Multi-Reference Clock Module for Compact Network Synchronization

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing computer network clock synchronization technologies rely on bulky and expensive standalone time providers, which are not adaptable or cost-effective for compact and flexible integration into host computer systems.

Innovation Solution

A hardware module comprising a high stability oscillator, satellite signal receiver, and processor that determines an absolute physical hardware clock value, allowing for compact, adaptable, and cost-effective high-precision timing, compatible with various host systems and network protocols, and capable of functioning as a grandmaster clock in PTP networks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If standalone time providers are used for high-precision clock synchronization, then timing precision is improved, but device size and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetiming precisionVSAvoiddevice size

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple timing reference sources (oscillator, GPS receiver, network interface) and their processing functions into a single integrated hardware module. This merging allows the module to achieve high-precision timing comparable to standalone time providers while reducing overall device size and enabling compact integration into host computer systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The hardware module is designed with multi-functionality, supporting multiple timing reference sources (oscillator-based, satellite-based, network-based) and multiple output interfaces. This universal design allows a single compact module to replace multiple specialized devices, achieving high-precision timing without requiring bulky standalone time providers for each application.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If standalone time providers are used for high-precision clock synchronization, then timing precision is improved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetiming precisionVSAvoidcost

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple timing reference sources (oscillator, GPS receiver, network interface) and their processing functions into a single integrated hardware module. This merging allows the module to achieve high-precision timing comparable to standalone time providers while reducing overall device size and enabling compact integration into host computer systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The hardware module is designed with multi-functionality, supporting multiple timing reference sources (oscillator-based, satellite-based, network-based) and multiple output interfaces. This universal design allows a single compact module to replace multiple specialized devices, achieving high-precision timing without requiring bulky standalone time providers for each application.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple timing reference sources are integrated, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hardware module includes automatic selection logic that autonomously chooses the appropriate timing reference source based on availability and reliability. The module self-manages the complexity of coordinating multiple timing sources, selecting from oscillator, GPS, or network references without requiring external control, thus improving adaptability while containing internal complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The module implements feedback mechanisms to monitor the status and reliability of each timing reference source. Based on this feedback, the system automatically switches between different timing sources (e.g., from GPS to oscillator or network reference) to maintain high-precision timing, thereby achieving high adaptability through intelligent, self-regulating operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11824635B1Hardware module for determining a clock value based on multiple timing references

Publication Date: 2023.11.21 META PLATFORMS INC

AI summary

A hardware module includes a high stability oscillator, a satellite signal receiver, a processor, and electrical contacts. The high stability oscillator is configured to provide a first timing reference output. The satellite signal receiver is configured to receive signals transmitted by location positioning satellites and provide a second timing reference output. The processor is configured to use the first timing reference output from the high stability oscillator and the second timing reference output from the satellite signal receiver to determine an absolute physical hardware clock value and provide the absolute physical hardware clock value to a host system. The electrical contacts are configured to allow the hardware module to be electrically and physically coupled to and removable from the host system as a single physical module.