JP6953735B2 - Information processing equipment, information processing system, information processing method and information processing program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a technique for correcting a recording time attached by an external device.

For example, in a wearable device equipped with an acceleration sensor, a time stamp is attached to the value of acceleration measured when detecting the movement of a person. Then, a data collecting device may collect time-stamped measurement messages to estimate human behavior.

For example, when one person wears multiple wearable devices and tries to observe the interlocking of arms and legs, if the time stamps attached to each wearable device do not meet the same watch standard, the behavior should be estimated correctly. I can't.

When trying to match the time stamp given by the wearable device with the standard of the system clock in the data collection device, not only the error of the local clock of the wearable device but also the error generated by the data collection device becomes an obstacle.

JP-A-2010-164346 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2007-027985 JP-A-2007-258800

An object of the present invention is, on the one hand, to more accurately change the recording time set by an external device to the estimated time based on the own clock.

The information processing apparatus according to one aspect sets the recording time for each of the recording times of the data including the recording time of the first clock reference that arrives with a fluctuation delay after being transmitted by the external device (A). For each of the first calculation unit that calculates the estimated time revised by the clock reference and (B) the recording time, the estimated time that the recording time is revised and the reading of the second clock reference that the data including the recording time has arrived. It has a second calculation unit that calculates the time difference from the time, and (C) a third calculation unit that calculates the parameters used to calculate the estimated time based on the minimum time difference in each of the two or more periods. ..

On one side, it is possible to more accurately change the recorded time set by an external device to the estimated time based on its own clock.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a sequence example in an external device. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a sequence example in the data collection device. FIG. 3 is a time chart related to reading a measurement message with a time stamp. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a period. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the relationship between each time. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the minimum time difference. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the correction of the deviation time. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the estimated elapsed time. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing steps of operation in the data acquisition device. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an outline of the second and subsequent steps of time estimation. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an outline of the update step. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an outline of the first step of time estimation. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a module configuration example of the data collection device. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a main processing (A) flow. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a first initial setting processing flow. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an acquisition process (A) flow. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a first calculation processing flow. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a second calculation processing flow. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an update processing flow. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a transition example of the second time and the estimated time. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a transition example of the time difference and the residence delay. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a transition example of the second time and the estimated time. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a transition example of the time difference and the residence delay. FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a transition example of the second time and the estimated time. FIG. 25 is a diagram showing the relationship between the parameters. FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an outline of processing to which the estimation parameters are applied. FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an outline of processing when the estimation parameters are appropriate. FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an outline of processing when the estimation parameters are inappropriate. FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an outline of shortening the period. FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a module configuration example of the data collection device. FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of a time table. FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of a period type table. FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an example of a number-of-times table. FIG. 34 is a diagram showing a main processing (B) flow. FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an acquisition process (B) flow. FIG. 36 is a diagram showing an initial processing (A) flow. FIG. 37 is a diagram showing a flow of calculation processing (A) of estimated parameters. FIG. 38 is a diagram showing an initial processing (A) flow. FIG. 39 is a diagram showing a flow of the suitability determination process (A) of the estimation parameter. FIG. 40 is a diagram showing a flow of conformity determination processing (B) for estimation parameters. FIG. 41 is a diagram showing an outline of the suitability determination process (B) of the estimation parameter. FIG. 42 is a diagram showing a continuous processing (A) flow. FIG. 43 is a diagram showing a continuous processing (A) flow. FIG. 44 is a diagram showing a shortening determination processing flow. FIG. 45 is a diagram showing a flow of calculation processing (B) of estimated parameters. FIG. 46 is a diagram showing a convergence test processing flow. FIG. 47 is a diagram showing a flow of calculation processing (B) of estimated parameters. FIG. 48 is a diagram showing an outline of the fourth embodiment. FIG. 49 is a diagram showing an acquisition process (C) flow. FIG. 50 is a diagram showing an initial processing (B) flow. FIG. 51 is a diagram showing an initial processing (B) flow. FIG. 52 is a diagram showing a continuous processing (B) flow. FIG. 53 is a diagram showing a continuous processing (B) flow. FIG. 54 is a diagram showing an outline of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 55 is a diagram showing an outline of the seventh embodiment. FIG. 56 is a functional block diagram of the computer.

[Embodiment 1]
The external device 101 is, for example, a device that is attached to a user's arm or foot to detect acceleration. The hardware of the external device 101 is based on the prior art. The external device 101 includes, for example, a simple clock (clock counter), a processor, a memory, a sensor, and the like.

FIG. 1 shows an example of a sequence in the external device 101. The external device 101 includes a measuring unit 103, an additional unit 105, a local clock 107, and a transmitting unit 109. In this example, it is assumed that the local clock 107 is not necessarily highly accurate due to the use of an inexpensive reference oscillator. For example, the time advance / delay occurs due to the frequency deviation of the crystal oscillator, and the frequency deviation of such an oscillator fluctuates under the influence of temperature and internal voltage. In addition, a time error in which the advance / delay of the time is accumulated and a time error due to not having the function of adjusting the time when the device is started occur.

The measuring unit 103 measures using, for example, an acceleration sensor (S121). When the additional unit 105 obtains the measurement data, the additional unit 105 acquires the first time (represented by the parameter tl) from the local clock 107. Then, the addition unit 105 adds a time stamp (first time) to the measurement data (S123). As described above, since the first time includes a local error, it does not always indicate the correct measurement time.

The transmission unit 109 transmits a time-stamped measurement message to the data collection device 201 (S125). In this example, it is assumed that the message is transmitted by using short-range wireless means. In this example, the fixed delay associated with communication (the minimum delay that occurs even if the communication environment and the operating state of the device are ideal) can be ignored or can be corrected uniformly. In addition, the fluctuation delay associated with communication can be included in the retention delay described later.

FIG. 2 shows a sequence example in the data collection device 201. The data collection device 201 is a computer such as a node-type personal computer, for example. The data collection device 201 may be a portable device such as a smartphone. The data collection device 201 includes an operating system 203, an application program 205, a receiver 207, a buffer 209, and a system clock 211. It is assumed that the system clock 211 has high accuracy and that the second time (represented by the parameter ts) indicated by the system clock 211 coincides with the absolute time. However, when the data of a plurality of external devices 101 are collected by one data collecting device 201 and the purpose is only to synchronize the time between these data, the accuracy of the system clock 211 may be low.

The operating system 203 has released the allocation of the CPU resource to the application program 205 (S221). When the receiving unit 207 receives the time-stamped measurement message in this state (S223), the time-stamped measurement message is stored in the buffer 209.

Since the application program 205 is not allocated CPU resources, it cannot read the time-stamped measurement message. After that, when the operating system 203 allocates the CPU resource to the application program 205 (S225), the application program 205 reads the time-stamped measurement message from the buffer 209. The application program 205 further acquires the second time from the system clock 211 and associates the second time with the time-stamped measurement message (S227). The time from when the time-stamped measurement message is stored in the buffer 209 until it is read by the application program 205 and associated with the second time corresponds to a residence delay.

Supplementary information on retention delay. FIG. 3 shows a time chart related to reading a measurement message with a time stamp. The time-stamped measurement message stored in the buffer 209 between the allocation of the CPU resource (S301) and the release of the allocation (S303) is immediately read by the application program 205. Therefore, if there is a sufficient opportunity to allocate the CPU resource and an opportunity to receive the measurement message with a time stamp, there is no correlation between the two, so that an opportunity to have a sufficiently small retention delay can be obtained. On the other hand, the time-stamped measurement message stored in the buffer 209 in a state where the CPU resource is not allocated is retained. Then, when the CPU resource is allocated to the application program 205 (S305), the CPU resources are read all at once. Thus, the retention delay is not uniform.

In the present embodiment, processing is performed by setting a period. FIG. 4 shows an example of the period. The length of the period (parameter) so that CPU resources are allocated immediately after receiving the time-stamped measurement message at least once in each period, and fluctuations in the temperature and internal voltage of the external device 101 can be regarded as minute within that period. (Represented by T) is determined. The period to be processed in the following description is referred to as the current period and is represented _{by the symbol C j.} The period immediately before the current period is called the previous period and is represented by the _{symbol C j-1.}

FIG. 5 shows the relationship between each time. From the left side, the first time, the estimated time (represented by the parameter te), the true measurement time (represented by the parameter t), and the second time are shown. Time shall elapse downward. The true measurement time is a time that has been revised based on the data collection device 201 by eliminating the local error included in the first time. The estimated time is the time when the application program 205 estimates the true measured time based on the first time and the second time. The difference between the estimated time and the true measured time is called the estimation error. The initial estimated time is not always close to the true measured time.

