Multi-Layer Timing Switch Fabric for Redundant Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Network-connected processing systems face challenges in efficiently distributing and managing timing information across multiple processing blades, particularly in ensuring synchronization and redundancy in the presence of clock failures or signal disruptions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multi-layer configurable timing switch fabrics and methods that selectively distribute multiple timing sources to multiple timing consumers, using configurable timing switches at central and local levels within the system, allowing for flexible timing source management and generation of timing information based on network communications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a master timing source is distributed to all processing blades, then synchronization across the system is improved, but the system becomes vulnerable to single points of failure and signal disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the timing distribution system into multiple independent layers: a central timing switch fabric and multiple local timing switch fabrics within processing blades. This segmentation allows timing sources to be distributed through multiple paths, eliminating single points of failure while maintaining synchronization. Each layer can independently select and distribute timing sources, providing both reliability and configurability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic changing of timing source parameters and distribution configurations through programmable timing switches. The system can reconfigure which timing sources are active, how they are distributed, and the operational mode (synchronized vs. independent) based on system conditions, thereby adapting to different scenarios while maintaining reliability.
2Ease of operation
If each processing blade uses independent local timing sources, then autonomy and operational independence are improved, but system-wide synchronization and coordination deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic timing source selection and distribution modes. Processing blades can operate in synchronized mode (using master timing sources for system-wide coordination) or independent mode (using local timing sources for autonomy), with the ability to switch between modes based on operational requirements. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction between autonomy and synchronization.
3Reliability
If multiple timing sources are distributed to multiple timing consumers, then redundancy and fault tolerance are improved, but the complexity of timing source management and distribution increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces central and local timing switch fabrics as intermediary components that manage timing source distribution. These switch fabrics act as intelligent mediators that handle the complexity of selecting, routing, and managing multiple timing sources to multiple consumers. By offloading management complexity to these intermediary switching structures, the system achieves high fault tolerance without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If configurable timing switches are implemented at central and local levels, then timing source distribution flexibility is improved, but the device complexity and configuration management burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal timing switch fabric structures that can perform multiple functions: distributing timing sources, selecting active timing sources, switching between synchronized and independent modes, and providing backup timing paths. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby achieving high adaptability without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Multi-layer configurable timing switch fabrics and related methods are disclosed for selectively distributing multiple timing sources to multiple timing consumers. Configurable timing switches are used at central and multiple local levels within the housing for a network-connected processing system to selectively distribute the timing sources to the timing consumers. As such, significant flexibility is provided with respect to what timing sources can be received within the system and how these timing sources are distributed to different timing consumers. Further, timing information can be generated within the network-connected processing system based upon network communications received from timing consumers, and this generated timing information can also be used as timing sources for the multi-layer configurable timing switch fabric.