UAV Timing Unit for Reference Time Sync in Weak Signal Flight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) face challenges in synchronizing their system time with a current reference time, especially in weak signal environments without GPS or ground control terminal connectivity, affecting task execution accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A timing apparatus mounted on the UAV, comprising a timing unit to generate and send the current reference time, and a power supply unit to ensure operation, including a rechargeable battery and charging control, along with a communication unit for external time updates and calibration, allowing independent synchronization of system time with the current reference time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the UAV obtains current reference time from GPS signal or ground control terminal, then the system time can be synchronized with current reference time, but in weak signal environment the current reference time cannot be obtained in time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-obtaining and storing reference time information before the UAV enters weak signal environments. The timing apparatus accumulates time data in advance through communication units (GPS, ground control terminal) and stores it locally, ensuring time synchronization capability is maintained even when external signals are unavailable during flight operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a timing apparatus is mounted in the UAV to generate current reference time independently, then time synchronization is achieved in weak signal environments, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The timing apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to reduce overall system complexity. The same timing unit and communication unit serve multiple purposes: the communication unit handles both time synchronization and general data communication, while the timing unit generates reference time for multiple onboard systems simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
3Reliability
If the timing unit generates current reference time independently, then the system time of UAV is synchronized with current reference time, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The timing apparatus implements periodic action by updating the current reference time at specific intervals rather than continuously. The timing unit generates and updates time information periodically, and the communication unit periodically checks for external time sources, reducing power consumption compared to continuous operation while maintaining adequate time synchronization accuracy for UAV operations.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application provides a timing apparatus mounted in an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The timing apparatus includes: a timing unit configured to generate a current reference time and to send the current reference time to at least one system in the UAV; and a power supply unit connected to the timing unit and configured to supply power to the timing unit. According to the timing apparatus provided in the present application, the current reference time is generated through the timing unit in the technical apparatus, and is provided to the system in the UAV, thereby synchronizing a system time of the UAV with the current reference time.