Communication Error Diagnosis via Force Log Request
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Solution Overview
Problem
Diagnosing errors in inter-computer communication links is challenging due to asynchronous log information and physical distance between nodes, leading to incorrect error detection and potential system downtime when attempting to induce errors for logging purposes.
Innovation Solution
A method where a sending node detects errors and sends a force log request to a receiving node to log specific diagnostic information, which is then returned to facilitate accurate error diagnosis without disrupting the communication link.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If error detection is performed at one side of the communication link, then error detection capability is improved, but the difficulty of locating the actual error source increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the receiving node sends back diagnostic information about its state when errors are detected. This allows the sending node to correlate errors with specific receiving node conditions, effectively locating the error source while maintaining detection capability at the sending node.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses diagnostic information as an intermediary that bridges the gap between error detection at one node and error cause identification at another node. This intermediary data enables correlation of errors across the communication link without requiring direct observation at both ends simultaneously.
2Measurement precision
If log information is collected from both sides of the communication link, then error diagnosis accuracy is improved, but the complexity of correlating logs increases due to unsynchronized time clocks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the receiving node log diagnostic information at the moment an error is detected, before the sending node receives the error notification. This ensures that the log data is captured in a consistent state relative to the error event, simplifying correlation when the sending node receives the diagnostic information.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving node sends feedback diagnostic information back to the sending node, which includes timing data and error context. This feedback mechanism provides a reference frame that helps the sending node correlate its own logs with the receiving node's logs, overcoming the synchronization problem.
3Loss of information
If error injection is used to force logging at the receiving node, then diagnostic information is obtained, but the communication link reliability deteriorates due to unnecessary recovery actions and potential system downtime
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of injecting errors to force logging, the patent uses preliminary action by having the receiving node automatically log diagnostic information when it naturally detects errors during normal operation. This eliminates the need for artificial error injection while still obtaining the necessary diagnostic data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful effect of error injection into a beneficial approach by utilizing natural errors that occur during normal communication operation. The receiving node's error detection mechanism, which would normally just trigger recovery actions, is instead harnessed to capture diagnostic information for analysis.
4Device complexity
If standard error responses are used for unanticipated events, then system simplicity is maintained, but diagnostic adequacy for rare or silent drops is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of diagnostic information collection by having the receiving node log detailed diagnostic data (including message contents, error conditions, and system state) rather than using simple standardized responses. This provides sufficient diagnostic information for rare and unanticipated events while maintaining system simplicity through automated logging.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving node performs self-service by automatically logging its own diagnostic information when errors occur, without requiring external intervention or complex diagnostic protocols. This self-logging capability provides adequate diagnostic information for various error types while keeping the system design simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for diagnosing communications includes sending a message from a sending node to a receiving node. The sending node detects an error in the receiving node receiving the message. A force log request is sent from the sending node to the receiving node, the force log request including a request for the receiving node to log information. A force log response is received from the receiving node at the sending node, the force log response including the logged information. The sending node diagnoses the communications error in response to the force log response.