Reference Clock Synchronization for Autonomous Timestamp Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous and semi-autonomous machines face synchronization issues due to component failure, interference, network latency, and clock drift, leading to asynchronous processes that disrupt data processing and decision-making.
Innovation Solution
Implement a system that uses a reference clock to synchronize local clocks and sensors by analyzing timestamps for deviations, applying corrective actions to adjust timestamps and maintain synchronization, allowing continuous operation without disabling components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If components are disabled to prevent asynchronous errors, then system reliability is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to operational disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by continuously monitoring timestamps and detecting synchronization deviations before they cause system errors. The system proactively identifies when components are drifting out of sync and applies corrective timestamp adjustments preventively, rather than waiting for failures to occur and then disabling components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by continuously comparing timestamps from different components against a reference clock, detecting deviations, and applying corrective actions based on this feedback loop. This closed-loop system maintains synchronization without requiring component shutdown, thereby preserving operational continuity while ensuring reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If components operate independently with local clocks, then adaptability is improved, but synchronization accuracy deteriorates leading to asynchronous errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces timestamps as an intermediary mechanism that enables independent components with local clocks to maintain synchronization. Each component operates independently with its own clock but attaches timestamps to its data based on a shared reference clock, allowing the system to preserve component autonomy while ensuring synchronization accuracy through the intermediary timestamp mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
In various examples, a corrective operation may be performed based at least in part on detecting that at least one circuit is operating asynchronously with respect to a reference clock. An indication that at least one circuit operating asynchronously was detected may be generated. Upon detecting a circuit operating asynchronously, a corrective operation may be performed such that a component that receives data generated using the at least one circuit continues operating in view of the indication.