autonomous operation and synchronization precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where slave reference signals continuously monitor and adjust their timing based on the master reference signal. This feedback loop ensures that even though sources operate autonomously, they maintain precise synchronization through continuous correction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If signals are transmitted through different signal paths, then multiple sources can be integrated, but the signals arrive with different delays and cannot be aligned
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary timing measurements and calculations to determine the expected delay for each signal path. By pre-calculating and compensating for these delays before signal switching occurs, the system eliminates alignment time loss when integrating signals from multiple sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts timing parameters for each signal path based on measured delays. By changing the timing parameters of slave reference signals to compensate for path-specific delays, the system achieves precise signal alignment despite different transmission paths.
3Measurement precision
If a master reference signal system is implemented, then precise synchronization is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the master reference signal generation and distribution functions into a centralized system, while slave units maintain simple local synchronization logic. This merging of complex functions into a dedicated master unit reduces overall system complexity compared to distributed synchronization approaches.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system as disclosed herein is suited for synchronizing unrelated information and/or reference signals originating from two or more broadcasting / multimedia equipment sources wherein the signals may be in different signal formats and/or subject to different delays at a receiving device. The system comprises a master reference time generator connected to at least one of a plurality of slave reference signal generators via a packet network. The master reference time generator comprises a master reference time counter and a sampling device for sampling the master reference time counter. The master reference time generator encodes time data in master reference time packets and feeds these packets into the packet network. The at least one of a plurality of slave reference signal generators is adapted to accept the encoded time data as an input in order to generate a reference signal, the phase of which is calculated based on the time elapsed since an initial time point. The slave reference signal generator comprises a slave reference time counter to generate time data elapsed from the initial time point. The slave reference time counter is connected to a sampling device for sampling the slave reference time counter. The master reference time counter and the slave reference time counter are sampled at time points derived from a time base synchronized on the master reference time generator and all of the slave reference signal generators of the network.