Sensor Time Synchronization Using Propagation Delay Classification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional time synchronization methods for sensors struggle to accurately account for positional relationships among multiple sensors, leading to difficulties in determining whether time deviations are due to clock deviations or changes in propagation time caused by changes in sensor positioning.
Innovation Solution
A detection apparatus and method that includes an internal clock, an oscillator unit, an oscillation receiver unit, a measurement unit, a determination unit, and a correction unit. This apparatus measures the time from oscillation generation to detection, determines a mode based on this time, and decides whether to correct the internal clock based on a reference time, thereby synchronizing times while considering the positional relationship among sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional time synchronization methods are used without considering positional relationships, then the synchronization process is simple, but it cannot accurately distinguish between clock deviations and propagation time changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary classification of time deviation causes by comparing measured propagation time with expected values based on positional relationships. This preliminary action distinguishes between clock deviations and propagation time changes before applying correction, preventing unnecessary corrections and improving synchronization accuracy without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary classification mechanism that acts as a mediator between time deviation detection and correction. By inserting a determination step that analyzes whether deviation originates from clock issues or positional changes, the system achieves accurate synchronization while maintaining manageable complexity through structured decision-making
2Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are rearranged during installation, then the system adapts to different installation scenarios, but time deviation occurs due to changes in propagation time
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its time synchronization approach based on detected propagation time characteristics. By continuously monitoring whether measured times exceed expected thresholds and adapting correction decisions accordingly, the system maintains reliability across different sensor arrangements while preserving installation flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (correction application decisions) based on detected propagation time variations. When propagation time changes due to repositioning are detected through threshold comparisons, the system adjusts its synchronization strategy to account for these parameter changes, maintaining reliability regardless of sensor arrangement
3Reliability
If time deviation correction is always applied, then clock synchronization is maintained, but unnecessary corrections are made when deviation is due to positional changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and analyzes propagation time information separately from clock synchronization correction. By taking out the propagation time measurement and comparing it against expected values, the system identifies when deviation originates from positional changes rather than clock issues, preventing unnecessary corrections and preserving positional relationship information
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively synchronizes times among sensors by distinguishing between clock deviations and positional-induced time deviations, ensuring accurate detection of abnormal oscillations and maintaining high precision in identifying the source of oscillations.
Implementation Method 1
an oscillator unit that generates oscillation every time a temporal condition is met; an oscillation receiver unit that detects oscillation
Data Source
AI summary
A detection apparatus according to one embodiment includes an internal clock, an oscillator unit that generates oscillation every time a temporal condition is met, an oscillation receiver unit that detects oscillation, a measurement unit that measures a time from when the oscillator unit generates the oscillation to when the oscillation receiver unit detects the oscillation, a determination unit that determines a mode based on whether a time that is measured by the measurement unit is longer than a predetermined interval time, and a correction unit that determines whether to perform correction of deviation of the internal clock based on a reference time when it is determined that the mode is a specific mode, and corrects the internal clock when determining that the correction is performed.