PTP Profile Conversion for End-to-End and Peer-to-Peer Sync
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing precision time protocol (PTP) systems fail to synchronize clocks between devices using different transmission delay measurement methods, such as End-to-End and Peer-to-Peer, leading to separate time distribution networks and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A conversion device that converts the transmission delay measurement method of an upper device to that of a lower device, utilizing Sync, Follow_Up, Delay_Req, Delay_Resp, Pdelay_Req, and Pdelay_Resp messages to synchronize clocks across devices with different methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate time distribution networks are built for each transmission delay measurement method, then time synchronization accuracy is maintained, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a profile conversion device as an intermediary between devices using different transmission delay measurement methods (End-to-End and Peer-to-Peer). This mediator converts messages between the two protocols, enabling time synchronization without requiring separate networks for each method, thus maintaining accuracy while reducing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The profile conversion device performs multiple functions: it acts as both an End-to-End device and a Peer-to-Peer device, converting messages bidirectionally between the two transmission delay measurement methods. This multi-functionality allows a single device to serve multiple protocol requirements, eliminating the need for separate networks
2Reliability
If separate time distribution networks are built for each transmission delay measurement method, then time synchronization compatibility is maintained, but equipment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of separate End-to-End and Peer-to-Peer networks into a single unified network by introducing a profile conversion device. This device enables devices using different transmission delay measurement methods to communicate and synchronize time within the same network, reducing the total number of networks and associated equipment costs
3Adaptability or versatility
If different transmission delay measurement methods are used between upper and lower devices, then device functionality is preserved, but time synchronization fails
Solution Approach 1:
The profile conversion device serves as a mediator that translates between End-to-End and Peer-to-Peer transmission delay measurement methods. This allows upper and lower devices to maintain their original functionality and measurement methods while the converter ensures accurate time synchronization by converting messages between the two protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the protocol parameters (transmission delay measurement method) at the profile conversion device. The device receives messages with one measurement method parameter, converts them to the other method, and transmits them, thereby enabling time synchronization while preserving device functionality
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A conversion device (100) includes a Sync message processing unit (11), a Follow_Up message processing unit (12), a Delay_Req message processing unit (13), a Delay_Resp message processing unit (14), a Pdelay_Req message processing unit (21), a Pdelay_Resp message processing unit (22), a Pdelay_Resp_Follow_Up message processing unit (23), an upper-side transmission delay calculation unit (40) that calculates a transmission delay time pt1 between a master device (200) and the conversion device (100), an internal processing time calculation unit (50) that calculates an internal processing time of the conversion device (100), and a CF processing unit (60) that stores a total value of pt1 and the internal processing time in a Follow_Up message.