Packet Synchronization Assessment Device Using Scoring Masks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing packet synchronization services in networks are complex and require deep understanding of measurement techniques, making them unsuitable for monitoring and are not easily applicable across different network layers and protocols.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that assign performance scores based on synchronization quality parameters, including clock recovery, phase recovery, and network usability scores, using a scoring scale to simplify the assessment and monitoring of synchronization services, applicable across various network layers and protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional packet timing data measurement methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary assessment device that sits between the packet timing data measurement and the final performance assessment. This device automatically processes raw packet timing measurements, compares them against target performance masks, and generates simplified performance scores. The intermediary layer handles the complexity of interpretation, leaving users with simple, actionable results without needing to understand the underlying measurement complexities.
Solution Approach 2:
The assessment device performs self-service by automatically conducting the entire assessment process including data collection, analysis, comparison with performance masks, and generation of performance scores. The system autonomously determines whether synchronization service performance meets requirements without requiring external expert analysis, thereby simplifying operation while maintaining measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If detailed packet timing data analysis is performed, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The assessment device acts as an intermediary that automatically performs the complex task of comparing packet timing data against target performance masks and interpreting the results. Instead of requiring operators to manually analyze detailed timing data and understand complex synchronization metrics, the system handles all interpretation internally and presents simplified performance assessments, thereby maintaining measurement precision while dramatically improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transforms complex packet timing parameters (such as time deviation, frequency offset, phase error) into simplified performance scores and pass/fail determinations. By changing the parameter representation from detailed technical measurements to intuitive performance indicators, the system maintains the precision of original measurements while making the results easy to interpret and act upon.
3Measurement precision
If precise synchronization reference is required for measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The assessment device performs self-service by autonomously managing the synchronization reference requirements. It automatically determines what level of reference precision is needed for the specific measurement context, configures appropriate performance masks, and adjusts its assessment methodology accordingly. This self-configuration capability eliminates the need for complex manual setup and reduces the burden on operators while maintaining measurement precision.
4Measurement precision
If comprehensive packet synchronization assessment is performed, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring target performance masks and assessment criteria before actual measurements are taken. Performance masks that define acceptable synchronization performance levels are established in advance, allowing the assessment device to quickly compare real-time measurements against predetermined standards. This preliminary preparation enables rapid, automated decision-making about synchronization service quality without requiring complex real-time analysis, thereby improving productivity while maintaining assessment precision.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for assessing the performance of one or more packet synchronization services in a packet data transmission network, the packet data transmission network including a central time information distribution node for transmitting into a transport network a digital packet data signal including a central time information for at least one of the timing parameters absolute time, relative time, frequency and phase, and at least one receiving network node for receiving the digital packet data signal via the transport network, detecting the central time information included in the digital packet data signal received and using the central time information in order to synchronize the at least one timing parameter at the receiving network node and the central time information distribution node. The method according to the invention is characterized by the steps of, at a packet data transmission network probing point, determining at least two synchronization quality describing or influencing parameters based on at least one of the digital timing signal (Sp) received, the recovered time information for the at least one timing parameter and parameters having impact on the synchronization quality and describing or controlling properties of hardware components present at the receiving network node, and, at the packet data transmission network probing point, determining a value of at least one synchronization performance score based on the at least two synchronization quality describing or influencing parameters. Further, the invention relates to a device implementing this method.