In the present embodiment, the estimation error approaches 0 in the process of repeating the step of calculating the estimated time. In this step, the time difference between the estimated time and the second time (expressed by the parameter dt) is calculated.

FIG. 6 shows an example when there is no retention delay. If there is no retention delay, the time difference corresponds to the estimation error. Further, the time difference at this time indicates the minimum value among the time differences calculated in the relevant period (in this example, the previous period C _{j-1 is used for convenience of explanation).} Therefore, if the minimum time difference within the period ( _{expressed by the parameter dt min} ) is specified, the estimation error at that moment is obtained.

_{Assuming that the previous period C j-1} shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 has shifted to the current period C _j , the correction of the deviation time will be described with reference to FIG. At the time of moving to the current period C _j , the minimum time difference _{of the previous period C j-1 is specified.} Here, assuming that the frequency deviation of the local clock is 0 (or equal to the frequency deviation of the system clock) in the previous period C _j-1 and the current period C _{j, the specified minimum time difference is the current period C. Since it} is equal to the deviation time in j, the minimum time difference in _{the previous period C j-1} is defined as the deviation time ( _{expressed by the parameter tg j ) used in the current period C j.} Then, when the estimated time is calculated in the current period C _j , a correction is made to eliminate the deviation time. In this way, under the above assumption, the estimation error becomes almost zero. Although the frequency deviation of the local clock is not actually 0, it can be considered that the above assumption holds by repeating the correction of the rate of change of the local error and this process described later. _{Further, it is assumed that the deviation time tg j} shown in FIG. 7 is a negative value.

The error specified in the previous period C _j-1 is eliminated as described above. On the other hand, due to the frequency deviation of the local clock, the local error may increase or decrease at a constant rate with the passage of time. In the present embodiment, the amount of change in such an error is also corrected. The frequency deviation of the local clock, that is, the rate of change of this error varies depending on the temperature and internal voltage of the external device 101, but this variation is slow, and the length T of the period is sufficient for this rate of variation. Since it is set to be short, the effect is small in this process. As shown in FIG. 8, the i-th estimation time is represented in the current period C _j (indicated by a parameter te _1.) 1 st estimated time at the i-th estimated elapsed time in the current period C _j (parameter dte _i .) Is added.

i-th estimated elapsed time, dividing the first time difference between the first time and the first time of the first time of the i-th in the current period C _j (indicated by a parameter dtl.) The correction ratio (1 + df) Demanded by. 1 / (1 + df) is the rate of change of the local error, and df is the frequency deviation of the local clock.

FIG. 9 shows the steps of operation in the data collection device 201. In the initial setting step of the first period, the deviation time (tg ₁ ) and the frequency deviation (df ₁ ) are tentatively set. In this example, the shift time (tg ₁ ) and frequency deviation (df ₁ ) are used in _{the n 1 time estimation of the first period.}

In the update step of the second period, the deviation time (tg ₂ ) and the frequency deviation (df ₂ ) are updated to reflect the calculation result in the first period. In this example, deviation time at n ₂ times the time estimate of the second period (tg ₂₎ and the frequency deviation (df ₂₎ is used. _{If the error between the deviation time (tg 1} ) and the frequency deviation (df ₁ ) used in the tentatively set first period is expected to be large, the frequency deviation used in the second period is the df used in the first period. ₁ may be used as it is, and the frequency deviation may be updated from the third period.

Then, after the third period, the operation is performed in the same steps as in the case of the second period. The contents of the processing are partially different between the first step of time estimation and the second and subsequent steps of time estimation.

Next, an outline of each step will be described. For convenience, first, FIG. 10 is used to show an outline of the second and subsequent steps of time estimation. As explained with reference to FIG. 8, according to the equation of the i-th estimated elapsed time dte _i = (i-th first time tl _i -first first time tl ₁ ) / (1 + frequency deviation df _j ). The i-th estimated elapsed time dte _i is obtained.

Then, the i-th _{estimated time te i} is obtained according to the formula of the i-th _{estimated time te i} = the first estimated time te ₁ + the i-th estimated elapsed time tte _i -deviation time tg _j.

Moreover, pulling the i-th second time ts _i from the i-th estimation time te _i, obtaining the i-th time difference dt _i. The i-th time difference dt _i is compared with the smallest time difference candidate in the i-1st time, and the smaller time difference is retained as the minimum time difference candidate. That is, the minimum time difference among the time difference dt up to the i-th time is maintained.

FIG. 11 shows an outline of the update step. Above the broken line, the calculation result in _{the previous period C j-1 is shown.} Below the broken line, the calculation result in _{the current period C j is shown.}

First, the candidate for the minimum time difference determined and held for each step of the previous period C _{j-1 is determined as the minimum time difference dt min} at the update step. This is equal to the minimum time difference among the time differences dt _{1 to dt n} obtained in the previous period C _j-1. Then, the minimum time difference dt _min is set to the deviation time tg _j used in the current period C _j.

Moreover, the frequency deviation df _j is determined in the current period C _j according to the following equation (1).

df _j-1 is the frequency deviation in the previous period C _{j-1 , tg j} is the shift time used in the current period C _j , and T is the length of the period. Here, the minimum time difference dt _min second time at the time of seeking and held as the minimum difference generation time t _{Min_j,} using the _{t min_j-1} at t _{Min_j} before period C _j-1 in the current period C _j Therefore, the value of the following equation (2) may be used instead of T in the equation (1).
t _{min_j} −t _{min_j-1} (2)

The derivation of this equation (1) will be described. It is assumed that the deviation time tg _j is caused by an error included in the frequency deviation df _j-1 in the previous period or a change in the frequency deviation df. Assuming that the deviation time tg _j occurs during the length T of the period, the expansion _{/ contraction rate of the measurement time in the local clock is expressed by (T + tg j} ) / T. Then, the reciprocal T / (T + tg _j ) of the expansion / contraction rate coincides with the rate of change of the frequency. Above wherein the rate of change of frequency using the frequency deviation _{(1 + df j) / (} 1 + df j-1) and expressed for, from the equation _{(1 + df j) / (} 1 + df j-1) = T / (T + tg j) Is derived.

FIG. 12 shows an outline of the first step of time estimation. Above the broken line, the calculation result in _{the previous period C j-1 is shown.} Below the broken line, the calculation result in _{the current period C j is shown.}

1st estimated elapsed time dte ₁ = (1st first time tl 1 in the current period C _{j − 1st time tl 1 in the} previous period C _{j- 1} ) / (1 + frequency deviation in the _{current period C j)} According to the equation of df _j ), the first estimated elapsed time dte ₁ is obtained. Here, before the place of the period C _j-1 at the first first time tl _1, and using holds the first time when determining the minimum time difference dt _min before the period C _j-1 Is also good.

The first estimated time te ₁ = previous period C _j-1 during the first time estimate te ₁ + 1 -th estimated elapsed time in the current period C _j dte ₁ in the current period C _j - used in the current period C _j According to the equation of the deviation time tg _j , the first estimated time te _{1 in the current period C j} is obtained. Here, before the place of the period C _j-1 during the first time estimate te _1, may be used minimum time difference generation time _{t min_j-1} in the previous period C _j-1.

Further, the first time difference dt ₁ is _{obtained by subtracting the first} second time ts 1 from the first estimated time te ₁ in the current period C _j. The first time when the first first time or the minimum time difference dt _min in the current period C _j is calculated, and the first estimated time or the minimum time difference occurrence time are retained until at least the update step in the next period. NS. This is the end of the outline of the present embodiment.

FIG. 13 shows an example of a module configuration of the data collection device 201. The operating system 203, the receiving unit 207, the buffer 209, and the system clock 211 described with reference to FIG. 2 are omitted.

