Receiving Apparatus Time Metadata Processing for Leap Second Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in handling discontinuous time information due to leap seconds and summer time changes, particularly in broadcasting systems that require synchronization between sending and receiving apparatuses, as they often fail to efficiently process multiple time formats and handle time zone changes effectively.
Innovation Solution
A receiving and sending apparatus configuration that processes metadata for time information, including flags for leap second insertion/deletion and counters, to correct time information accordingly, ensuring synchronization across various time formats and zones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional time information processing is used in broadcasting systems, then synchronization between sending and receiving apparatuses can be maintained, but the system fails to handle discontinuous time information due to leap seconds and summer time changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different time information processing modes (normal mode, leap second mode, summer time mode) based on the actual time conditions. The receiving apparatus detects time discontinuities and adjusts its processing accordingly, making the system adaptable to various time scenarios while maintaining synchronization reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the processing parameters for time information based on the detected time conditions. When leap seconds or summer time changes are detected, the system modifies how time stamps are interpreted and processed, allowing it to handle discontinuous time information while maintaining overall synchronization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple time formats are processed simultaneously, then comprehensive time information handling is achieved, but the processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments time information processing into distinct modes or states (normal time processing, leap second processing, summer time processing). Each segment handles a specific time scenario with dedicated processing logic, which simplifies the overall complexity compared to a single unified processing approach that must handle all scenarios simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary time information processing layer that sits between the raw time stamps and the application logic. This intermediary layer normalizes and reconciles different time formats and discontinuities, providing a unified interface to applications while handling the complexity of multiple time formats internally.
3Measurement precision
If time information is continuously adjusted for leap seconds and summer time, then accurate timekeeping is maintained, but processing interruptions may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection and preparation for anticipated time discontinuities (leap seconds, summer time changes). By detecting these events in advance or preparing processing rules beforehand, the system can smoothly adjust time information without causing processing interruptions or service disruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements cushioning mechanisms in the form of buffer time periods or transition zones that accommodate time discontinuities. These pre-prepared transition periods allow the system to absorb and process time jumps without affecting the continuous operation of broadcasting services, maintaining both accuracy and uninterrupted service.
Data Source
AI summary
A receiving apparatus is provided. The receiving apparatus includes circuitry configured to receive reference time information and metadata including information for executing processing related to the reference time information. The circuitry is configured to execute processing related to the reference time information based on the metadata. The metadata includes a first offset value between the reference time information and a discontinuous time, a second offset value between the discontinuous time and a local time, and a date and time at which a change in a daylight savings time (DST) status is to occur. The local time is determined based on the reference time information and the metadata.