Network Timing Trail Visualization for 5G Sync Troubleshooting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network timing visualization tools lack effective methods for troubleshooting precision timing issues in 5G networks, particularly in distributing timing between network elements, which is critical for various sectors including financial services and infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for visualizing network timing trails using a graphical user interface that allows users to obtain timing information from multiple network elements, display maps showing timing paths, and adjust these maps based on user input for troubleshooting, including visual indicators for clock states and quality, with the ability to switch timing paths and perform tests.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional network timing visualization tools are used, then basic timing information can be displayed, but effective troubleshooting of precision timing issues cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the timing trail information into multiple visual layers including timing paths, clock sources, synchronization protocols (PTP/SyncE), and quality indicators. Each layer can be independently configured and displayed, allowing users to focus on specific aspects of timing distribution without being overwhelmed by complete system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a multi-dimensional visualization approach by adding temporal dimensions to the timing trail display. It shows timing information across different time periods, allows playback of timing events, and presents historical timing data alongside current state, enabling troubleshooting through time-based analysis rather than static snapshots.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If detailed timing information from all network elements is collected, then comprehensive troubleshooting capability is achieved, but system complexity and data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential timing parameters needed for troubleshooting from the complete set of network element data. It selectively collects information about timing paths, clock quality levels, synchronization protocol status, and anomaly events, while filtering out redundant operational data, thus reducing processing complexity while maintaining detection effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer that acts as a mediator between raw timing data from network elements and the visualization interface. This intermediary layer pre-processes, filters, and organizes timing information, performing initial analysis and anomaly detection before presenting data to users, thereby reducing the complexity of both data collection and presentation systems.
3Ease of operation
If interactive exploration of timing paths is enabled, then user ability to troubleshoot timing issues is improved, but interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic GUI that adapts its complexity based on user interaction and selection. The interface allows users to dynamically explore timing paths by selecting different network elements, protocols, or time periods, with the visualization automatically adjusting to show relevant information. This dynamic approach maintains ease of operation by presenting only necessary controls and information at each interaction stage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary organization and structuring of timing path data before presentation to users. Timing trails are pre-computed and structured in a format that enables intuitive exploration, with default views showing the most relevant information. This preliminary preparation reduces the complexity of real-time processing required during user interaction while maintaining comprehensive exploration capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A network timing view provides enhanced visualization for synch timing in support of mobile (4G/5G deployments) and others requiring sync. It allows network managers to view relevant synch data both textually and graphically displayed on the network map nodes and links in a unified view. The user is able to select the appropriate filter on the network map to show the 1588/SyncE connectivity and relevant nodes that are participating in delivering timing. It allows a user to trace the timing path from any timing device upstream to the clock source. It also allows the user to interactively discover and navigate downstream timing paths from any timing device, similar to exploring a tree hierarchy. The timing topology and path data provided allows a user to investigate the timing network for troubleshooting purposes such as timing alarms and events, sync problems, clock quality levels and clock states.