Satellite Time Synchronization via Multi-Constellation Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing satellite-based synchronization systems for digital video transmissions, such as GPS, are unreliable due to weather issues and dependence on a single authority, leading to potential malfunctions and synchronization problems among receiving devices.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for disciplining time and frequency sources using a universally available infrastructure, which includes a reference frequency and time generator module, a reference satellite receiver and demodulator module, and a disciplined time and frequency generator module, forming a master loop that synchronizes multiple disciplined generators via a satellite path, ensuring continuous operation and high reliability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If GPS satellite system is used for synchronization, then time and frequency reference can be obtained independently of position, but the system fails during weather problems such as magnetic storms and is entirely dependent on Department of Defense

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesynchronization reliabilityVSAvoidindependence from single authority

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The invention segments the synchronization infrastructure into multiple independent satellite systems (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, COMPASS) rather than relying on a single GPS system. Each satellite system can independently provide time and frequency references, and the system can switch between them or combine them, thereby segmenting the dependency and improving both reliability and independence from any single authority.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the parameter of satellite system selection by dynamically choosing which satellite constellation to use based on availability and reliability conditions. The controller monitors signal quality and can switch between different satellite systems (GPS to Galileo, GLONASS, or COMPASS) when weather conditions or other factors affect one system, thereby adapting to changing conditions and maintaining synchronization reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple satellite systems are integrated, then independence from single authority is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindependence from single authorityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple satellite systems universally. It can process time and frequency references from GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, and COMPASS satellites using the same control algorithms and interface protocols. This universal design allows the system to support multiple satellite constellations without proportionally increasing complexity, as the controller performs the same functions regardless of which satellite system is being used.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The controller acts as an intermediary between the multiple satellite systems and the disciplined generators. It receives time and frequency references from any satellite system, processes them through unified algorithms, and outputs synchronized signals to the disciplined generators. This intermediary role simplifies the overall system architecture by providing a single point of integration rather than requiring separate processing paths for each satellite system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If satellite path is used for signal transmission, then universal availability is achieved, but propagation time varies causing synchronization delays

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuniversal availabilityVSAvoidpropagation time delay

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces mechanical timing methods with computational time correction. Instead of using fixed propagation time assumptions, the controller calculates the actual propagation time for each satellite signal based on the satellite's position, velocity, and the receiver's location. This computational approach substitutes for simpler mechanical timing systems and allows precise compensation for varying propagation delays through algorithmic correction rather than physical timing mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP2493094B1Method and system for synchronizing time and frequency sources, particularly for video data transmissions

Publication Date: 2013.11.27 SCREEN SERVICE BROADCASTING TECH

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AI summary

A method for synchronizing at least one master loop (10) with one or more disciplined generators (11), comprising the steps of: (a) sending (12) a reference time signal (30) from a master loop (10) to a satellite path (5); (b) receiving (14, 16), on the part of the master loop (10), the reference time signal (30) retransmitted by the satellite path (5) in order to use the signal (30); (c) receiving (15, 22), on the part of each one of the one or more disciplined generators (11), the reference time signal (30) retransmitted by the satellite path (5); (d) modifying the local time speed so as to synchronize the transmission of all the signals transmitted by the disciplined generators (11) to other users with the reference time signal (30) transmitted by the master loop (10) in step (a).