Pulsar Time Reference Update via Rotational Decay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing timekeeping methods rely on previously configured clocks, which can be inaccessible for devices far from a reference clock, leading to synchronization challenges.
Innovation Solution
A system that observes the rotational decay of pulsars to update a reference time, using a database to store pulsar information, sensors to collect electromagnetic radiation, and signal processing modules to generate and update the rotational rate, allowing for precise synchronization of timekeeping devices without human input or prior clock access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If previously configured clocks are used as reference time sources, then time synchronization can be achieved for devices near the reference clock, but devices far from the reference clock cannot access the reference time for synchronization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses pulsars as intermediary time reference sources that can be observed remotely. Instead of requiring direct access to a physical reference clock, the system uses pulsar radiation as an intermediary carrier of time reference information that can be received from any location with a pulsar in view, solving the accessibility problem for remote devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electronic reference clock system with an astronomical phenomenon-based system. By substituting the physical reference clock with pulsar observations, the system eliminates the need for devices to be physically near a reference clock, enabling universal access to time references regardless of location
2Stability of the object's composition
If the pulsar's rotational period is used as a frequency standard, then a stable time reference can be generated, but the rotational decay of the pulsar causes the reference time to drift over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the pulsar's rotational period and comparing it against predicted values. The system measures the actual rotational period, detects deviations caused by rotational decay, and uses this feedback information to calculate and apply corrections to the time reference, maintaining long-term accuracy despite the pulsar's natural decay
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-characterizing the pulsar's rotational decay rate and incorporating correction factors in advance. The system uses previously measured decay rates to predict future rotational period changes and pre-calculates the necessary time reference adjustments, allowing the system to compensate for decay before it significantly impacts accuracy
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate and up-to-date time references for devices, even in remote locations, by using the decaying rotational period of pulsars to synchronize timekeeping devices autonomously.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor configured to collect electromagnetic pulsar radiation from the one or more pulsars and generate sensor data
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a system for updating a reference time from a decaying rotational period of a pulsar. The system can include: a database (DB) configured to store: coordinates for a pulsar; a recorded rate of rotation (RROR) for the pulsar; a rotational rate of decay (RROD) function for the pulsar; and a recorded reference time for the pulsar. A sensor can be configured to collect electromagnetic pulsar radiation from the pulsar and generate sensor data. A signal processor module can be configured to receive the sensor data, generate an observed rate of rotation (OROR) signal profile, generate a current rate of rotation (CROR) for the pulsar from the OROR signal profile, and update the RROR from the CROR. A time processor module can be configured to receive the RROD function and the CROR, and to solve the RROD function to output a reference time of the pulsar.