Multi-Domain Synchronization in Vehicle Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle network technologies, such as CAN and FlexRay-based networks, fail to meet the high transmission rate and system expandability requirements of enhanced safety and infotainment systems, leading to inaccuracies in time synchronization due to differences between local and reference times of communication nodes.
Innovation Solution
A method that operates multiple time domains within a vehicle network by determining a new reference grand master node based on synchronization offsets, allowing communication nodes to adjust their synchronization references for improved accuracy and performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single reference grand master node is used for time synchronization in a vehicle network, then the system structure is simple and easy to manage, but time synchronization accuracy deteriorates due to differences between local time and reference time of communication nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the vehicle network into multiple time domains, each with its own reference grand master node. Instead of using a single centralized reference node for the entire network, the system segments the synchronization function across multiple domains. Each domain independently manages its own reference time, allowing communication nodes to select the most appropriate reference node based on their specific requirements and domain characteristics, thereby improving synchronization accuracy without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the dimension of multiple reference grand master nodes operating simultaneously in different time domains. Rather than relying on a single reference node in one dimension, the system creates additional reference dimensions across multiple domains. This allows communication nodes to access reference time from different dimensional perspectives, improving the overall synchronization accuracy by providing more reference options and reducing time differences.
2Measurement precision
If multiple time domains with multiple reference grand master nodes are implemented, then time synchronization accuracy is improved, but the system complexity and difficulty of management increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing each time domain to have its own reference grand master node with domain-specific characteristics. Each domain can be optimized independently for its local requirements, with reference nodes selected based on domain-specific performance criteria. This localized approach improves synchronization accuracy within each domain while keeping the complexity manageable by limiting the scope of each reference node's influence to its own domain.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic selection of reference grand master nodes, where communication nodes can dynamically choose which reference node to synchronize with based on current domain performance and requirements. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to changing conditions and optimize synchronization accuracy in real-time without requiring a complete reconfiguration of the entire synchronization architecture, thereby managing complexity through flexibility rather than rigidity.
3Device complexity
If communication nodes use a distant reference grand master node, then the system structure is simplified, but synchronization performance deteriorates due to larger time differences and potential delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the vehicle network into multiple time domains with geographically or functionally distributed reference grand master nodes. Instead of relying on a single distant reference node, the system creates multiple local reference points within different domains. Communication nodes can select a reference node that is topologically closer or functionally more relevant, reducing transmission delays and improving synchronization reliability while maintaining manageable system structure through the segmented domain architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
An operation method of a first communication node operating as a current reference grand master (GM) node in a vehicle network includes: transmitting a first synchronization message including a first reference time of the first communication node; receiving a first response message from a second communication node, the first response message including a first synchronization offset indicating a difference between a first local time of the second communication node and the first reference time; receiving a second response message from the second communication node, the second response message including a second synchronization offset indicating a difference between the first local time and a second reference time of a third communication node operating as a GM node; and determining the first communication node or the third communication node as a new reference GM node based on a result of comparison between the first synchronization offset and the second synchronization offset.