Multi-Sensor Monitoring with PTP Clock Synchronization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for synchronizing multiple sensor units in monitoring systems are complex, prone to errors, and require separate synchronization lines, making them difficult to expand or modify.
Innovation Solution
Each sensor unit includes an internal clock synchronized using Precision Time Protocol (PTP), eliminating the need for direct actuator synchronization and allowing independent operation, with a single connection for both time synchronization and data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate synchronization line is used to control actuators, then actuator synchronization is achieved, but system complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the synchronization function with the existing data transmission line. Instead of using a separate synchronization line, the system uses the same communication bus (e.g., Ethernet, fieldbus) to transmit both measurement data and synchronization signals. This merging eliminates the need for additional dedicated synchronization hardware and reduces system complexity while maintaining reliable actuator synchronization across multiple sensor units.
2Reliability
If a separate synchronization line is used, then actuator synchronization is achieved, but the number of connection lines increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling the data transmission line to serve dual purposes: carrying both measurement data from sensor units and synchronization signals for actuator control. The communication bus is designed to handle multiple types of information simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate dedicated synchronization lines and reducing the overall number of physical connections required in the system.
3Reliability
If traditional synchronization methods are used, then actuator coordination is achieved, but system expandability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by making each sensor unit an independent, self-contained module with its own control unit and actuator. Each sensor unit can be individually configured and controlled through the standardized communication interface. This modular segmentation allows the system to be easily expanded by adding or removing sensor units without affecting the synchronization mechanism or requiring modifications to existing units, thereby enhancing system adaptability while maintaining synchronization reliability.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for acquiring information about a predetermined monitoring area. The system comprises at least two sensor units, each with at least one sensor, at least one actuator for varying the orientation and/or position of the at least one sensor, and at least one control unit for controlling the at least one actuator. Each sensor unit includes an internal clock. The times of the different sensor units are synchronized with each other. The control unit of each sensor unit is configured to actuate the associated actuator(s) based on the synchronized time of the respective internal clock.