Multi-Protocol Control Timing Synchronization Across Different Buses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control systems face challenges in synchronizing time between functional units operating with different communication protocols, leading to desynchronization of input and output times due to varying transmission delays across different buses and networks.
Innovation Solution
A control device with first and second communication means, each using a different protocol, and a synchronization mechanism that time-corrects timers to ensure synchronization across protocols, utilizing an external device with an independent timer for accurate synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If data is transmitted via different buses or networks with different protocols, then communication versatility is improved, but time synchronization accuracy deteriorates due to varying transmission delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a master device as an intermediary that coordinates time synchronization across multiple slave devices using different communication protocols. The master device generates synchronization signals and distributes them to slave devices, mediating the time coordination between heterogeneous protocol systems. This allows diverse protocols to coexist while maintaining synchronized timing through the master device's centralized control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adjusts timing parameters dynamically to compensate for protocol-specific transmission delays. Each slave device calculates correction values based on its protocol's characteristics and applies them to align its timing with the master device. This parameter adjustment enables accurate time synchronization despite variations in transmission characteristics across different protocols.
2Manufacturing precision
If time synchronization is implemented across different protocols, then control accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases due to multiple protocol interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the synchronization function into separate modules: a master device handles signal generation and distribution, while slave devices handle reception and local timing adjustment. Each protocol interface is implemented as an independent module that communicates through standardized timing signals. This segmentation allows complex multi-protocol synchronization to be managed through simple, reusable components.
Solution Approach 2:
The master device is designed with universal functionality to support multiple slave devices using different protocols simultaneously. It provides a single synchronization signal output that can be adapted to various protocol requirements through configuration settings. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate synchronization systems for each protocol, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Ease of operation
If transmission delay variation is allowed in multi-protocol systems, then ease of operation is improved, but time synchronization precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where slave devices measure the actual reception time of synchronization signals and compare it with expected timing. Correction values are calculated based on the measured delay variations and applied to adjust future timing operations. This feedback loop automatically compensates for transmission delay variations without requiring manual calibration, maintaining precision while keeping operation simple.
Data Source
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AI summary
A configuration for realizing time synchronization between different protocols is provided. There is provided a control device that constitutes a control system for controlling machines or facilities. The control device includes first communication means configured to transmit and receive data in accordance with a first protocol. The first communication means includes a first timer that defines a time of data transmission and is time-synchronized with an entity to and from which data is transmitted and received. The control device includes second communication means configured to transmit and receive data in accordance with a second protocol different from the first protocol. The second communication means includes a second timer that defines a time of data transmission and is time-synchronized with an entity to and from which data is transmitted and received. The control device includes synchronization means configured to time-synchronize the first timer and the second timer.