The application program 205 includes a program for realizing the first setting unit 1301, the first acquisition unit 1303, the first calculation unit 1305, the second calculation unit 1307, the specific unit 1309, and the update unit 1311. In FIG. 13, the program for realizing each part is represented as each part. Each part is realized by executing the program for the part on the processor. The data collection device 201 further includes a parameter storage unit 1321 and a table storage unit 1323. The parameter storage unit 1321 stores each of the above-mentioned parameters. The table storage unit 1323 stores a table that associates the first time, the second time, the estimated time, and the measurement data. However, the first time and the second time may be omitted.

FIG. 14 shows the main processing (A) flow. The first setting unit 1301 executes the first initial setting process (S1401). The first initial setting process corresponds to the initial setting step. Details of the first initial setting process will be described later with reference to FIG.

The first acquisition unit 1303 executes the acquisition process (S1403). In the acquisition process, the first time and the second time are acquired. Details of the acquisition process will be described later with reference to FIG.

The first calculation unit 1305 and the second calculation unit 1307 execute the first calculation process (S1405). The first calculation process corresponds to the first step of time estimation. The details of the first calculation process will be described later with reference to FIG.

The first acquisition unit 1303 executes the acquisition process (S1407). The acquisition process in S1407 is the same as in the case of S1403.

The first calculation unit 1305 and the second calculation unit 1307 execute the second calculation process (S1409). The second calculation process corresponds to the second and subsequent steps of time estimation. The details of the second calculation process will be described later with reference to FIG.

The update unit 1311 determines whether or not _{the second time has passed the current period C j (S1411).} If the second time is determined not to be passed the current period C _j returns to the process shown in S1407, the processing described above is repeated. Here, in the determination of S1411, the estimated time may be used instead of the second time.

On the other hand, _{when it is determined that the second time has passed the current period C j} , the update unit 1311 switches the period (S1413). Then, the specific unit 1309 and the update unit 1311 execute the update process (S1415). The update process corresponds to the update step. Details of the update process will be described later with reference to FIG.

When the update process is completed, the process returns to the process shown in S1403, and the above-mentioned process is repeated.

FIG. 15 shows the first initial setting processing flow. The first setting unit 1301 sets the length T of the period (S1501). For example, the length T of the period may be a predetermined value or may be set by a user operation.

The first setting unit 1301 sets _{0 to the initial value df 1} of the frequency deviation (S1503). Further, the first setting unit 1301 _{sets 0 to the initial value tg 1} of the deviation time (S1505). Then, the process returns to the main process (A).

FIG. 16 shows the acquisition process (A) flow. The first acquisition unit 1303 acquires a time-stamped measurement message from the buffer 209 (S1601). The first acquisition unit 1303 acquires the second time ts _i from the system clock 211 (S1603). Further, the first acquisition unit 1303 _{reads the first time tl i} from the measurement message (S1605). Then, the process returns to the main process (A).

FIG. 17 shows the first calculation processing flow. First calculator 1305 subtracts the first time tl ₁ the first time in the previous period C _j-1 from the first time tl ₁ the first time in the current period C _j, determining a first time difference dtl ₁ (S1701 ). The first calculation unit 1305 divides the first time difference dtl ₁ by the correction ratio (1 + df _j ) to obtain the estimated elapsed time dte ₁ (S1703). The first calculation unit 1305 adds the estimated elapsed time dte _{1 to the first} estimated time te _{1 in the previous period C j-1} , subtracts the deviation time tg _j, and subtracts the first estimated time in the current period C _j. Find te ₁ (S1705). Furthermore, the second calculation unit 1307, the current period C _j from first estimated time te ₁ in subtracting the second time ts ₁ of the first in the current period C _j, the time difference dt of the first in the current period C _{j 1} is obtained (S1707). Then, the process returns to the main process (A).

FIG. 18 shows a second calculation processing flow. First calculator 1305 subtracts the first time tl _i of i-th in the current period C _j from the first first time tl ₁ of the current period C _j, determining a first time difference dtl _i (S1801). The first calculation unit 1305 divides the first time difference dtl _i by the correction ratio (1 + df _j ) to obtain the estimated elapsed time dte _i (S1803). First calculator 1305, the estimated time te ₁ for the first time in the current period C _j, the estimated elapsed time dte _i addition, by subtracting the delay times tg _j used in the current period C _j, i in the current period C _j The estimated time of the second time te _i is obtained (S1805). The second calculating unit 1307 subtracts the second time ts _i of i-th in the current period C _j from the estimated time te _i of i-th in the current period C _j, the time difference dt _i of i-th in the current period C _j Find (S1807). Then, the process returns to the main process (A).

FIG. 19 shows an update processing flow. The identification unit 1309 specifies _{the minimum time difference dt min} among the time difference dt in _{the previous period C j-1} . Then, the update unit 1311 sets the minimum time difference dt _min to the deviation time tg _j used in the current period C _j (S1901). The update unit 1311 updates the frequency deviation df _j according to the above equation (1) (S1903). Then, the process returns to the main process (A).

According to the present embodiment, the first time set by the external device 101 can be more accurately changed to the time based on the own system clock. That is, the local error can be reduced without being affected by the processing delay in the data collecting device 201.

As another device, when the absolute value of the minimum time difference dt _min exceeds the threshold value, it may be determined that the reliability of the estimated time in the previous period is low. In this case, there is a possibility that the residence delay did not become 0 within the period.

Further, the length T of the period may be adjusted based on the minimum time difference dt _{min in the past.}

Further, it may be decided whether or not to perform the update process based on the minimum time difference dt _{min in the past.} This is because it is possible that the premise that the residence delay becomes 0 within the period is not established.

Further, the length T of the period may be determined based on the temperature of the external device 101, the internal voltage, or the frequency of the clock counter. It can be expected that a more appropriate period length T will be set.

[Embodiment 2]
The outline of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 20 to 29. In FIG. 20, the estimated time te in the P period is shown by a broken line. The solid line indicates the second time ts. The horizontal axis represents the first time tl. The estimated time te is calculated according to the formula _{te = a P} × tl + b _P. The estimation parameters (a _P , b _P ) are applied to the calculation of the estimated time te in the P period.

FIG. 21 shows the time difference dt in the P period. The time difference dt is the time obtained by subtracting the estimated time te from the second time ts. The time difference dt at the second time ts shown at the point 2001 in FIG. 20 does not include the residence delay as shown in FIG. This state has been described above with reference to FIG. Also in this embodiment, the estimated time te is calculated based on the time point at which the time difference dt becomes the minimum.

In FIG. 22, the estimated time te in the P + 1 period is shown by a broken line. The solid line is an extension of the straight line indicated _{by the formula te = a P + 1} × tl + b _{P + 1} for calculating the estimated time te in the P + 1 period to the P period. The estimated time te in the P period shown in FIG. 20 is not updated. The estimated parameters (a _{P + 1} , b _{P + 1} ) are applied to the calculation of the estimated time te in the P + 1 th period.

FIG. 23 shows the time difference dt in the P + 1 th period. The time difference dt based on the calculation formula te = a _{P + 1} × tl + b _{P + 1 is also shown for the P period.} Both the time difference dt at the second time ts shown at the point 2001 of FIG. 22 and the time difference dt at the second time ts shown at the point 2201 do not include the retention delay as shown in FIG. 23. In this embodiment, an approximate expression corresponding to a straight line connecting these two points is used.

In FIG. 24, the estimated time te in the P + 2 period is shown by a broken line. The solid line is an extension of the straight line indicated _{by the formula te = a P + 2} × tl + b _{P + 2} for calculating the estimated time te in the second P + 2 period to the point 2001. The estimated time te of the P period shown in FIG. 20 and the estimated time te of the P + 1 period shown in FIG. 22 are not updated. The estimation parameters (a _{P + 2} , b _{P + 2} ) are applied to the calculation of the estimated time te in the second P + 2 period. _{The estimation parameters (a P + 1} , b _{P + 1} ) applied to the calculation of the estimated time te in the P + 1 period at the end of the P + 1 period are referred to as the current estimation parameters. _{The estimation parameters (a P + 2} , b _{P + 2} ) applied to the calculation of the estimated time te in the second P + 2 period are called new estimation parameters. The new estimation parameters are obtained by correcting the current estimation parameters.

