PNT Signal Validation via Virtual Time Source Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) signals are vulnerable to intentional and unintentional disruptions, such as jamming and spoofing, which can lead to inaccuracies in position and time determination, posing risks to critical infrastructure and safety of life applications.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that validate PNT signals by comparing the timing signal based on the PNT signal with a virtual time source, determining temporal alignment to assess signal validity, and detecting anomalies by sensing differences in 'top of second' indicators, thereby identifying and mitigating spoofing attempts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If PNT signals are used for positioning and timing, then position and time determination is enabled, but the system becomes vulnerable to jamming and spoofing disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a virtual time source as an intermediary reference that mediates between the PNT signal and the timing validation process. By comparing the PNT-based timing signal against this independent virtual time source, the system can detect spoofing attempts without directly confronting the harmful PNT signals, thus resolving the vulnerability while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the temporal alignment between the PNT-based timing signal and the virtual time source. When misalignment exceeds thresholds, the system generates anomaly indications and can disregard suspicious signals, creating a closed-loop feedback mechanism that dynamically adjusts to threats and maintains signal validity
2Measurement precision
If timing signals are validated by comparison with virtual time source, then signal accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The validation system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a virtual time source generator that creates the reference timing, a comparator that performs temporal alignment checks, and an anomaly detector that evaluates differences. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function with high precision while keeping the overall system manageable and modular
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs partial validation by focusing specifically on temporal alignment comparison rather than complete signal analysis. By concentrating validation efforts on the critical timing parameter rather than all signal characteristics, the system achieves high timing accuracy without the complexity of comprehensive signal verification
Data Source
AI summary
Some examples disclosed herein include a method. The method may include determining a relationship between a property of a position, navigation, and timing (PNT)-based timing signal and a property of a virtual time source. The method may also include determining a state of the PNT-based timing signal at least partially responsive to the determined relationship. The method may also include one or more of: providing the PNT-based timing signal at least partially responsive to determining that the state of the PNT-based timing signal corresponds to a first state, disregarding the PNT-based timing signal at least partially responsive to determining that the state of the timing signal corresponds to a second state, and providing an indication of the state of the PNT-based timing signal at least partially responsive to determining that the state of the timing signal corresponds to a second state. Related devices, systems and methods are also disclosed.