Auxiliary Timing Signal Phase Correction for Network Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protocols for synchronizing timing signals in data transfer networks, such as IEEE 1588-2008 and ITU-T G.8275.1, are inadequate when network elements cannot utilize satellite timing information due to issues like radio jamming or asymmetric data paths, leading to inaccuracies in secondary timing signal generation.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that derive an auxiliary timing signal from an auxiliary signal received at a site, correcting its phase using timing phases from other sites to maintain phase-locking with a primary timing signal, employing a corrective constant to ensure synchronization accuracy, even when the primary timing source is unavailable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If IEEE 1588-2008 protocol is used for timing synchronization, then network elements can exchange timestamp messages, but timing accuracy deteriorates due to asymmetric data paths and random transfer times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary correction mechanism that mediates between the auxiliary timing signal and the primary timing signal. A correction value is calculated based on the difference between timing phases measured at different locations, and this correction value is applied to compensate for asymmetries in the data path, thereby improving timing accuracy without requiring changes to the underlying IEEE 1588 protocol
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical assumption of symmetric data paths with a computational correction approach. Instead of relying on physical symmetry in network paths, the system uses mathematical correction values derived from measured timing differences to compensate for asymmetric propagation delays, substituting a computational model for the mechanical symmetry assumption
2Measurement precision
If G.8275.1 protocol is used for timing synchronization, then phase synchronization accuracy is improved by regenerating timing frequency at each network element, but device complexity increases and compatibility with older network elements is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a simpler correction mechanism that can be implemented in existing network elements without requiring complex regeneration capabilities. The correction value calculation and application uses basic processing resources already available in standard network elements, avoiding the need for expensive or complex hardware modifications while achieving sufficient timing accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial correction rather than complete regeneration of timing signals. Instead of fully regenerating timing frequency at each network element as required by G.8275.1, the system applies a correction value that addresses the specific timing offset issue, using less complex processing while achieving the necessary synchronization accuracy for the application
3Measurement precision
If satellite timing information is used for synchronization, then timing signal accuracy is improved, but reliability deteriorates when radio jamming or satellite unavailability occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares for satellite unavailability by establishing an auxiliary timing signal source and pre-configuring the correction mechanism. When satellite timing information becomes unavailable due to jamming or other issues, the system can seamlessly switch to using the auxiliary timing signal with correction values, ensuring continuous operation without interruption to the timing synchronization function
Data Source
AI summary
A device and a method for generating a secondary timing signal that is synchronous with a primary timing signal are presented. The method comprises deriving (401) an auxiliary timing signal from an auxiliary signal received at a first site and correcting (402, 403) the timing phase of the auxiliary timing signal so as to obtain the timing phase for the secondary timing signal. The timing phase is corrected with the aid of the following a) a constant phase shift between the auxiliary timing signal and another auxiliary timing signal derived in a second site where both the primary timing signal and the auxiliary signal are available and b) a dynamic phase shift between the other auxiliary timing signal and the primary timing signal at the second site.