The relationship between the parameters is organized with reference to FIG. 25. The time difference dt is calculated based on the second time ts and the estimated time te. In this embodiment, attention is paid to the minimum time difference dt in each of the two periods. A new estimation parameter is calculated by correcting the current estimation parameter based on these minimum time difference dt and its appearance time. Then, the first time in the next period is converted into the estimated time by the new estimation parameter. This cycle is repeated.

With reference to FIG. 26, the relationship between the period and each time is organized. FIG. 26 assumes that at the end of the P + 1 period, a new estimation parameter applied to the calculation of the estimated time te in the P + 2 period is calculated. When calculating the new estimation parameter, the time data of the P period and the time data of the P + 1 period are used. Specifically, the second time ts of the P period and the P + 1 period and the estimated time te of the P period and the P + 1 period are used. However, the estimated time te in the P period is a value based on the current estimation parameter applied to the calculation of the estimated time te in the P + 1 period. The new estimation parameters are applied at any time to the first time tl in the second P + 2 period, and the estimated time is obtained immediately.

As shown in FIG. 27, the relationship between the period described in FIG. 26 and each time is repeated as the period elapses. FIG. 27 assumes that each estimation parameter is appropriate. If each estimation parameter is correct, the length of each period does not change.

However, the estimated parameters are not always correct. If the minimum time difference dt in a period includes a time corresponding to the residence delay, the estimation parameters calculated based on that period do not lead to the correct estimated time. In the present embodiment, when the new estimation parameter is the same as or similar to the current estimation parameter, it is determined that the new estimation parameter is appropriate. If the estimated time is correct, the estimated time should be continuous and the estimated parameters underlying the estimated time should also be approximated.

As shown in FIG. 28, when the new estimation parameter is dissimilar to the current estimation parameter, the period underlying the new estimation parameter is extended. In this example, the later P + 2 period of the P + 1 period and the P + 2 period, which is the basis of the new estimation parameter, is extended. If the period is lengthened in this way, it is more likely that the minimum time difference in the period does not include the residence delay. Here, it is a premise that the current estimation parameters are appropriate.

However, the error includes not only the residence delay but also a component due to the frequency deviation in the local clock 107. If the true measurement time t is represented in a graph whose horizontal axis is the first time tl, a curve may be shown due to fluctuations in frequency deviation. Therefore, if the period to which the above-mentioned approximation formula is applied is too long, the error between the estimated time te and the true measurement time t may increase in a part of the period. Therefore, considering the possibility that a shorter-term frequency deviation fluctuation will occur, there is a problem if the once lengthened period remains as it is.

In the example shown in FIG. 29, when the new estimation parameter obtained at the end of the Qth period is appropriate and the predetermined shortening condition is not satisfied, the length of the Q + 1 period is the same as that of the Qth period. Be the same. On the other hand, when the new estimation parameter obtained at the end of the Q + 1 period is appropriate, the length of the Q + 2 period is made shorter than that of the Q + 1 period if a predetermined shortening condition is satisfied. The shortening conditions will be described later, but for example, when there is a high possibility that it is judged to be appropriate, the next period will be shortened. This is the end of the outline of the present embodiment.

FIG. 30 shows a module configuration example of the data collection device 201. The application program 205 includes the second setting unit 3001, the control unit 3003, the second acquisition unit 3005, the third calculation unit 3007, the fourth calculation unit 3009, the fifth calculation unit 3010, the determination unit 3011, the change unit 3013, and the shortening unit 3015. Has. Further, the data collecting device 201 includes a parameter storage unit 3021, a time table storage unit 3023, a period type storage unit 3025, and a number of times storage unit 3027.

The second setting unit 3001 sets initial values for various internal parameters. The control unit 3003 controls the operation of the application program 205. The second acquisition unit 3005 acquires a measurement message with a time stamp from the buffer 209. The third calculation unit 3007 calculates the estimated time te. The fourth calculation unit 3009 calculates the estimation parameter. The fifth calculation unit 3010 calculates the time difference dt. The determination unit 3011 determines the suitability of the estimation parameter. The change unit 3013 changes the period type. Specifically, the change unit 3013 extends the period. The shortening unit 3015 shortens the next period.

The parameter storage unit 3021 stores various internal parameters. The time table storage unit 3023 stores the time table. The time table will be described later with reference to FIG. 31. The period type storage unit 3025 stores the period type table. The period type table will be described later with reference to FIG. The number-of-times storage unit 3027 stores the number-of-times table. The number table will be described later with reference to FIG. 33.

The second setting unit 3001, the control unit 3003, the second acquisition unit 3005, the third calculation unit 3007, the fourth calculation unit 3009, the fifth calculation unit 3010, the determination unit 3011, the change unit 3013, and the shortening unit 3015 are hardware. It is realized by using a hardware resource (for example, FIG. 56) and a program that causes a processor to execute the processing described below.

The parameter storage unit 3021, the time table storage unit 3023, the period type storage unit 3025, and the number of times storage unit 3027 described above are realized by using hardware resources (for example, FIG. 56).

FIG. 31 shows an example of a time table. The time table in this example is provided with a record corresponding to the time-stamped measurement message. The record of the time table has a field for storing the first time, a field for storing the second time, a field for storing the estimated time, and a field for storing the measurement data.

FIG. 32 shows an example of a period type table. The period type table in this example has records corresponding to the period type. The record of the period type table has a field in which the period type ID is set and a field in which the period length is set.

The period type ID identifies the period type. The period length is the length of the period in the period type. It is assumed that the period type table is already prepared at the time of starting the main processing. In this example, M period types are set.

FIG. 33 shows an example of the number-of-times table. The count table in this example has records corresponding to the period type. The record of the number table has a field in which the period type ID is stored, a field in which the appropriate number of times is stored, and a field in which the inappropriate number of times is stored.

The period type ID specifies the period type to be counted. The appropriate number of times is the number of times determined to be appropriate in the suitability determination of the estimation parameter based on the period of the period type. The number of unsuitable times is the number of times that is determined to be unsuitable in the suitability determination of the estimation parameter based on the period of the period type.

In the present embodiment, the main process (B) is executed instead of the main process (A). FIG. 34 shows the main processing (B) flow. The second setting unit 3001 sets the start time (S3401). The start time is used as a reference for each period. The start time is, for example, the current time. However, the second setting unit 3001 may omit the setting of the start time.

The second setting unit 3001 executes the second initial setting process (S3403). In the second initial setting process, each parameter is initialized. In this example, the new estimation parameter a _new is set to 1. 0 is set for _{b new of the} new estimation parameter. 1 is set for _{a cur of the} current estimation parameter. 0 is set for _{b cur of the} current estimation parameter. -1 is set for the comprehensive indexes e [0], e [1] and e [2]. -1 is a control value used for determining that the third time or later is performed in S4607 of FIG. 46, which will be described later. 0 is set for each appropriate number of times cl and each inappropriate number of times cu. 1 is set in the parameter i of the period type ID. Details of each parameter will be described later.

The control unit 3003 activates the acquisition process (S3405). The acquisition process acquires a measurement message with a time stamp from the buffer 209 and sets a new record in the time table. The acquisition process shows an example of operating in parallel with the main process (B) in consideration of shortening the processing delay until the correction result of the recording time is determined, but it is not necessary to operate in parallel.

In the present embodiment, the acquisition process (B) is started. FIG. 35 shows the acquisition process (B) flow. The second acquisition unit 3005 acquires a measurement message with a time stamp from the buffer 209 (S3501). The second acquisition unit 3005 adds a new record to the time table (S3503). The second acquisition unit 3005 acquires the second time ts from the system clock 211 and stores it in a new record (S3505). The second acquisition unit 3005 reads the first time tl from the measurement message and stores it in a new record (S3507). The third calculation unit 3007 calculates _{the estimated time te using the current estimation parameters (a cur} , b _cur ) and stores it in a new record (S3509). The second acquisition unit 3005 reads the measurement data from the measurement message and stores it in a new record (S3511). Then, the process returns to the process shown in S3501 and the above-mentioned process is repeated.

Returning to the description of FIG. 34. The control unit 3003 executes the initial process (S3407). In the initial processing, processing related to the first period to the third period is performed.

