Pulsar Timing Synchronization for Power Grid Resilience
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The modern electric power grid relies on precise timing synchronization, but existing Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are susceptible to interference and lack redundancy, reducing system reliability.
Innovation Solution
A pulsar-based timing synchronization system using a pulsar signal receiver device that detects and processes pulse signals from celestial objects to discipline a local clock and generate accurate timing synchronization signals, which are then provided to power system devices and timing distribution networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GNSS is used as the main timing source, then timing synchronization accuracy is achieved, but system reliability deteriorates due to susceptibility to interference and lack of backup
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the timing source from satellite-based GNSS signals to pulsar-based celestial radio signals. Pulsars provide intrinsic stable rotation periods that can be used to discipline local clocks, achieving both high timing accuracy and improved reliability through space-based redundancy without dependency on vulnerable satellite infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces pulsar signal receiver devices as intermediary components that capture and process pulsar signals to generate timing synchronization outputs. These receivers act as mediators between the celestial pulsar sources and the power system timing infrastructure, providing a reliable backup timing source that can operate independently of GNSS satellites
2Measurement precision
If GNSS satellites transmit timing signals, then timing synchronization is provided, but signal strength deteriorates due to low power propagation making it susceptible to interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes pulsars as self-powered celestial timekeepers that emit intrinsic radio signals without requiring external energy transmission infrastructure. Pulsars naturally emit detectable radio pulses due to their rapid rotation and magnetic field, providing passive but powerful timing signals that eliminate the need for low-power active transmission from satellites
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from relying on artificial satellite-based timing signals to natural celestial pulsar signals, moving the timing source from the satellite orbit dimension to the deep space celestial dimension. This dimensional shift provides access to inherently powerful and interference-resistant radio signals from distant pulsars
Data Source
AI summary
A pulsar based timing synchronization method and system are disclosed. In one example, a method includes receiving, by a pulsar signal receiver device, a pulse signal emitted from one or more celestial objects and processing, by the pulsar signal receiver device, the pulse signal to discipline a local clock to determine an accurate time output. The method also includes generating, by the pulsar signal receiver device, a timing synchronization signal based on the determined accurate time output. The method further includes providing, by the pulsar signal receiver device, the timing synchronization signal to at least one of a local power system device and a timing distribution network server.