Network Timing Parameter Update via Broadcast and Delayed Invalidation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current time synchronization methods in data processing networks are inefficient as they require dedicated connections and are prone to invalidation when communication with a clock source is lost, leading to increased processing power consumption and network delays.
Innovation Solution
A method for updating timing parameters in a networked data processing system that involves selecting parameters to change, constructing an information response packet, broadcasting it to other servers, and determining if they are in communication with a clock source, with the option to wait and declare parameters invalid if communication is lost, allowing for temporary communication failures and flexible recovery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated connections are used for timing information transmission, then timing synchronization reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the timing parameter update function from dedicated timing connections and implements it through existing data communication channels. The ETR separates timing parameter management from time synchronization, allowing parameter updates to be transmitted through regular network infrastructure rather than requiring dedicated timing lines.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing data communication network is made multi-functional by enabling it to carry both data traffic and timing parameter information. The ETR uses the same communication infrastructure for both purposes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated timing connections while maintaining synchronization capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If continuous monitoring of timing parameters is implemented at each node, then timing parameter update detection is improved, but processing power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ETR implements a feedback mechanism where timing parameter updates are broadcast to all nodes, and nodes only process updates when notified. The system uses an update notification approach where the ETR informs nodes of parameter changes rather than requiring continuous monitoring, reducing processing overhead while maintaining accurate update detection.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of continuous monitoring, the system uses periodic broadcasting of timing parameters from the ETR to all network nodes. Nodes receive updates at regular intervals through broadcast messages, eliminating the need for continuous active monitoring while ensuring timely parameter updates.
3Speed
If timing parameter updates are broadcast throughout the network, then synchronization speed is improved, but network delays increase with distance
Solution Approach 1:
The ETR performs preliminary actions by calculating and preparing timing parameter updates before broadcasting them to the network. The system pre-computes the necessary parameter adjustments and schedules their distribution, allowing nodes to apply updates efficiently without waiting for real-time calculations during propagation.
Solution Approach 2:
The ETR acts as an intermediary central authority that manages timing parameter distribution. Rather than nodes directly communicating timing information with each other, all parameter updates flow through the ETR, which coordinates the broadcast and manages the update process, reducing network complexity and improving synchronization efficiency.
4Reliability
If a node loses communication with the clock source, then parameter invalidity is detected, but system availability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The ETR implements beforehand cushioning by maintaining a queue of pre-calculated timing parameter updates that can be supplied to nodes even when communication with the clock source is temporarily lost. This buffer allows the system to continue operating with valid parameters during brief communication disruptions, maintaining system availability while still detecting and recovering from communication failures.
Data Source
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AI summary
In a networked data processing system, the updating of timing parameters is carried out via a process in which the detection of the loss of communications with the network is not immediately employed as an indication of parameter invalidity but rather the process employs a system specific delay which permits actions such as server or link recovery to occur without necessitating the declaration of timing parameter invalidity.