In the present embodiment, the initial process (A) is executed. FIG. 36 shows the initial processing (A) flow. The control unit 3003 determines whether or not the latest first time tl stored in the time table in the acquisition process (B) has reached the end time of the second period (S3601). If it is determined that the latest first time tl has not reached the end time of the second period, the process shown in S3601 is repeated. The end time is obtained by adding the length of the period to the start time.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the latest first time tl has reached the end time of the second period, the fourth calculation unit 3009 executes the calculation process of the estimation parameters related to the first period and the second period (S3603). ).

In the present embodiment, the estimation parameter calculation process (A) is executed. FIG. 37 shows a flow of calculation processing (A) of estimated parameters. The fourth calculation unit 3009 sets the value of the current estimation parameter (a _cur , b _cur ) to the new estimation parameter (a _new , b _new ) (S3701). The value set at this time is the correction target.

The fourth calculation unit 3009 identifies one record whose first time tl is included in the target period (the target period includes two periods, that is, the previous period and the later period) (S3703). For example, the fourth calculation unit 3009 specifies records in order.

The third calculation unit 3007 calculates the estimated time te using _{the new estimation parameters (a new} , b _{new) (S3705).} The fifth calculation unit 3010 calculates the time difference dt by subtracting the estimated time te from the second time ts (S3707). The time difference dt is retained while the estimation parameter calculation process (A) is being performed. The fourth calculation unit 3009 determines whether or not there is an unprocessed record (S3709). When it is determined that there is an unprocessed record, the process returns to the process shown in S3703 and the above-described process is repeated.

On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no unprocessed record, the fourth calculation unit 3009 specifies the minimum time difference dt _min in the previous period and the first time tl _{A in} which the minimum time difference dt _{min appears.} (S3711). Assuming that this minimum time difference dt _min is the estimation error e _A , the subsequent processing is performed.

Further, the fourth calculation unit 3009 _{specifies the minimum time difference dt min} in the later period and the first time tl _{B at} which the minimum time difference dt _min appears (S3713). Subsequent processing is performed assuming that this minimum time difference dt _min is the estimation error e _B.

Then, the fourth calculation unit 3009 performs a _new estimation parameter (a _new ) according to the equations of a new = a _new + (e _{B −} e _A ) / (tl _{B − tl A ) and b new} = b _new + e _B. , B _new ) is updated (S3715). When the estimation parameter calculation process (A) is completed, the process returns to the caller's process.

Returning to the description of FIG. The control unit 3003 stores the values (a _new , b _new ) calculated in S3603 as the current estimation parameters (a _cur , b _cur ) (S3605).

The control unit 3003 determines whether or not the latest first time tl stored in the time table in the acquisition process (B) has reached the end time of the third period (S3607). If it is determined that the latest first time tl has not reached the end time of the third period, the process shown in S3607 is repeated.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the latest first time tl has reached the end time of the third period, the fourth calculation unit 3009 executes the calculation processing of the estimation parameters related to the second period and the third period (S3609). ). The estimated parameters for the second period and the third period have not yet been determined at the stage when the processing of S3609 is completed. The process proceeds to the process of S3801 shown in FIG. 38 via the terminal A.

The determination unit 3011 executes an estimation parameter suitability determination process (S3801). In the estimation parameter suitability determination process, it is determined whether or not the new estimation parameter (in the initial process, the estimation parameter related to the second period and the third period) is appropriate. The suitability determination process for the estimation parameters will be described later with reference to FIGS. 39 to 41.

The control unit 3003 branches the process depending on whether or not the new estimation parameters related to the second period and the third period are appropriate (S3803). If the new estimation parameters for the second period and the third period are not appropriate, that is, if the new estimation parameters are inappropriate, the control unit 3003 controls the period type of the third period (parameter of the period type ID: i). Add 1 to the inappropriate number of times cu [i] for (S3805).

The change unit 3013 determines whether or not the period type (parameter of the period type ID: i) of the first to third periods is the longest type (period type ID: M) (S3807).

When it is determined that the period type of the third period is not the longest type, the changing unit 3013 changes to the period type one step longer (S3809). That is, the change unit 3013 adds 1 to the parameter i of the period type ID. Then, the process returns to the process of S3603 shown in FIG. 36 via the terminal B.

When it is determined in S3807 that the period type of the third period is the longest type, the changing unit 3013 determines whether or not the longest type is continuous a predetermined number of times (S3811). When the longest type continues a predetermined number of times, the changing unit 3013 determines that an error has occurred (S3813). If an error occurs, the initial process (A) is finished and the caller returns to the main process (B).

If the longest type is not yet continuous a predetermined number of times, the process returns to the process of S3603 shown in FIG. 36 as it is via the terminal B.

The process returns to the description of the process shown in S3803. When the new estimation parameters for the second period and the third period are appropriate, the control unit 3003 adds 1 to the appropriate number of times cl [i] for the period type (parameter type i of the period type ID) of the third period. (S3815).

Further, the control unit 3003 sets _{the value of the new estimation parameter (a new} , b _new ) to the current estimation parameter (a _cur , b _cur ) (S3817). When the initial process (A) is completed, the process returns to the caller's main process (B).

In this embodiment, two examples of the suitability determination process of the estimation parameter are shown. FIG. 39 shows the flow of the estimation parameter suitability determination process (A). Determination unit 3011 determines whether the absolute value of the difference of the slope parameter is below the threshold r _a (S3901). More specifically, the determination unit 3011 determines from the new slope parameter a _{new new,} whether the absolute value of the value obtained by subtracting the current slope parameter a _cur falls below the threshold r _a. If the absolute value is not less than the threshold value r _a, the determination unit 3011 determines the new estimated parameter (a _new, b _new) is unsuitable (S3907). On the other hand, if the absolute value is below the threshold r _a proceeds to processing of S3903.

The determination unit 3011 determines whether or not the absolute value of the difference between the intercept parameters _{is below the threshold value r b (S3903).} Specifically, the determination unit 3011 determines whether or not the absolute value of the value obtained by subtracting the current intercept parameter b _{cur from the new intercept parameter b new is below the threshold value r b.} If the absolute value is _{not less than the threshold value r b} , the determination unit 3011 determines that the new estimation parameters (a _new , b _new ) are inappropriate (S3907). On the other hand, when the absolute value _{falls below the threshold value r b} , the determination unit 3011 determines that the new estimation parameters (a _new , b _new ) are appropriate (S3905). When the suitability determination process of the estimated parameter is completed, the process returns to the caller's process.

Here, an example of performing suitability judgment based on the absolute value of the difference of the slope parameter and the absolute value of the difference of the intercept parameter is shown, but the process of S3901 is omitted and the suitability judgment is made based on the absolute value of the difference of the intercept parameter. May be done. Alternatively, the process of S3903 may be omitted, and the suitability determination may be performed based on the absolute value of the difference of the slope parameters.

Another example relating to the suitability determination process of the estimation parameter will be described. FIG. 40 shows the flow of the estimation parameter suitability determination process (B). _{The determination unit 3011 specifies the boundary time tl s} between the j-1th period and the jth period (S4001). Hereinafter, the suitability determination process (B) of the estimation parameter will be supplemented with reference to FIG. 41. As shown in FIG. 41, the boundary time tl _s corresponds to the end time of the j-1 period and also corresponds to the start time of the jth period.

_{The determination unit 3011 calculates the estimated time tes_cur} corresponding to the boundary time tl _s using the current estimation parameters (a _cur , b _cur ) (S4003). Further, the determination unit 3011 _{calculates the estimated time tes_new} corresponding to the boundary time tl _{s by using the new estimation parameters (a new} , b _new ) (S4005).

The determination unit 3011 determines whether or not the absolute value of the difference in estimated time is below the threshold value (S4007). Specifically, the determination unit 3011 is the absolute value _obtained by subtracting the estimated time tes_cur based on the current estimated parameters (a _cur , b _cur ) from the estimated time _{tes_new based on the new estimated parameters (a new} , b _new). Determine if the value is _{below the threshold r s.}

When it is determined that the absolute value of the difference in the estimated time is below the threshold value, the determination unit 3011 determines that the new estimation parameters (a _new , b _new ) are appropriate (S4009). This is because if the new estimation parameters are appropriate, the estimated time _{tes_new} and the estimated time _{tes_cur} should be close to each other as shown in FIG. 41.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the absolute value of the difference in the estimated time is not less than the threshold value, the determination unit 3011 determines that the new estimation parameters (a _new , b _new ) are inappropriate (S4011). When the suitability determination process (B) of the estimated parameter is completed, the process returns to the caller's process.

