Time Sync Route Selection via Performance Index
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current time synchronization techniques in 5G mobile communication networks face challenges in optimizing route selection when apparatuses with different precision classes are present, leading to suboptimal time synchronization precision due to the lack of consideration for varying apparatus performances.
Innovation Solution
A time synchronization route selection apparatus that calculates a determination index for each route based on performance information from upstream apparatuses, including precision classes and measured time differences, to select the most optimal route for packet transmission and reception, thereby reflecting performance information in the selection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the number of high-performance GNSS receivers is increased, then time synchronization precision is improved, but cost increases accordingly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple PTP packet transmission paths into a unified time synchronization system, where multiple upstream master nodes provide time information through different routes. This allows the system to aggregate time reference points and improve synchronization precision without requiring additional GNSS receivers at each location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables ordinary network nodes to function as time synchronization relays by implementing PTP protocol capabilities in standard network equipment. This multi-functional approach allows existing network infrastructure to participate in time synchronization, eliminating the need for dedicated high-performance GNSS receivers at every node.
2Reliability
If PTP packets are transmitted through multiple routes, then reliability is improved through route duplication, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the time synchronization route selection apparatus calculates determination indices based on performance information from upstream apparatuses and selects optimal routes dynamically. This feedback loop enables automatic route optimization without manual configuration, managing complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic route selection capability that adapts to changing network conditions by continuously evaluating performance information and adjusting route choices. This dynamic approach allows the system to maintain reliable time synchronization even when network topology or performance characteristics change.
3Ease of operation
If route selection is based solely on number of hops, then ease of operation is improved, but time synchronization precision deteriorates when apparatuses with different precision classes are present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the route selection parameter from simple hop count to a determination index that incorporates performance information including precision classes of apparatuses. This parameter transformation maintains ease of operation through automated calculation while significantly improving time synchronization precision by considering the actual capabilities of network elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual or simple hop-based route selection with an automated determination index calculation system that processes performance information from upstream apparatuses. This substitution eliminates the need for complex manual configuration while achieving precision-optimized route selection through systematic evaluation of network conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
[Problem to be Solved] Optimizing a route of time synchronization in a network including apparatuses with different types of precision classes.[Solution to the Problem] A time transmission system includes BC nodes 200 with different types of apparatus performances, and multiple routes of PTP packets from GM nodes 101 and 102 to a BC node 220 via the BC node 200 are present. Each BC node 200 located upstream on a route performs notification of performance information indicating its apparatus performance to the BC node 200 located downstream with respect thereto. The BC node 220 includes a determination index calculation unit 11 that calculates a determination index for each route by referencing the performance information notified from the BC nodes 200 located upstream on each route, and a route selection unit 12 that selects a route for transmitting and receiving PTP packets from multiple routes of PTP packets to the BC node 220, based on the calculated determination index for each route.