Microscope Clock Modulation for Synchronized Module Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microscope systems face challenges in achieving high bandwidth, low latency, and temporal accuracy in data transfer between modules, particularly with short pixel clocks, leading to inefficient communication and synchronization issues.
Innovation Solution
A central clock generator provides a modulated clock signal with a base frequency and clock-pulse number information, allowing microscope modules to synchronize processes and communicate efficiently by defining start times based on clock-pulse numbers, enabling synchronous operation and reducing delays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a synchronization signal is used for communication between modules, then process coordination between modules is achieved, but relatively long unused time periods arise due to unpredictable arrival times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having modules prepare data to be transmitted in advance, before the synchronization signal arrives. The module defines a future time for carrying out a process based on the clock-pulse number and carries out the process as soon as the clock-pulse number is reached, eliminating waiting time while maintaining coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical synchronization signal approach with an information-based clock-pulse number system. Instead of using a separate synchronization signal that modules must wait for, the system embeds timing information directly in the clock signal itself, allowing modules to independently determine when to execute processes without waiting for external synchronization events.
2Productivity
If pixel length is reduced to increase frame recording speed, then frame recording speed is improved, but delay from transfer and calculation prevents achieving sufficiently short pixel lengths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having modules perform calculations and prepare data in advance, before the clock-pulse number indicating the start time is reached. This allows the actual process execution to begin exactly at the intended future time without delay, enabling shorter pixel lengths and faster frame recording.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback by continuously monitoring the clock-pulse number and comparing it with the predefined future time for process execution. This feedback mechanism ensures that processes are executed at the precisely intended moment, eliminating delays while maintaining synchronization across modules.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated clock generators are used in each module, then module independence is maintained, but synchronization accuracy and temporal precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the clock generation function at the system level while maintaining module independence for other operations. A central clock generator provides a unified clock signal with clock-pulse numbers to all modules, ensuring synchronized timing across the entire system while modules remain independent in their data processing and transmission functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a clock signal with embedded clock-pulse numbers as an intermediary between the central clock generator and individual modules. This intermediary carries precise timing information that modules use to synchronize their operations without requiring direct communication or coordination between them, maintaining independence while achieving precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for timing procedures in a microscope system, which has a plurality of microscope modules configured to carry out various processes, provision is made for a clock signal to be provided to all microscope modules by a central clock generator and for the clock signal to be modulated by a clock modulation circuit in order to produce a defined clock-pulse number. The microscope modules define a start time for carrying out a process by way of the clock-pulse number, carrying out the process as soon as the clock-pulse number is reached. Moreover, a corresponding microscope system is described.