PTP Boundary Clock Selection Using Network Resistance Indices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PTP compatible devices face challenges in time synchronization due to unsuitable network environments, as synchronization performance is optimized for direct cable connections, and there is a lack of criteria for selecting optimal devices based on network line quality, leading to synchronization failures and inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus and method that associate boundary clock function devices with network environment resistance index information, allowing for the determination of master/slave relationships and domain changes based on network environment resistance index information, including packet transfer jitter and delay, to optimize time synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If PTP compatible devices are used for time synchronization in network environments, then time synchronization can be achieved between devices, but synchronization accuracy deteriorates when network line quality is poor (high packet drop rate, large delay jitter)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces network environment resistance index information that characterizes PTP compatible devices based on their synchronization performance under different network conditions. By evaluating and selecting devices with appropriate resistance indices for specific network environments, the system optimizes synchronization accuracy while maintaining reliability across varying network qualities.
2Measurement precision
If PTP compatible devices optimized for direct cable connection are deployed in network environments, then synchronization performance is maximized for direct connections, but synchronization fails or becomes inaccurate in poor network environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent defines network environment resistance index information that captures how PTP compatible devices perform under various network conditions. This parameter enables systematic selection and configuration of devices that are adapted to specific network environments, transforming a one-size-fits-all approach into an environment-matched deployment strategy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic determination of master/slave relationships and domain changes based on network environment resistance index information. This allows the time synchronization system to adapt its configuration dynamically according to actual network conditions, rather than relying on static pre-configurations.
3Measurement precision
If BC function is enabled in PTP compatible devices, then packet delay jitter can be removed, but synchronization cannot be performed in poor network environments where packet drop rate is high or delay jitter is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces network environment resistance index information that evaluates the suitability of enabling BC function under different network conditions. By referencing this index information, the system can make informed decisions about whether to enable BC function, thereby balancing jitter removal capability with synchronization reliability in poor network environments.
Data Source
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AI summary
There is provided an information processing apparatus that processes information regarding network environment resistance when performing time synchronization of devices. An information processing apparatus includes a control unit that associates a boundary clock function retaining device having a boundary clock function with network environment resistance index information indicating resistance to a network environment related to time synchronization of the boundary clock function retaining device. The network environment resistance index information is information indicating accuracy of the time synchronization of the boundary clock function retaining device corresponding to network environment information indicating the network environment.