Satellite Synchronization for Distributed Electromagnetic Instruments

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for synchronizing distributed electromagnetic instruments, which rely on GPS for timing and lack flexibility in adjusting measurement times due to fixed settings, are inefficient and difficult to implement in remote areas with limited communication infrastructure, leading to suboptimal data quality and operational inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

A distributed electromagnetic instrument synchronization system utilizing satellite communication and navigation, such as the Beidou satellite, for real-time location positioning, time synchronization, and frequency adjustments through temperature-compensated crystal oscillators, enabling timely adjustments and high-quality data acquisition.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If GPS timing is used for synchronization, then time synchronization between transmitter and receivers is achieved, but the measurement time table cannot be changed or adjusted once operation has been started

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime synchronizationVSAvoidadjustability of measurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic time table that can be adjusted in real-time during field operations. The receiver feeds back signal quality information to the transmitter, which then dynamically modifies the measurement time table based on actual geological conditions, transforming the static GPS-based timing system into an adaptive system that maintains synchronization while allowing operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system establishes a feedback loop where the receiver evaluates signal quality and transmits this information back to the transmitter via satellite communication. The transmitter uses this feedback to adjust the measurement time table, creating a closed-loop control system that balances synchronization requirements with adaptability to changing field conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If measurement time is set to be long enough to obtain complete data, then data quality is improved, but operation efficiency decreases due to inability to adjust parameters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata qualityVSAvoidoperation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement time table transitions from a fixed predetermined schedule to a dynamic adjustable schedule. The system can extend measurement times for specific frequency signals when signal quality indicates need for more data, or reduce times when conditions are favorable, optimizing both data quality and operational efficiency through real-time adaptation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes the time parameter in the measurement time table based on signal quality feedback. Different frequency signals can have their measurement times independently adjusted, allowing the system to optimize data acquisition for each signal based on actual field conditions rather than using a conservative fixed time for all signals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If manual communication is used in remote areas, then no additional communication infrastructure is needed, but communication difficulty increases and operational efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeployment simplicityVSAvoidcommunication ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The satellite communication system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides timing synchronization, enables real-time data communication between transmitter and receiver, and allows for dynamic parameter adjustment. This multi-functional approach replaces both GPS timing and separate communication systems, simplifying the overall system while improving operational capability in remote areas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The satellite acts as an intermediary communication medium between the transmitter and receiver in remote field areas. By using satellite communication, the system overcomes the limitation of no local communication infrastructure, enabling real-time feedback and parameter adjustment without requiring ground-based communication networks or manual communication methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10168432B2Distributed electromagnetic instrument synchronization system and method
Publication Date: 2019.01.01 INSTITUTE OF GEOLOGY AND GEOPHYSICS CHINESE ACADEMY OF SCIENCES
  • US10168432B2 patent drawing
  • US10168432B2 patent drawing
  • US10168432B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A distributed electromagnetic method synchronization system and method involving a satellite communication and navigation system. The method includes the following steps: the transmitter and the receiver establish connection with the satellite respectively to realize the position and time synchronization; the transmitter and the receiver acquire the second-pulse-signal, and according to the second-pulse-signal to adjust their own temperature compensation crystal, so that the frequency reaches the preset value; in the field of operation, the transmitter and receiver through the satellite mutual communication, timely adjustment of the operation process. In the above-mentioned way, the communication function can be set in one place to facilitate the timely adjustment of the data acquisition process so as to ensure the quality of the collected data and improve the efficiency of the field operation.