Synchronization Network Clock Configuration Loop Prevention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current synchronization network configurations face challenges in efficiently managing clock synchronization across various topologies and preventing clock loops, especially with the increasing complexity of telecommunications networks due to evolving technologies like SDH, ATM, CDMA, and IP protocols.

Innovation Solution

A configuration method and apparatus for synchronization networks that determine network topology and the number of external clocks, allowing for clock configuration in ring and chain topologies, including single and double point injections, and shortest-path methods to prevent clock loops by establishing main and standby operation nodes and extraction paths.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional synchronization network configuration methods are used, then network simplicity is maintained, but the ability to handle complex topologies and prevent clock loops deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclock loop preventionVSAvoidnetwork topology complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically determining network topology and identifying external clock sources before configuration occurs. The configuration apparatus proactively establishes extraction paths and assigns operation/standby roles based on pre-analyzed topology information, preventing clock loops before they can form rather than reacting to them after occurrence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the configuration apparatus continuously monitors network status, topology changes, and clock synchronization states. Based on this feedback, the system dynamically adjusts extraction paths, reassigns operation/standby roles, and modifies synchronization parameters to maintain loop-free operation across evolving network topologies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If manual clock configuration is used, then configuration simplicity is maintained, but configuration accuracy and reliability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclock configuration accuracyVSAvoidconfiguration operation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The configuration apparatus performs self-service by automatically determining network topology, identifying external clock sources, calculating extraction paths, and assigning operation/standby roles without requiring manual intervention. The system autonomously generates complete synchronization configurations based on detected network conditions, eliminating manual configuration errors while maintaining operational simplicity through automated decision-making.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual mechanical configuration processes with automated electronic detection and calculation mechanisms. The configuration apparatus uses electronic topology detection, automated path calculation algorithms, and digital role assignment mechanisms to substitute for manual configuration operations, thereby improving accuracy while maintaining ease of use through automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If single point injection is used, then configuration simplicity is maintained, but system reliability and redundancy deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclock synchronization reliabilityVSAvoidconfiguration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamic configuration that adapts between single point injection and multiple point injection modes based on network requirements and topology. The configuration apparatus dynamically determines the optimal injection mode, automatically adjusts extraction paths, and reassigns operation/standby roles in real-time, allowing the system to transition between simplified and redundant configurations as needed without manual reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The configuration apparatus provides universal functionality by handling multiple injection scenarios (single point, multiple points, different topologies) through a single unified system. The same apparatus automatically adapts its behavior based on detected network conditions, providing both simple and redundant configurations as needed, eliminating the need for separate systems for different injection modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Measurement precision

If automated topology determination is implemented, then configuration accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetopology detection precisionVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The configuration apparatus performs self-service topology determination by automatically detecting network conditions, identifying external clock sources, and mapping extraction paths without requiring external detection systems. The system uses its own integrated detection capabilities to acquire topology information and generate configurations, eliminating the need for separate complex detection infrastructure while maintaining high measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3282605B1Configuration method and apparatus for synchronization network
Publication Date: 2023.07.05 ZTE CORP
  • EP3282605B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3282605B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4(a)
  • EP3282605B1 patent drawingFigure 4(b)~4(c)

AI summary

A configuration method and apparatus for a synchronization network and a computer-readable storage medium. The configuration apparatus for a synchronization network comprises an information acquisition module, which is configured to at least determine the following information: a topological structure of the synchronization network and the number of external clocks enabled by the synchronization network, and a clock configuration module, which is configured to perform clock configuration on the synchronization network according to the determined information.