Network Synchronization Status Query via Ethernet Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current time synchronization protocols in computer networks do not provide information about the status of synchronization between nodes, limiting the accuracy of synchronization and the ability to trigger time-controlled actions.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize a subprotocol within Ethernet frames to convey information about the synchronization status between nodes, allowing for improved synchronization accuracy and enabling time-controlled actions by querying and responding with synchronization status data using specific data words within the frames.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If time synchronization protocols (PTP, gPTP) are used for data exchange between nodes, then time information is exchanged between nodes, but information about the status of synchronization between nodes is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines time synchronization protocol functionality with status information exchange by integrating a status field into the existing PTP/gPTP message structure. This allows synchronization status information to be transmitted alongside time information using the same protocol framework, eliminating the need for separate status query mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization status mechanism is designed to work universally with existing time synchronization protocols (PTP and gPTP). The status field can be incorporated into various message types (Sync, Follow_Up, Delay_Req, Delay_Resp) without requiring protocol-specific modifications, making the solution applicable across different network configurations and implementations.
2Measurement precision
If synchronization status information is not provided, then protocol implementation is simpler, but synchronization accuracy cannot be improved and time-controlled actions cannot be triggered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where synchronization status information is continuously provided back to the requesting node. This feedback enables the node to assess the current synchronization state and make informed decisions about whether to proceed with time-controlled actions, thereby improving both synchronization accuracy and the reliability of triggered actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization status information is provided in advance before time-controlled actions are triggered. This allows the requesting node to verify synchronization conditions are met prior to executing critical time-dependent operations, ensuring that actions are only triggered when synchronization accuracy requirements are satisfied.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a correspondingly designed device for data transfer in a computer network, the method including transmitting a first message addressed by a first node of the computer network to a second node of the computer network for requesting information regarding the synchronicity of the second node with an element of the computer network, receiving a second message addressed by the second node of the computer network to the first node of the computer network with information regarding the synchronicity of the second node with the element, and ascertaining a status of the synchronization of the second node with the element with the aid of the received information.