Returning to the description of FIG. 34. The control unit 3003 branches the process depending on whether or not an error has occurred in the initial process of S3407 (S3409). If an error occurs in the initial processing, the second setting unit 3001 resets the start time (S3411). For example, set the current time as the start time. Then, the process returns to the process shown in S3403, and the above-mentioned process is repeated. If the acquisition process is continued, the activation of the acquisition process is omitted.

On the other hand, if no error has occurred in the initial processing, the control unit 3003 executes the continuous processing (S3413). In the continuous processing, processing related to the fourth period and thereafter is performed.

In the present embodiment, the continuous process (A) is executed. FIG. 42 shows the continuous processing (A) flow. Since it starts from the process related to the fourth period, the control unit 3003 sets the parameter j of the period number to 4 (S4201).

The control unit 3003 determines whether or not the latest first time tl stored in the time table in the acquisition process (B) has reached the end time of the jth period (S4203). When it is determined that the latest first time tl has not reached the end time of the jth period, the process shown in S4203 is repeated.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the latest first time tl has reached the end time of the jth period, the control unit 3003 executes the calculation processing of the estimation parameters related to the j-1th period and the jth period (S4205). ). Next, the determination unit 3011 executes the suitability determination process of the estimation parameter (S4207). Then, the process proceeds to the process of S4301 shown in FIG. 43 via the terminal C. The calculation process of the estimated parameter and the suitability determination process of the estimated parameter are as described above.

The explanation will move to FIG. 43. The processing of S4301 to S4315 is the same as the processing of S3803 to S3817 shown in FIG. 38. Following the process of S4315, the shortening unit 3015 executes the shortening determination process (S4319). In the shortening determination process, it is determined whether or not the period length is shortened.

FIG. 44 shows a shortening determination processing flow. The shortening unit 3015 calculates the appropriate index W [i] based on the appropriate number of times cl [i] and the inappropriate number of times cu [i] of the period type ID [i] (S4401). Specifically, the shortening unit 3015 calculates the appropriate index W [i] according to the equation W [i] = (cl [i] + first constant) / (cu [i] + second constant). The first constant is a real number. The second constant is also a real number. The period type ID [i] indicates the current period type.

The shortening unit 3015 determines whether or not the appropriate index W [i] _{exceeds the threshold value r w (S4403).} When the appropriate index W [i] _{exceeds the threshold value r w} , the shortening unit 3015 determines that the period length is shortened (S4405). On the other hand, when the appropriate index W [i] _{does not exceed the threshold value r w} , the shortening unit 3015 determines that the period length is not shortened (S4407). When the shortening determination process is completed, the process returns to the caller's process.

Returning to the description of FIG. 43. The shortening unit 3015 branches the process depending on whether or not it is determined that the period is shortened (S4321). If it is determined that the period is shortened, the shortening unit 3015 changes to the period type that is one step shorter (S4323). That is, the shortening unit 3015 subtracts 1 from the parameter i of the period type ID. On the other hand, if it is determined that the period is not shortened, the process proceeds to S4325 as it is.

The control unit 3003 determines whether or not to terminate (S4325). The control unit 3003 determines, for example, whether or not there is an end instruction.

If it is determined that the process does not end, the control unit 3003 adds 1 to the period number j (S4327). Then, the process returns to the process of S4203 shown in FIG. 42 via the terminal E. On the other hand, when it is determined that the process is completed, the continuous process (A) is completed and the process returns to the caller's main process (B).

Returning to the description of FIG. 34. The control unit 3003 branches the processing depending on whether or not an error has occurred in the continuous processing of S3413 (S3415). When an error occurs in the continuous processing, the second setting unit 3001 resets the start time (S3411). For example, set the current time as the start time. Then, the process returns to the process shown in S3403, and the above-mentioned process is repeated. If the acquisition process is continued, the activation of the acquisition process is omitted.

On the other hand, if no error has occurred in the continuous processing, the main processing (B) is terminated. The control unit 3003 may stop the acquisition process before the main process (B) is completed.

According to the present embodiment, the recording time set by the external device can be more accurately changed to the estimated time based on the own clock.

Moreover, since the new estimation parameter is applied to the next period, the estimation time can be obtained at an early timing.

Further, when the new estimation parameter is inappropriate, the period is extended and the new estimation parameter is recalculated, so that the miscalculation of the estimation time can be corrected.

Further, since the next period is shortened when the shortening condition is satisfied, it is easy to eliminate the estimation error due to the fluctuation of the frequency deviation in the local clock 107.

[Embodiment 3]
In this embodiment, an example of performing iteration in the calculation process of the estimation parameter will be described.

In the present embodiment, the estimation parameter calculation process (B) is executed instead of the estimation parameter calculation process (A). FIG. 45 shows a flow of calculation processing (B) of estimated parameters. The processing of S4501 to S4513 is the same as the processing of S3701 to S3713 shown in FIG. 37.

The fourth calculation unit 3009 calculates the total index e [0] of the estimation error according to the formula _{of the total index e [0] = e A} ² + e _B ^{2 (S4515).} Then, the fourth calculation unit 3009 executes the convergence determination process (S4517). In the convergence judgment process, the estimation parameters converged based on the total index e [0] of the current estimation error, the total index e [1] of the previous estimation error, and the total index e [2] of the estimation error two times before. Judge whether or not.

FIG. 46 shows a convergence test processing flow. The fourth calculation unit 3009 determines whether or not the total index e [0] this time is 0 (S4601). When it is determined that the total index e [0] this time is 0, the fourth calculation unit 3009 determines that the estimation parameters have converged (S4603). Then, the convergence test processing is completed, and the process returns to the calculation process (B) of the estimation parameter of the caller.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the current comprehensive index e [0] is not 0, does the fourth calculation unit 3009 match the current comprehensive index e [0] with the previous comprehensive index e [1]? Whether or not it is determined (S4605). When it is determined that the current comprehensive index e [0] and the previous comprehensive index e [1] match, the fourth calculation unit 3009 determines that the estimation parameters have converged (S4603). Then, the convergence test processing is completed, and the process returns to the calculation process (B) of the estimation parameter of the caller.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the current comprehensive index e [0] and the previous comprehensive index e [1] do not match, the fourth calculation unit 3009 determines whether or not the comprehensive index does not decrease after the third time. Is determined (S4607). In this example, the fourth calculation unit 3009 uses the condition (e [2] ≤ e [1] and e [1] ≥ e [0] and e [1] ≠ -1 and e [2] ≠ -1). Determine if the expression is satisfied. In this example, the initial values of e [1] and e [2] are -1, and the formula (e [1] ≠ -1 and e [2] ≠ -1) is the third and subsequent times. Corresponds to the condition of.

When it is determined that the comprehensive index does not decrease after the third time, the fourth calculation unit 3009 determines that the estimation parameters have converged (S4603). Then, the convergence test processing is completed, and the process returns to the calculation process (B) of the estimation parameter of the caller.

On the other hand, if it is not determined that the total index does not decrease after the third time, the fourth calculation unit 3009 determines that the estimation parameters have not converged (S4609). Then, the convergence test processing is completed, and the process returns to the calculation process (B) of the estimation parameter of the caller.

Returning to the description of FIG. 45. When the convergence test processing in S4517 is completed, the process proceeds to the processing of S4701 shown in FIG. 47 via the terminal F.

The sum of squared differences (a _new −a _cur ) ² + (b _new −b _cur ) ² with respect to the estimated parameters may be used as the total index e.

The explanation moves to FIG. 47. The fourth calculation unit 3009 branches the process depending on whether or not it is determined that the estimation parameters have converged (S4701). If the new estimated parameter is determined not to converge, the fourth calculation section _{3009, a new = a new + (} e B -e A) / formula (tl _B -tl _A) and b _{new new} = b _{The new estimation parameters (a new} , b _new ) are updated according to the equation of new + e _B (S4703). Further, the fourth calculation unit 3009 shifts the previous comprehensive index to the parameter of the previous comprehensive index two times (S4705). Further, the fourth calculation unit 3009 shifts the current comprehensive index to the parameter of the previous comprehensive index (S4707). The process returns to the process of S4503 shown in FIG. 45 via the terminal G.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the new estimation parameters have converged, the fourth calculation unit 3009 initializes the comprehensive index two times before and the previous comprehensive index (S4709). In this example, -1 is set for e [1] and e [2].

