Pigeon Timing Clock Remote Synchronization via GPS Modem
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing timekeeping systems in racing pigeon racing require the clock to be physically brought to the clubhouse for synchronization and time correction, which is inconvenient and vulnerable to manipulation, as they rely on quartz-stabilized internal clocks and GPS times that can be tampered with.
Innovation Solution
A system that connects a GPS modem to the clock, enabling online transmission of arrival times and continuous time variance comparison with GPS and internet times, ensuring secure and precise timekeeping without the need to bring the clock to the clubhouse, using a microprocessor, RS485 interface, USB GPS module, GSM module, and GSM antenna for data transmission and encryption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the timing clock is physically brought to the clubhouse for synchronization, then time comparison and correction can be performed, but this process is inconvenient and vulnerable to manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The timing clock performs self-synchronization by automatically comparing its internal time with GPS time and internet time through a modem connection. The system autonomously transmits time data to a server and receives correction factors without requiring manual transport to the clubhouse, thereby maintaining security while improving convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
A modem and server act as intermediaries between the timing clock and the time reference sources (GPS and internet time). This intermediary system enables remote synchronization and time correction, eliminating the need for physical transport while maintaining reliable timekeeping through automated comparisons and corrections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If quartz-stabilized internal clock circuits are used, then the clock can operate independently, but long-term rate deviation occurs requiring frequent servicing
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously compares the internal quartz clock time with external reference times (GPS and internet time) and uses the time difference as feedback to correct the timing clock. This closed-loop feedback mechanism compensates for the long-term rate deviation of the quartz oscillator, maintaining high time accuracy while preserving independent operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The timing clock is pre-synchronized with master time in a controlled environment before the race, and continuous time comparisons are performed at regular intervals during operation. This preliminary and ongoing calibration prevents accumulation of time errors, maintaining precision without requiring frequent manual servicing.
3Measurement precision
If GPS time is used for timekeeping, then precise timing is achieved, but the GPS time can be manipulated through hardware modification
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses different time reference sources (GPS time and internet time) for different aspects of timekeeping. GPS time provides precise timing for race events, while internet time serves as a separate reference for verification. This differentiation of time source functions enables both precision and security.
Solution Approach 2:
A server acts as an intermediary that receives time data from both GPS and internet sources, compares them, and provides correction factors to the timing clock. This intermediary verification process detects discrepancies between the two independent time sources, preventing manipulation while maintaining the precision benefits of GPS timing.
Data Source
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AI summary
The time synchronization method involves determining arrival time of carrier pigeons returning from gambling flight using an electronic detector clock (1) without manipulations, where the current time of the detector clock is compared with a master time, e.g. radio time or global positioning system time. The difference from the time comparison of the time of the detector clock and the comparison time for the correction of the detector clock is used for determining the true arrival time. The arrival time and additional information are transferred to a server (14) during arrival of the pigeon.