Network Time Synchronization via Controller-Based Signal Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication networks in electric power delivery systems face challenges in efficiently managing path planning and time synchronization across a large number of devices, particularly with plug and play security rulesets that require lengthy authorization, and in complying with standards like IEC 61850 for interoperability and time distribution.
Innovation Solution
A controller uses configuration files, such as SCL and JSON files, to map communication devices and distribute time signals, employing SDN and STA protocols for efficient path planning and time synchronization, ensuring compliance with IEC 61850 standards and managing device authorization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If proactive traffic engineering and deny-by-default security rulesets are used for device authorization, then network security is improved, but device authorization time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring security rulesets and traffic engineering policies in the network controller before devices need authorization. When a new device joins, the controller can rapidly apply pre-prepared configuration templates and security policies, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual security configurations while maintaining strong security posture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service through automated device authorization where the controller automatically evaluates new devices against pre-defined security criteria, applies appropriate security rulesets, and configures traffic engineering policies without manual intervention. This automation maintains security while dramatically reducing authorization time.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual configuration methods are used for device authorization, then configuration accuracy is improved, but configuration time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the controller continuously monitors device performance and network conditions, automatically adjusting configurations to maintain optimal accuracy. The system validates configurations against predefined criteria and provides feedback loops that ensure configuration precision while operating at automated speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses configuration templates and copying mechanisms where proven successful configurations are replicated and adapted for new devices. This ensures configuration accuracy by leveraging validated templates while enabling rapid deployment through automated copying and customization processes.
3Productivity
If configuration files are used to manage path planning, then device authorization speed is improved, but network security complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing configuration files with standardized, multi-functional structures that handle multiple security and routing functions in a unified format. This universal configuration approach simplifies the overall system while enabling rapid device authorization through consistent, template-based configurations that work across different device types and network scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are systems and methods for configuring time synchronization in a network. The system includes a time signal source to provide a common time signal to multiple configurable communication devices and a network controller in a control plane, in communication with the multiple configurable communication devices. The network controller is configured to receive time signal source information and to receive device configuration information for a first configurable communication device. The network controller is also configured to determine settings for time signal distribution and to transmit the settings to the multiple configurable communication devices to cause the first configurable communication device to transmit the time signal from the time signal source in a data plane for consumption by the multiple configurable communication devices.