Network Node Time Synchronization via Lookup Table
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IEEE 1588 protocols, such as PTP, face challenges in maintaining high accuracy synchronization due to the loss of reserved fields for exchanging instructions or commands, limiting the flexibility and efficiency of time synchronization operations between network nodes.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a lookup table-based approach within network devices to determine actions for time synchronization, allowing for the execution of various actions conforming to IEEE 1588 2.1 while retaining the functionality of IEEE 1588 2.0, including timestamp management and clock synchronization, even in the absence of reserved fields.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If IEEE 1588 2.1 protocol is implemented, then time synchronization accuracy is improved, but flexibility in exchanging instructions or commands deteriorates due to loss of reserved fields
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a lookup table as an intermediary mechanism that mediates between the constrained IEEE 1588 2.1 protocol format and the need for flexible command execution. The lookup table stores pre-configured action sequences that can be triggered by specific packet conditions, enabling complex synchronization operations without requiring additional reserved fields for real-time instruction exchange.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring action tables and lookup entries during system initialization or configuration phases. This allows the system to have pre-prepared synchronization sequences and command responses ready for execution, eliminating the need for dynamic instruction exchange during runtime while maintaining high accuracy synchronization.
2Device complexity
If traditional packet processing is used, then protocol simplicity is maintained, but CPU load increases and processing efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by designing a system where the lookup table automatically determines packet processing actions without requiring extensive CPU intervention. The hardware or firmware autonomously queries the lookup table based on packet characteristics and executes the corresponding pre-determined actions, making the processing system self-sufficient and reducing the burden on the CPU.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical CPU-based packet processing system with a more efficient lookup table-driven mechanism. Instead of relying on the CPU to parse and decide processing actions for each packet, the system uses pre-computed lookup tables that provide instant action determination, substituting the mechanical processing approach with a more efficient data-driven approach.
3Adaptability or versatility
If reserved fields are removed for IEEE 1588 2.1 compliance, then protocol standardization is improved, but functionality for custom synchronization operations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from the traditional dimension of in-band reserved fields to another dimension by implementing out-of-band lookup tables. This dimensional shift allows the system to maintain IEEE 1588 2.1 compliance with standardized packet formats while recovering the lost functionality through a separate configuration dimension provided by the lookup tables, which store custom operation definitions without consuming packet bandwidth.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are systems and methods for implementing a look up table by a network node, and performing or supporting time synchronization based on the look up table. In one aspect, a network node may receive a packet. The network node can identify a few number of bits in the packet, and determine one or more actions or functions corresponding to the few number of bits via the look up table. In addition, the network node can execute or perform the determined one or more actions to support time synchronization.