According to this embodiment, the iteration enhances the accuracy of the estimation parameters.

[Embodiment 4]
In the above-described embodiment, an example of applying the new estimation parameter to the future first time tl is shown, but in the present embodiment, an example of applying the new estimation parameter to the known first time tl will be described.

As shown in FIG. 48, the new estimation parameter is applied to the later period of the period that is the basis for calculating the new estimation parameter. For example, the estimated parameters calculated based on the time data in the P + 1 period and the P + 2 period are applied retroactively to the first time included in the P + 2 period. In this way, the accuracy of the estimated time is improved as compared with the cases of the second and third embodiments.

In the present embodiment, the acquisition process (C) is executed instead of the acquisition process (B). FIG. 49 shows the acquisition process (C) flow. In the acquisition process (C), the estimated time te is not calculated. The processing of S4901 to S4907 is the same as the processing of S3501 to S3507 shown in FIG. 35. Further, the processing of S4909 is the same as the processing of S3511 shown in FIG. 35.

In the present embodiment, the initial process (B) is executed instead of the initial process (A). FIG. 50 shows the initial processing (B) flow. The processing of S5001 to S5009 is the same as the processing of S3601 to S3609 shown in FIG. When the process of S5009 is completed, the process proceeds to the process of S5101 shown in FIG. 51 via the terminal H.

The description will move to FIG. 51. The processing of S5101 to S5115 is the same as the processing of S3801 to S3815 shown in FIG. 38.

The third calculation unit 3007 calculates the estimated time te in the first period and the second period using _{the current estimation parameters (a cur} , b _{cur) (S5117).} The third calculation unit 3007 stores the calculated estimated time te in the record of the time table. The third calculation unit 3007 calculates the estimated time te in the third period using _{the new estimation parameters (a new} , b _{new) (S5119).} The third calculation unit 3007 stores the calculated estimated time te in the record of the time table.

The process of S5121 is the same as the process of S3817 shown in FIG. 38. When the initial process (B) is completed, the process returns to the caller's main process (B).

In the present embodiment, the continuous processing (B) is executed instead of the continuous processing (A). FIG. 52 shows a continuous processing (B) flow. The processing of S5201 to S5207 is the same as the processing of S4201 to S4207 shown in FIG. 42. The process proceeds to the process of S5301 shown in FIG. 53 via the terminal J.

The description will move to FIG. 53. The processing of S5301 to S5315 is the same as the processing of S4301 to S4315 shown in FIG. 43.

The third calculation unit 3007 calculates the estimated time te in the jth period using _{the new estimation parameters (a new} , b _{new) (S5319).} The third calculation unit 3007 stores the calculated estimated time te in the record of the time table.

The processing of S5321 to S5329 is the same as the processing of S4319 to S4327 shown in FIG. 43. When the continuous processing (B) is completed, the process returns to the main processing (B) of the caller.

According to this embodiment, the accuracy of the estimated time is further improved.

[Embodiment 5]
In the suitability judgment process of the estimated parameter, the difference squared sum (a _new −a _cur ) ² + (b _new −b _cur ) ² related to the estimated parameter is calculated, and when the value falls below the threshold value, the determination unit 3011 , The new estimation parameters (a _new , b _new ) may be determined to be appropriate. Further, when the value does not fall below the threshold value, the determination unit 3011 may determine that the new estimation parameters (a _new , b _new ) are inappropriate.

[Embodiment 6]
In the above-described embodiment, an example of adjusting for a short period within a range not affected by the residence delay has been shown, but adjustment may be made for a long period within a range not affected by the frequency deviation.

In this case, for example, start from the longest period. Then, when the estimation parameter is inappropriate, the period is shortened and the estimation parameter is recalculated. Further, when the estimation parameters are appropriate, the next period is adjusted to be longer if the predetermined extension conditions are satisfied.

[Embodiment 7]
In the above-described embodiment, an example is shown in which the rear period of the two periods on which the current estimation parameter is based and the front period of the two periods on which the new estimation parameter is based overlap. However, the two periods on which the current estimation parameters are based and the two periods on which the new estimation parameters are based may not overlap.

In the example shown in FIG. 54, at the end of the P + 3 period, the P + 2 period and the P + 3 period, which are the basis of the current estimation parameter, and the P + 2 period and the P + 3 period, which are the basis of the new estimation parameter, are Not duplicate. In this example, the new estimation parameters are applied in the subsequent P + 4 and P + 5 periods.

In the example shown in FIG. 55, as in the case of FIG. 54, at the end of the P + 3 period, the P period and the P + 1 period which became the basis of the current estimation parameter and the first which became the basis of the new estimation parameter. The P + 2 period and the P + 3 period do not overlap. In this example, the new estimation parameters are applied in the known P + 2 and P + 3 periods.

The examples shown in the second embodiment, the third embodiment and 54 are suitable for real-time processing. On the other hand, the examples shown in the fourth embodiment and 55 have some aspects suitable for batch processing.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the functional block configuration described above may not match the program module configuration.

Further, the configuration of each storage area described above is an example, and does not have to be the configuration as described above. Further, also in the processing flow, if the processing result does not change, the order of the processing may be changed or a plurality of processing may be executed in parallel.

The data collecting device 201 described above is a computer device, and as shown in FIG. 56, a memory 2501, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 2503, a hard disk drive (HDD) 2505, and a display device. The display control unit 2507 connected to the 2509, the drive device 2513 for the removable disk 2511, the input device 2515, and the communication control unit 2517 for connecting to the network are connected by a bus 2519. The operating system (OS: Operating System) and the application program for executing the processing in this embodiment are stored in the HDD 2505, and are read from the HDD 2505 to the memory 2501 when executed by the CPU 2503. The CPU 2503 controls the display control unit 2507, the communication control unit 2517, and the drive device 2513 according to the processing contents of the application program to perform a predetermined operation. Further, although the data in the process of processing is mainly stored in the memory 2501, it may be stored in the HDD 2505. In the embodiment of the present invention, the application program for performing the above-described processing is stored and distributed on the computer-readable removable disk 2511 and installed from the drive device 2513 to the HDD 2505. It may be installed on the HDD 2505 via a network such as the Internet and a communication control unit 2517. Such a computer device realizes various functions as described above by organically collaborating with the hardware such as the CPU 2503 and the memory 2501 described above and the program such as the OS and the application program. ..

The embodiments of the present invention described above can be summarized as follows.

The information processing apparatus according to the present embodiment (A) sets the recording time for each of the recording times of the data including the recording time of the first clock reference that arrives with a fluctuation delay after being transmitted by the external device. For each of the first calculation unit that calculates the estimated time revised by the second clock reference and (B) the recording time, the estimated time that the recording time was revised and the second clock reference that the data including the recording time arrived. A second calculation unit that calculates the time difference from the reading time of (C) and a third calculation unit that calculates the parameters used to calculate the estimated time based on the minimum time difference in each of the two or more periods. Has.

In this way, the recording time set by the external device can be more accurately changed to the estimated time based on the own clock.

Further, the parameter may include a coefficient to be multiplied by the recording time and a value to be added to the product of the recording time and the coefficient.

By doing so, the processing load in calculating the estimated time is relatively small.

Further, the first calculation unit may apply the parameter to the recording time after the two or more periods on which the parameter is based.

By doing so, the estimated time can be obtained at an early timing.

Further, the first calculation unit may apply the parameter to at least a part of the recording time within the two or more periods on which the parameter is based.

In this way, the accuracy of the estimated time is improved.

Further, it may have a control unit that repeats the processing in the first calculation unit, the processing in the second calculation unit, and the processing in the third calculation unit.

In this way, the estimated time can be continuously obtained.

Further, it may have a determination unit for determining the suitability of the current parameter by comparing with the previous parameter.

By doing so, it is possible to prevent miscalculation of the estimated time.

Further, when it is determined that the current parameter is inappropriate, the third calculation unit may recalculate the current parameter based on two or more periods in which at least one period is extended. ..

In this way, the miscalculation of the estimated time can be corrected.

