Universal Clock Synchronization for Multimodal Signal Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Scientific experiments face challenges in synchronizing and analyzing multimodal signals due to gaps in data, tracking method jumps, and lack of relation between tracking methods, leading to complex and difficult data relationships.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a universal clock to synchronize and track multimodal signals, eliminating the need for XY position as a tracking method, and using a common clock to generate a five-dimensional or seven-dimensional space for signal analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tracking methods are used for different signals, then each signal can be tracked independently, but data correlation becomes difficult and relationships become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a universal clock as a common time reference that synchronizes multiple different signals (e.g., stimulus, detection, scan, optics, magnetic, electric signals) throughout the scientific instrument. This single time reference serves multiple functions by providing a unified temporal framework for all signal types, eliminating the need for separate tracking methods while maintaining the ability to independently record each signal's timing characteristics.
2Loss of information
If XY position is used as a tracking method, then spatial information is captured, but tracking jumps occur due to environmental disturbances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a universal clock as an intermediary time reference that mediates between the physical XY position tracking and the digital signal recording system. Instead of directly using XY position as the primary tracking method, the system uses the universal clock's time stamps to correlate signals, while XY position data is recorded as additional contextual information. This intermediary time reference protects against tracking jumps caused by environmental disturbances affecting position measurements.
3Measurement precision
If separate timelines are used for different signals, then each signal's temporal characteristics are preserved, but data aggregation becomes a complex tangle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate signal timelines into a single unified time reference framework based on the universal clock. All signals (input and output) are timestamped using the same universal clock, allowing them to be aggregated and correlated in a straightforward manner. The unified timeline preserves the temporal precision of each individual signal while eliminating the complexity of managing and correlating multiple independent timelines.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments described herein relate to a process for multimodal signal acquisition, such as from a charged particle device or other scientific instrument, based on universal clock synchronization of the various multimodal signals. A system can comprise a memory that stores computer executable components; and a processor that executes the computer executable components stored in the memory, wherein the computer executable components comprise an identifying component that identifies a set of inputs and outputs of a scientific instrument, and a parameterizing component that tracks the inputs and outputs of the set based on a universal clock common to the inputs and outputs of the set.