TSN Path Selection Using Transmission Frequency and Port Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing industrial communication methods, such as PROFINET, struggle to integrate with Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) protocols, particularly when transitioning from lower link speeds to higher speeds like 1 Gbit/s, due to the lack of consideration for transmission frequencies and port utilization in path determination.
Innovation Solution
The method involves accounting for transmission frequencies and port utilization when determining paths for data communication in industrial networks, using variables like reduction ratios and phase-specific load information to optimize path selection, potentially eliminating the need for additional protocols like MRP or LRP by utilizing an IS-IS database for topology and load information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If transmission frequencies and port utilization are not considered in path determination, then the path selection process is simple, but the number of available paths and efficiency in TSN-capable networks is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing port utilization information for different transmission clocks in a database before path determination is needed. Network nodes announce their port utilization status in advance, allowing the path determination process to efficiently query pre-prepared information rather than calculating utilization in real-time, thus increasing the number of available paths without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism by using a database as a mediator between port utilization information and path determination. The database stores and manages utilization data from multiple network nodes, allowing path determination to access consolidated information without direct complex interactions between nodes, thereby enabling more paths to be identified efficiently
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional protocols like MRP or LRP are used for path determination, then path selection can consider transmission frequencies, but the device complexity and protocol overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the path determination functionality with existing IS-IS database mechanisms already present in TSN networks. Instead of introducing separate MRP or LRP protocols, the invention integrates transmission frequency and utilization information into the existing IS-IS database structure, allowing path determination to consider TSN requirements while utilizing already-deployed protocol infrastructure, thus reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing a database structure that serves multiple functions: it stores topology information, port utilization data, and transmission clock information all in one centralized repository. This multi-functional database can serve various path determination needs without requiring separate specialized protocols for each type of information, thereby reducing protocol overhead while maintaining adaptability to TSN standards
3Reliability
If port utilization information for all transmission clocks is stored and considered, then bandwidth and latency requirements can be ensured, but the data management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having network nodes pre-announce their port utilization information for different transmission clocks before path determination occurs. This advance notification allows the system to know in advance which ports are available for specific transmission frequencies, enabling reliable bandwidth guarantee without the complexity of real-time calculation and negotiation during path setup
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by having network nodes continuously announce their port utilization status to the network. This feedback mechanism provides up-to-date information about available bandwidth and transmission clock usage, allowing the path determination process to make reliable decisions based on current network state without requiring complex centralized control or real-time monitoring overhead
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for data communication in a network having a plurality of network nodes (1), in which method data packets (P1-P3) are to be transferred between communication partners (2) over protected connections, wherein the data packets (P1-P3) originate from at least two different sending communication partners (2), or senders, and wherein the sending frequencies of at least two senders (2), at which said senders send data packets (P1-P3) that are to be transferred over a protected connection, differ from one another, the sending frequencies and/or variables representing same being taken into account when finding a path for the transfer of the data packets (P1-P3) of at least one protected connection. The invention also relates to a computer program.