Further, when it is determined that the parameter of this time is appropriate and a predetermined condition is satisfied, a shortening unit for shortening at least one of two or more periods which is the basis of the next time may be provided.

In this way, the error of the estimated time can be suppressed.

Further, the third calculation unit may repeat the correction of the parameter until the parameter satisfies a predetermined condition in the process of calculating the parameter.

In this way, the accuracy of the estimated time is improved.

It should be noted that a program for causing the computer to perform the processing of the information processing apparatus described above can be created, and the program can be read by a computer such as a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, a magneto-optical disk, a semiconductor memory, or a hard disk. It may be stored in a possible storage medium or storage device. The intermediate processing result is generally temporarily stored in a storage device such as a main memory.

The following additional notes will be further disclosed with respect to the embodiments including the above embodiments.

(Appendix 1)
For each of the recording times of the data including the recording time of the first clock reference that arrives with a fluctuation delay after being transmitted by the external device, the first is to calculate the estimated time obtained by revising the recording time with the second clock reference. Calculation part and
For each of the recording times, a second calculation unit that calculates the time difference between the estimated time obtained by revising the recording time and the reading time of the second clock reference in which the data including the recording time arrives.
An information processing device having a third calculation unit that calculates parameters used for calculating the estimated time based on the minimum time difference in each of two or more periods.

(Appendix 2)
The information processing apparatus according to Appendix 1, wherein the parameter includes a coefficient to be multiplied by the recording time and a value to be added to the product of the recording time and the coefficient.

(Appendix 3)
The information processing apparatus according to Appendix 1 or 2, wherein the first calculation unit applies the parameter to a recording time after the two or more periods on which the parameter is based.

(Appendix 4)
The information processing apparatus according to Appendix 1 or 2, wherein the first calculation unit applies the parameter to at least a part of the recording time within the two or more periods on which the parameter is based.

(Appendix 5)
In addition
The information processing apparatus according to any one of Supplementary note 1 to 4, which has a control unit that repeats the processing in the first calculation unit, the processing in the second calculation unit, and the processing in the third calculation unit.

(Appendix 6)
In addition
The information processing apparatus according to Appendix 5, which has a determination unit for determining the suitability of the parameter this time by comparison with the parameter of the previous time.

(Appendix 7)
When it is determined that the parameter of this time is inappropriate, the third calculation unit recalculates the parameter of this time based on the two or more periods in which at least one period is extended. Information processing equipment.

(Appendix 8)
In addition
The information processing according to Appendix 6 or 7, which has a shortening part for shortening at least one of the two or more periods which is the basis for the next time when the parameter of this time is determined to be appropriate and the predetermined condition is satisfied. Device.

(Appendix 9)
The information processing apparatus according to any one of Supplementary note 1 to 8, wherein the third calculation unit repeats correction of the parameter until the parameter satisfies a predetermined condition in the process of calculating the parameter.

(Appendix 10)
Information processing device and
Has an external device,
The information processing device
For each of the recording times of the data including the recording time of the first clock reference that arrives with a fluctuation delay after being transmitted by the external device, the first is to calculate the estimated time obtained by revising the recording time with the second clock reference. Calculation part and
For each of the recording times, a second calculation unit that calculates the time difference between the estimated time obtained by revising the recording time and the reading time of the second clock reference in which the data including the recording time arrives.
It has a third calculation unit that calculates the parameters used to calculate the estimated time based on the minimum time difference in each of the two or more periods.
The external device is
An information processing system that transmits data including the recording time based on the first clock.

(Appendix 11)
For each of the recording times of the data including the recording time of the first clock reference that arrives with a fluctuation delay after being transmitted by the external device, the estimated time obtained by revising the recording time based on the second clock reference is calculated.
For each of the recording times, the time difference between the estimated time obtained by revising the recording time and the reading time based on the second clock when the data including the recording time arrived was calculated.
An information processing method executed by a computer that includes a process of calculating parameters used in calculating the estimated time based on the minimum time difference in each of two or more periods.

101 External equipment 103 Measurement unit 105 Addition unit 107 Local clock 109 Transmission unit 201 Data collection device 203 Operating system 205 Application program 207 Reception unit 209 Buffer 211 System clock 1301 1st setting unit 1303 1st acquisition unit 1305 1st calculation unit 1307 2 Calculation unit 1309 Specific unit 1311 Update unit 1321 Parameter storage unit 1323 Table storage unit 3001 Second setting unit 3003 Control unit 3005 Second acquisition unit 3007 Third calculation unit 3009 Fourth calculation unit 3010 Fifth calculation unit 3011 Judgment unit 3013 Change Part 3015 Shortening part
3021 Parameter storage unit 3023 Time table storage unit 3025 Period type storage unit 3027 Number of times storage unit

Claims (11)

Estimated parameters for each of the recording time of the first clock reference that arrives with a fluctuation delay after transmission by the external device and the recording time of the second data including the first data acquired or generated by the external device. a first calculator for calculating the estimated time at which the recording time was revised in the second clock reference, and stores in association with the first data using,
For each of the recording times, a second calculation unit that calculates the time difference between the estimated time obtained by revising the recording time and the reading time of the second clock reference in which the second data including the recording time has arrived.
Each based on the minimum of the time difference in the two or more each of the periods of the plurality of periods having a predetermined time length, have a third calculation unit for calculating the estimated parameters,
The first calculation unit is an information processing device that uses the estimation parameters calculated by the third calculation unit to calculate an estimated time with respect to a recording time in a predetermined period. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the estimated parameter includes a coefficient to be multiplied by the recording time and a value to be added to the product of the recording time and the coefficient. It said predetermined period of time, the information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 which is a period after the said two or more periods was the basis of the estimated parameters. It said predetermined period of time, the information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 is at least part of the period in the two or more periods was the basis of the estimated parameters. In addition
The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a control unit that repeats the processing in the first calculation unit, the processing in the second calculation unit, and the processing in the third calculation unit. .. In addition
The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising a determination unit for determining the suitability of the estimated parameters this time by comparing with the estimated parameters of the previous time. When it is determined that the current estimation parameter is inappropriate, the third calculation unit requests to recalculate the current estimation parameter based on the two or more periods in which at least one period is extended. Item 6. The information processing apparatus according to item 6. In addition
If the current estimated parameter is determined to be properly and satisfies a predetermined condition, according to claim 6 or 7, wherein having a reducing section to reduce at least one period among the two or more time periods to be next underlying Information processing device. The third calculation unit, wherein the process of calculating the estimated parameters, the estimated parameter information processing apparatus according any one of claims 1 to 8, repeating the correction of the estimated parameter to a predetermined condition is satisfied. Information processing device and
Has an external device,
The information processing device
Estimated parameters for each of the recording time of the first clock reference that arrives with a fluctuation delay after transmission by the external device and the recording time of the second data including the first data acquired or generated by the external device. a first calculator for calculating the estimated time at which the recording time was revised in the second clock reference, and stores in association with the first data using,
For each of the recording times, a second calculation unit that calculates the time difference between the estimated time obtained by revising the recording time and the reading time of the second clock reference in which the second data including the recording time has arrived.
It has a third calculation unit that calculates an estimation parameter used for calculating the estimated time based on the minimum time difference in each of two or more periods among a plurality of periods each having a predetermined time length.
The first calculation unit uses the estimation parameter calculated by the third calculation unit to calculate the estimated time with respect to the recording time in a predetermined period.
The external device is
An information processing system that transmits second data including the recording time based on the first clock and the first data acquired or generated by the external device. Estimated parameters for each of the recording time of the first clock reference that arrives with a fluctuation delay after transmission by the external device and the recording time of the second data including the first data acquired or generated by the external device. The first calculation process of calculating the estimated time obtained by revising the recording time based on the second clock reference and storing it in association with the first data.
For each of the recording times, a second calculation process for calculating the time difference between the estimated time obtained by revising the recording time and the reading time of the second clock reference in which the second data including the recording time has arrived.
An information processing method executed by a computer, including a third calculation process for calculating the estimated parameters based on the minimum time difference in each of two or more periods among a plurality of periods each having a predetermined time length. And
An information processing method in which the estimated parameter calculated in the third calculation process is used in the calculation of the estimated time with respect to the recording time in a predetermined period in the first calculation process.

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