Optical Switch Clock Signal Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems lack a cost-efficient, robust, and reliable method for maintaining a clock or timing signal, particularly in Ethernet networks and communications between packet networks and time domain multiplexing systems, which complicates performance tracking and synchronization.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for communicating timing using an optical switch that extracts a tick of a reference clock from data packets and disciplines a secondary clock to generate a clock signal, which is then distributed to interfaces for synchronization, utilizing optical interfaces and fiber optics to determine available data streams and maintain accurate timing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing systems use traditional clock maintenance methods in Ethernet networks, then system compatibility is maintained, but cost-efficiency and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The optical switch is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both a data switching device and a clock signal distribution device. By integrating clock signal extraction and distribution capabilities into the optical switch, the system eliminates the need for separate dedicated clock distribution hardware, thereby reducing cost while improving reliability through a unified robust platform
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where data packets serve as carriers for clock signal information. The optical switch extracts clock ticks from incoming data packets and uses them to discipline local clocks, creating a bridge between packet data transmission and precise timing without requiring separate physical clock distribution infrastructure
2Adaptability or versatility
If packet networks interface with TDM systems, then communication versatility is improved, but performance tracking and synchronization become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The optical switch extracts clock signal information from within data packets using packet timing analysis. By pulling out the timing characteristics from the packet data stream itself, the system simplifies the interface between packet networks and TDM systems, as the extracted clock signals can directly discipline TDM equipment without complex translation mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring packet arrival times at the optical switch and using this information to adjust and discipline local clocks. This closed-loop feedback mechanism automatically compensates for timing variations in packet transmission, simplifying the synchronization process between packet and TDM domains
3Measurement precision
If clock accuracy is improved for performance measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical switch performs self-disciplining by automatically extracting clock ticks from incoming data packets and using them to regulate its own local clocks. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external complex clock synchronization systems, achieving high measurement precision through autonomous operation
Solution Approach 2:
The same optical switch infrastructure that handles data routing is also used for clock signal extraction and distribution. By making the data network infrastructure serve dual purposes (data + timing), the system achieves high measurement precision without adding separate complex timing equipment
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method, and optical switch for communicating timing. A determination is made whether one of a number of data streams are available. Packets are received at a remote node in response to determining one of the number of data streams is available. A timing characteristic of the at least one of the packets is associated with a tick of a reference clock. The tick of the reference clock is extracted utilizing the timing characteristic of the at least one of the packets. A secondary clock is disciplined with the reference clock by adjusting the secondary clock based on a difference between times measured by the reference clock and the secondary clock to generate a clock signal. The clock signal is communicated to one or more interfaces for distributing.