Terrestrial Timing Servers for GNSS-Resilient Network Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current precision timing systems, reliant on global navigation satellite systems, are vulnerable to interference and temporary signal loss, which can lead to network degradation and service termination, especially as wireless networks and IoT devices increase in prevalence, necessitating a reliable and precise terrestrial timing solution.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for generating and propagating a digital chronographic reference signal using specially configured processors to produce averaged time intervals, which are transmitted over a network to adjust device clocks, utilizing a distributed database for secure storage and verification of time signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS or GNSS systems are used for precision timing, then timing signals can be obtained globally, but the system becomes vulnerable to interference, hacking, and signal loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces terrestrial timing servers as intermediary devices that generate and distribute timing signals independently of satellite systems. These servers act as mediators between atomic time standards and network devices, providing a reliable local timing reference that does not depend on vulnerable satellite signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the timing system into multiple independent terrestrial timing servers distributed across different locations. Each server operates independently, and the network can select from multiple sources, thereby eliminating single-point failure and reducing vulnerability to widespread interference.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If GPS timing signals are used, then network timing can be maintained, but service termination occurs when signals are lost or degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements prior cushioning by pre-deploying multiple terrestrial timing servers in geographically distributed locations before signal loss occurs. When satellite signals are lost, the system can immediately switch to pre-positioned terrestrial sources, cushioning against service termination and maintaining network operation continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of timing signal source from satellite-based to terrestrial-based. This parameter change transforms the system from one vulnerable to signal loss in specific geographic areas to one with locally available, reliable timing sources that ensure continuous network operation.
3Reliability
If multiple timing sources are deployed to improve reliability, then interference risks are mitigated, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing terrestrial timing servers that can serve multiple functions: generating timing signals, distributing them to multiple network devices, and operating as backup sources. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components for each timing source, thereby managing system complexity while maintaining high reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Precision digital chronography based on detected changes in state of a processor is described. The changes in state may be detected by another processor and an averaged time interval generated. A signal corresponding to the averaged time interval may be communicated to a distributed database and propagated to remote systems. Devices associated with the remote systems may adjust or set a device clock in accordance with the averaged time interval.