Automated Timer Calibration via NTP Server for Air Quality Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current timer calibration methods for devices used in air quality analysis, such as microbial air samplers, are inaccurate due to reliance on manual processes and lack of traceable calibration, which is critical for precise measurement of time intervals in fluid analysis.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a Network Time Protocol (NTP) server for traceable calibration of timers, allowing for automated calibration by comparing the device's time interval to a reference time interval from a national metrology institution, eliminating human error and ensuring accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual calibration using a calibrated stopwatch/chronometer is employed, then traceable calibration is achieved, but the manual process of starting and stopping the chronometer adds considerable inaccuracy and dependence on human operator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical timing operations with an automated electronic system. The device automatically starts and stops the timer based on electronic signals from the sampling process, eliminating human reaction time variations. The calibration is performed automatically by the system comparing its timer against a reference timer, removing the need for manual chronometer operation while maintaining traceability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs self-calibration by automatically comparing its own timer measurements against a reference timer provided by a national metrology institute. The system independently executes the calibration process without requiring external manual intervention, using its own resources to verify and adjust its timing accuracy while maintaining traceability to national standards.
2Measurement precision
If automated timer calibration using NTP server is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional hardware and software requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a network time protocol server as an intermediary reference source. Instead of requiring direct physical connection to national metrology institutes or complex calibration equipment, the system uses an NTP server as a remote time reference that provides traceable time intervals. This intermediary approach simplifies the calibration process while maintaining precision and traceability.
Solution Approach 2:
The NTP server serves multiple functions: it provides time reference for calibration, enables automated comparison of time intervals, and establishes traceability to national standards. This multi-functional reference system replaces what would otherwise require separate calibration equipment, manual timing devices, and complex synchronization systems, thereby reducing overall device complexity while improving measurement precision.
3Ease of operation
If subjectively accurate timers are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but accuracy must be proven objectively which requires additional calibration hardware and processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective manual timing operations with automated electronic timer control. The timer is automatically started and stopped by electronic signals from the sampling process, eliminating the need for manual chronometer operation. This maintains ease of operation while enabling objective verification through automated calibration against NTP reference.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by automatically comparing its timer measurements against reference time intervals from the NTP server. The calibration process uses this feedback to verify accuracy and make necessary adjustments, allowing the device to maintain simple operation while objectively proving its measurement accuracy through automated verification.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for calibration of a timer, comprising: a device (1) comprising a timer (10), wherein the device (1) is configured to conduct an analysis using the timer (10), wherein the device (1) is configured to calibrate the timer (10) of the device (1) based on a reference time interval TR expiring on a timer (20) of an NTP server (2).