RF GPS Emulator Synchronization via Optical Fiber and Simulation Timer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current simulation environments face challenges in precisely synchronizing RF GPS emulators with computers for generating accurate GPS signals, particularly due to limited electrical connection lengths and incompatible expansion card architectures, which restrict the distance and precision of signal transmission.
Innovation Solution
A method that utilizes a simulation timer and x_PPS signals to synchronize an RF GPS emulator, updating a counter for detected pulses and storing timer values to calculate a precise moment, allowing for real-time closed-loop synchronization and extended signal transmission distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electrical connections are used to synchronize computer and RF GPS emulator, then synchronization is achieved, but connection length is limited to a few meters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical fiber as an intermediary medium to transmit synchronization signals between the computer and RF GPS emulator. The optical fiber converts electrical synchronization signals into optical signals for transmission, enabling long-distance synchronization without the limitations of electrical connection length. This mediator allows precise timing synchronization to be maintained over distances of hundreds of meters or kilometers.
2Ease of operation
If expansion card architectures are used for signal transmission, then signal transmission is enabled, but device compatibility is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical expansion card architecture with an optical communication system. Instead of using electrical connectors and expansion cards that require specific physical interfaces, the system uses optical fibers with optical converters that can interface with various devices through standardized optical ports. This substitution eliminates compatibility restrictions imposed by specific expansion card architectures while maintaining signal transmission capabilities.
3Measurement precision
If precise position and time indications are transmitted, then GPS signal accuracy is improved, but synchronization complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary synchronization by establishing the optical communication link and timing reference before GPS signal transmission begins. The system pre-configures the optical fiber connection, calibrates timing offsets, and establishes the synchronization protocol in advance. This preliminary action simplifies the overall system complexity during operation, as the precise position and time indications can then be transmitted using pre-established timing references without requiring complex real-time synchronization adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for integration of a GPS emulator in a simulation environment includes operating a computer adapted for using a simulation timer and configured to receive a signal of x_PPS type. For each pulse detected on the x_PPS signal, a counter is updated with a number of detected pulses and a value of the simulation timer is stored. A given simulation time moment is evaluated according to the detected and counted number of pulses, a current value of the simulation timer, and the stored value of the simulation timer. A related device and computer readable medium are also disclosed.