Multi-Sensor Data Synchronization Using Timing Validation and Interpolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The lack of synchronization of data from multiple sensors in complex systems, particularly when sensors of different types are used by various processes, leads to performance and accuracy issues.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that includes a synchronization circuitry system to generate synchronized output data sets by determining a reference sample, verifying timing validity of other samples, identifying the closest-in-time data samples, and using interpolation to synchronize data from multiple sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If data from multiple sensors are used by different processes independently, then the system can support multiple functions and processes, but the data synchronization becomes complicated and performance/accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sensor data processing by creating separate synchronization pipelines for different process types (e.g., high-rate processes like image stabilization vs. low-rate processes like activity classification). Each process receives synchronized data appropriate to its timing requirements, resolving the conflict between supporting multiple processes and maintaining synchronization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary synchronization mechanism that acts as a mediator between multiple sensors and multiple processes. This intermediary layer performs the complex timing validation and data selection, allowing independent processes to access synchronized sensor data without direct interference between them.
2Productivity
If data sampling rates differ between sensors, then each sensor can operate at its optimal rate, but finding matching data samples becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing sensor data samples in buffers with their timestamp information before synchronization is needed. This allows the synchronization algorithm to efficiently retrieve and match samples from different sensors without real-time complexity, as the data preparation has already been performed in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter representation by using timestamp differences and relative timing parameters instead of absolute timing values. This transformation simplifies the matching process between sensors with different sampling rates, as the algorithm works with time offsets rather than absolute timestamps.
3Measurement precision
If strict timing synchronization is implemented, then data accuracy improves, but processing time and computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by implementing timing validation only for the minimum necessary precision required by each process. Instead of enforcing strict synchronization for all data, the system performs partial timing checks that are sufficient for the specific application requirements, reducing unnecessary computational overhead.
4Adaptability or versatility
If sensor data is processed independently by different processes, then each process can optimize for its specific function, but overall system performance deteriorates due to lack of coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal synchronization framework that serves multiple processes simultaneously. The synchronization mechanism is designed to be multi-functional, supporting both high-rate processes (image stabilization) and low-rate processes (activity classification) through a common data structure and timing validation approach.
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, a device comprises a memory, which, in operation, stores data samples associated with a plurality of data sensors, and circuitry, coupled to the memory, wherein the circuitry, in operation, generates synchronized output data sets associated with the plurality of data sensors. Generating a synchronized output data set includes: determining a reference sample associated with a sensor of the plurality of sensors; verifying a timing validity of a data sample associated with another sensor of the plurality of sensors; identifying a closest-in-time data sample associated with the another sensor of the plurality of sensors with respect to the reference sample; and generating the synchronized output data set based on interpolation.