Timing Interface Module with Daughter Reference Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network communication systems face challenges in providing external timing signals for synchronous and data signals, particularly in SONET networks, which are not compatible with other data systems like Ethernet or ATM, requiring a solution that complies with industry standards and eliminates the need for extensive cabling and hardware integration.
Innovation Solution
A timing interface module with daughter timing reference modules is provided, which includes a face plate with mounting slots for timing modules that offer timing terminations for network elements, eliminating routing issues and ensuring compliance with industry standards, and can be mounted in a rack platform to integrate with optical transport systems, providing synchronization without external cabling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external timing connections are provided for SONET networks, then synchronization accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cabling requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple timing reference modules into a single integrated timing interface module that provides both primary and secondary timing references. This merging eliminates the need for separate external timing connections while maintaining synchronization accuracy through internal signal distribution to multiple network elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The timing interface module is designed with universal functionality to serve multiple network elements simultaneously. It provides timing references to both SONET and data systems through a single module, eliminating the need for separate timing connections for each network element and reducing overall cabling complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple timing reference modules are integrated in a rack platform, then adaptability to different network elements is improved, but mounting complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The timing interface module is segmented into separate daughter timing reference modules that can be independently mounted in rack positions. Each daughter module can be configured for specific network elements, providing adaptability while simplifying mounting through modular installation rather than integrating all functions in a single complex unit.
3Ease of operation
If timing modules are mounted in rack positions, then ease of installation is improved, but routing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The timing interface module acts as an intermediary between external timing sources and multiple network elements. It receives timing signals through a single external connection and internally distributes them to various daughter modules and network elements, eliminating complex external routing while maintaining ease of installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A timing interface module installs within a rack to increase bandwidth. The timing interface module receives a reference timing signal and outputs the reference timing signal to an optical multiplexer. The optical multiplexer also receives multiple data streams of different formats, and the optical multiplexer synchronizes the multiple data streams to the reference timing signal.