If you wish to contribute or participate in the discussions about articles you are invited to contact the Editor
Precise Time Reference
| Applications | |
|---|---|
| Title | Precise Time Reference |
| Author(s) | GMV. |
| Level | Medium |
| Year of Publication | 2011 |
Application Architecture
Application Characterization
Application Examples
Network synchronisation for power generation and distribution
The growing integration of networks for energy distribution and the emphasis on energy savings and efficiency require increasingly precise and accurate synchronisation. GNSS can provide the synchronisation to achieve efficient power flow. For example, measurements of perturbations must be time-tagged with errors of less than 0.001 sec. Moreover, the management of high-power generators, such as large turbo gas and large steam turbines, requires strict timing[1].
Electrical energy is not easily stored and, in the case of malfunctions, current or voltage surges propagate along the lines. There is a tremendous potential for cost savings through the reliable remote reading of meters. Surges are sometimes large enough to damage line equipment and cause long interruptions in service. For tracing the origin of the problem and deciding on what action to take, time-tagging the individual events is mandatory. With time synchronisation at the microsecond level, the fault can be located to within 300 m – the distance between power line towers[1].
Secure electronic documents
The digital era has created electronic documentation as an effective alternative to paper. This means that new concepts for legal acceptance of electronic signatures and time-stamping must be developed. GNSS can provide certifiable and reliable data worldwide. For authentication and electronic-signing, the encryption system could be based on the GNSS time signal. Many applications will be enabled by the use of GNSS technology for encryption, electronic signature and time-stamping[2]. Such approach is allready being used in the financial sector where security, data integrity, authenticity and confidentiality depend on the accurate time stamps that can be enabled by GNSS[3]
Notes
References
- ^ a b Galileo Application Sheet - Energy Applications, ESA and European Commission, June 2002
- ^ Galileo Application Sheet - Finance, Banking, Insurance Applications, ESA and European Commission, June 2002
- ^ Europe’s Satellite Navigation Programmes - Galileo and EGNOS, GSA, 2008