Abstract
Disclosed is a protocol and architecture for distributed timekeeping that replaces scalar binary counters (e.g., Unix timestamps) with Hyperdimensional (HD) State Vectors. The system, termed the "Universal Time-Locked Protocol (UTLP) Vector Time," generates a global time state via the superposition of multiple coprime cyclic attractors (virtual oscillators), creating a high-dimensional "temporal texture" that evolves deterministically.
Unlike scalar clocks which require absolute synchronization, this vector-based approach enables "Fuzzy Synchronization," where distributed nodes correct drift via similarity-based gradient descent rather than hard resets. To accommodate low-bandwidth networks (e.g., BLE, 802.15.4), the system utilizes "Generative Compression," transmitting only the phase indices (a "Harmonic Chord" of approx. 8-14 bytes) which allows receivers to regenerate the full 10,000+ bit hypervector locally.
The disclosure includes a reference implementation for "Elastic Coherency," a method for drift correction that averages vector states across a swarm, and a hardware architecture definition using parallel circular shift registers or compute-in-memory (CIM) arrays for micro-watt power operation. This technology is applicable to swarm robotics, neuromorphic computing, and haptic coordination where atomic-level coherency is required without a central master clock.
Publication Date
2026-01-07
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Kirkland, Steven, "Method and System for Distributed Timekeeping and Synchronization Using Coprime Cyclic Hyperdimensional Vectors", Technical Disclosure Commons, (January 08, 2026)
https://www.tdcommons.org/dpubs_series/9151
UTLP Vector Time Reference Implementation