Clock Synchronization via Round-Trip Delay Ratio Computation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clock synchronization technologies in mobile networks face challenges due to asymmetry in network paths and unstable packet transmission delays, leading to reduced accuracy and difficulty in detecting synchronization faults, especially in backhaul networks with multiple switches and third-party untrusted networks.
Innovation Solution
A method that computes a round-trip delay ratio between a network controller and a network switch using IEEE 1588v2 Precision Time Protocol, locking a clock based on this ratio to improve synchronization accuracy and reduce delay variation, while incorporating a fault detection function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If IEEE 1588v2 PTP is used for clock synchronization in backhaul networks with multiple switches and third-party untrusted networks, then clock synchronization can be achieved, but synchronization accuracy deteriorates due to network path asymmetry and unstable packet transmission delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a network controller as an intermediary between the grandmaster clock and network switches. The controller computes round-trip delay ratios and provides correction values to compensate for network path asymmetry and delay variation, thereby maintaining synchronization accuracy in complex backhaul networks with multiple switches and third-party networks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical assumption of symmetric network paths with a computational approach. Instead of relying on path symmetry, the system uses delay ratio computation and correction mechanisms to account for asymmetry, substituting physical path assumptions with mathematical correction
2Reliability
If traditional clock synchronization methods are used in backhaul networks, then synchronization can be maintained, but fault detection becomes difficult and time-consuming requiring manual detection of network switches
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the network controller continuously monitors synchronization status and delay characteristics. The system provides automatic fault detection by analyzing synchronization errors and delay variations, eliminating the need for manual switch-by-switch detection and enabling rapid identification of synchronization issues
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service fault detection through automatic monitoring and analysis capabilities built into the network controller. The controller autonomously detects synchronization faults and identifies problematic network switches without requiring external manual intervention, reducing operational complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A clock synchronization method, a mobile network system, a network controller and a network switch are provided. The method computes a round-trip delay ratio between the network controller and the network switch according to a first delay, of which the network controller transmits a packet to the network switch, and a second delay, of which the network switch transmits another packet to the network controller. The method also locks a first clock based on a time-transfer protocol with the round-trip delay ratio, wherein the first clock is synchronized with a master clock of the network controller. The method further sets the first clock being locked as a runtime clock of the network switch.