Optical Clock Synchronization via Master Label Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multipoint-to-multipoint all-optical communication systems, clock frequency synchronization between independent communication nodes is challenging due to frequency deviations among crystal oscillators, preventing effective orthogonality and synchronization.
Innovation Solution
A method for clock frequency synchronization involving a network device that detects master and secondary labels in combined optical signals to synchronize local clock frequencies with designated nodes, enabling timely synchronization and node selection through label contention mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If independent crystal oscillators are used at each communication node, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but clock frequency synchronization deteriorates due to frequency deviations among oscillators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a master node as an intermediary that generates a reference clock signal and distributes it to all other nodes. This mediator resolves the contradiction by providing a common frequency reference that all nodes can synchronize to, while still allowing each node to operate independently with its own crystal oscillator. The master node acts as the intermediary that bridges the gap between independent operation and synchronized frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where each node continuously monitors the frequency difference between its local oscillator and the reference frequency from the master node. Based on this feedback, nodes adjust their local oscillators to minimize frequency deviation. This closed-loop feedback system maintains synchronization while preserving the independence of individual nodes.
2Reliability
If clock frequency synchronization is implemented in multipoint-to-multipoint systems, then orthogonality and signal quality are improved, but device complexity increases due to additional synchronization mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the clock synchronization function with the existing optical communication infrastructure by utilizing the same optical channels for both data transmission and clock signal distribution. The master node's reference clock is distributed through the existing optical network, combining multiple functions into the existing system architecture rather than adding separate dedicated synchronization hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the optical communication system universal by enabling it to perform both data transmission and clock distribution functions through the same infrastructure. The optical channels serve multiple purposes: carrying data signals and simultaneously distributing the reference clock signal, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining orthogonality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If master node selection and switching is implemented, then system adaptability and fault tolerance are improved, but detection precision and switching latency are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-establishing a list of candidate master nodes and pre-configuring their identification labels. When the current master node fails, the system can immediately switch to a pre-identified candidate without requiring time-consuming selection procedures. This preliminary preparation reduces switching latency while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or procedural master node selection mechanisms with an optical signal-based identification system. Each candidate master node has a unique optical label that can be rapidly detected and recognized, enabling fast switching based on optical signal detection rather than complex coordination protocols, thereby reducing switching latency.
Data Source
AI summary
In a method, a network device receives a combined optical signal, where the combined optical signal is obtained by coupling optical signals sent by a plurality of communication nodes. If the network device is not a master node, the network device detects whether a master label exists in the combined optical signal, where the master label indicates the master node. If it is detected that a first master label exists in the combined optical signal, where the first master label indicates a first master node, the network device synchronizes a local clock frequency with a clock frequency of the first master node.