PCE-Based Cross-Domain Clock Synchronization Path Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication networks face challenges in implementing cross-domain clock synchronization due to their increasing complexity and diversity, leading to tedious manual configuration and difficulty in maintaining accurate clock synchronization across multiple-type networks with numerous nodes and complex topological relationships.
Innovation Solution
A cross-domain clock synchronization method utilizing a Path Computation Element (PCE) that exchanges clock synchronization types with a controller, acquires physical topological and synchronization information, calculates clock synchronization paths using BRPC or H-PCE methods, and sends instructions to synchronization nodes, eliminating the need for manual configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual configuration is used for clock synchronization in complex multiple-type networks, then clock synchronization can be implemented, but the maintenance work becomes tedious and difficult to keep up with frequent network changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automation where the PCE automatically calculates clock synchronization paths and the controller automatically configures synchronization parameters based on real-time network topology discovery. This eliminates manual configuration and maintenance operations, allowing the system to adapt automatically to network changes while maintaining synchronization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a PCE (Path Computation Element) as an intermediary between the network topology and the clock synchronization configuration. The PCE automatically discovers network topology, calculates optimal synchronization paths, and provides configuration instructions to controllers, thereby mediating the complex interaction between network changes and synchronization requirements without manual intervention.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the network scale is extended and multiple network types are hybridized, then network functionality is enhanced, but the complexity of implementing clock synchronization increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal PCE-based architecture that can handle multiple network types (OTN, PTN, IP networks) through a single unified system. The PCE discovers topology across different network domains, calculates synchronization paths considering diverse network characteristics, and provides universal configuration methods that work across all network types, thereby managing complexity while supporting diversity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the complex synchronization implementation into distinct functional modules: topology discovery module, path calculation module (using BRPC or H-PCE algorithms), and configuration deployment module. This segmentation allows each module to handle specific aspects of multi-type network synchronization independently, reducing overall implementation complexity while maintaining adaptability.
3Extent of automation
If automatic path calculation is implemented using PCE, then manual configuration is eliminated and maintenance is simplified, but the system requires additional components and protocol extensions
Solution Approach 1:
The PCE serves as an intermediary that centralizes the path calculation function, eliminating the need for manual configuration at individual network devices. By introducing this single intermediary component with standardized interfaces, the system achieves high automation without proportionally increasing complexity at each network node, as the PCE handles all calculation logic centrally.
Data Source
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AI summary
A cross-domain clock synchronization method, device and system and a computer storage medium, which are applied to a cross-domain synchronization network. A Path Calculate Element (PCE) exchanges a clock synchronization type with a controller participating in clock synchronization path calculation to match the clock synchronization type supported by the PCE and the controller; the PCE acquires physical topological information of the cross-domain synchronization network; the PCE acquires synchronization information of synchronization nodes of the cross-domain synchronization network and/or hop number information between the synchronization nodes; the PCE calculates a clock synchronization path of the cross-domain synchronization network according to the physical topological information as well as the synchronization information and/or the hop number information; and the PCE sends the clock synchronization path to the controller according to the physical topological information to enable the controller to send a clock synchronization instruction to synchronization nodes on the clock synchronization path.