Multi-Modality Sensor Waveform Synchronization via Reference Signal
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Solution Overview
Problem
In sensor networks, clock drift leads to synchronization issues among sensing devices, causing timing inaccuracies and making it challenging to align data from multiple sensors, which is critical for precise measurement and analysis, especially in applications like biometric monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for synchronizing sensors across different modalities using a reference signal that generates modality-specific synchronization signals, allowing emitters to produce waves detectable by sensors, which are then used to align waveforms and provide a time-synchronized output, even in ad-hoc networks with independent clocks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If each sensing device includes its own separate clock, then the sensing devices can operate independently, but the clocks drift with respect to each other causing timing inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary synchronization signal that acts as a mediator between independent clocks. This signal is transmitted through a communication channel to multiple sensing devices, allowing them to adjust their local clocks to match a reference time source, thereby resolving the timing drift issue while maintaining independent operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the timing differences between local clocks and the reference signal, then adjusting the local clocks based on this feedback. This closed-loop control ensures that timing accuracy is maintained despite independent clock operation
2Ease of operation
If clocks drift over time, then each sensor can maintain its own timing, but the time values become increasingly out of phase affecting data integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a reference signal and synchronization protocol before data collection begins. This pre-synchronization ensures that all sensing devices start with aligned timing, preventing the out-of-phase condition that would otherwise develop during operation
3Measurement precision
If a reference signal is used to synchronize multiple emitters across different modalities, then time alignment is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal reference signal that can be used across multiple modalities (acoustic, optical, electromagnetic). This single reference signal serves multiple functions by synchronizing emitters and sensors across different physical domains, reducing the need for separate synchronization systems for each modality
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to waveform synchronization in multi-modal sensor networks. An example method includes providing a reference signal to a translation circuit. The method also includes generating, by the translation circuit, (i) a first synchronization signal capable of exciting a first emitter to produce a first wave in a first modality and (ii) a second synchronization signal capable of exciting a second emitter to produce a second wave in a second modality, wherein a modality is a domain within a form of energy. The method further includes producing, by the first emitter, first wave in the first modality and, by the second emitter, the second wave in the second modality, wherein the first wave is substantially directed toward a first sensor capable of interacting with the first wave, and wherein the second wave substantially directed toward a second sensor capable of interacting with the second wave.