1588 Time Error Detection Using Probe Packets

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies lack a method for detecting 1588 time errors between network elements, particularly between peer-to-peer network elements, which can lead to timing synchronization failures due to undetected errors in the network link.

Innovation Solution

A method and device for detecting 1588 time errors involve establishing a 1588 time network, transmitting probe packets with local timestamps between network elements, calculating time differences using a preset algorithm, and reporting alarms for detection path failures when the time difference exceeds a threshold.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If 1588 time transmission is implemented between network elements, then time synchronization is achieved, but timing errors may occur and remain undetected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime synchronization reliabilityVSAvoidtiming error detection difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where network elements send probe packets containing timestamps to opposite network elements, and the receiving element calculates time difference and sends back detection results. This closed-loop feedback allows continuous monitoring of 1588 time synchronization status and timely detection of timing errors between network elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces probe packets as intermediary carriers that transport timestamp information between network elements. These probe packets serve as mediators to carry measurement data (timestamps) through the network, enabling indirect measurement of time differences without directly manipulating the synchronized time signals themselves.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If no detection method is provided for peer-to-peer 1588 time error, then network operation is simplified, but timing errors cannot be detected leading to potential synchronization failure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork operation simplicityVSAvoidtime synchronization reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables network elements to perform self-detection of timing errors using built-in probe packet transmission and time difference calculation capabilities. Each network element can independently monitor its own synchronization status with opposite network elements without requiring external intervention or complex manual testing procedures, thus maintaining operational simplicity while enhancing reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If timing error detection is implemented, then synchronization failure can be prevented, but additional probe packet transmission and calculation processes are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime synchronization reliabilityVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs probe packets to serve multiple functions: they carry timestamp information for time synchronization, enable timing error detection through round-trip measurement, and provide feedback for synchronization status monitoring. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated detection mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in system complexity while achieving reliable timing error detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9331837B2Method and device for detecting 1588 time error between network elements
Publication Date: 2016.05.03 XIAN ZHONGXING NEW SOFTWARE
  • US9331837B2 patent drawing
  • US9331837B2 patent drawing
  • US9331837B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and a device for detecting a 1588 time error between network elements are disclosed. The method includes: a 1588 time network is established for an entire network; when it is required to detect a 1588 time error between a network element and its opposite network element, the network elements transmit, probe packets, each including a local timestamp to each other; and the network element receiving a probe packet calculates, according to a preset time difference algorithm, a time difference between the local timestamp and the timestamp in the probe packet, determines, according to the time difference, whether there is a failure in a detection path, and reports an alarm when there is a failure in the detection path. The disclosure prevents erroneous time transmission due to the time error, thus ensuring the network stability.