Optical Network Synchronization via Bidirectional Channel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for providing accurate time synchronization over optical networks face challenges in achieving high precision and reliability, particularly in applications like 5G wireless systems and financial trading, where precise timestamping and synchronization are critical.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for establishing a synchronization service over an optical communication network using a bidirectional optical channel, allowing for the transmission of synchronization data between a primary reference clock and client nodes, enabling precise time and frequency synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional synchronization methods are used over optical networks, then implementation is simpler, but synchronization accuracy deteriorates and cannot meet nanosecond-level requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the synchronization system into multiple functional modules: bidirectional optical channel establishment, timestamp generation, delay measurement, and synchronization data processing. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the complex synchronization task to be divided into manageable parts that can be implemented and optimized independently, thereby achieving high precision without overwhelming system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary elements such as timestamp messages and delay measurement packets that mediate between the optical channel and the synchronization process. These intermediaries carry precise timing information bidirectionally, enabling accurate delay measurement and compensation without requiring direct complex interaction between all system components.
2Reliability
If bidirectional optical channel is established for synchronization data transmission, then synchronization accuracy improves to nanosecond level, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bidirectional optical channel serves multiple functions: it transmits synchronization data, carries timestamp information, enables delay measurement, and supports bidirectional communication for compensation calculations. By making the optical channel multi-functional, the patent achieves high reliability without requiring separate dedicated channels for each function, thereby managing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where timestamp messages are exchanged bidirectionally to measure actual transmission delays. The measured delay information is fed back to compensate for timing errors in the synchronization process, continuously improving reliability while using the same optical infrastructure.
3Measurement precision
If timestamp precision is increased to meet financial trading requirements, then measurement precision improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the precision parameter of timestamps to nanosecond or picosecond level to meet financial trading requirements. By adjusting this critical parameter and implementing corresponding high-precision timing mechanisms, the system achieves the required measurement precision while managing complexity through focused optimization of timing parameters rather than overall system redesign.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides methods, apparatus and computer-readable media for synchronization over an optical network. A method comprises: receiving, from a client, a request to initiate a synchronization service for a client node coupled to the optical communication network; and, in response to the request, establishing a synchronization service to the client node via a virtual synchronization network utilizing the optical communication network. The synchronization service utilizes a bidirectional optical channel established via the optical communication network for the transmission of synchronization data for the client.