Network Switch Delay Field Update Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network clock synchronization methods require complex time stamp handling and storage, increasing costs and complexity in network switches, as they need to maintain arrival and departure times to update delay fields in synchronization packets.
Innovation Solution
A method where a network switch updates the delay field of synchronization packets by calculating the difference between the packet's arrival and departure times internally, eliminating the need for external time stamp storage by performing all delay-related calculations directly within the packet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex time stamp handling and storage is used to update delay fields in synchronization packets, then measurement precision of network delay is improved, but device complexity and memory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the delay measurement function from complex external time stamp storage mechanisms and consolidates it into a simplified delay field within the synchronization packet itself. The network element stores only the current delay value in a register, eliminating the need for complex arrival and departure time stamp storage and handling, while maintaining accurate delay measurement for synchronization purposes.
2Reliability
If arrival and departure times are stored externally to update delay fields, then reliability of delay calculation is improved, but loss of substance (memory resources) increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the delay calculation function with the synchronization packet structure by incorporating a delay field directly into the packet. The network element maintains only a single register storing the current delay value, combining what would otherwise require separate storage for arrival times, departure times, and delay calculations into a unified, memory-efficient structure that preserves calculation reliability.
3Measurement precision
If complex time stamp storage mechanisms are implemented, then measurement precision of synchronization is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The network element performs delay measurement autonomously using a simple register that automatically stores the current delay value. The synchronization packet self-updates its delay field through direct interaction with this register, eliminating the need for complex manufactured components for time stamp storage and handling, thereby simplifying network switch manufacturing while maintaining high synchronization precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes receiving in a network element a packet, which includes a delay field that indicates an overall time delay accumulated by the packet until arriving at the network element. Upon receiving the packet, an interim value is substituted in the delay field. The interim value is indicative of a difference between the overall time delay and an arrival time of the packet at the network element. Before sending the packet from the network element, the overall time delay is updated in the delay field based on the interim value and on a departure time at which the packet is to exit the network element. The packet, including the updated overall time delay, is transmitted from the network element.