ATM Intra-Cell Delay Analysis via Histogram Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network testing systems, such as the Agilent Technologies J6800 series, are inadequate for quantifying and presenting cell arrival times, making it difficult for users to manage contract parameters effectively for both constant-bit-rate and variable-bit-rate traffic in ATM networks, relying heavily on trial and error for ideal contract parameters.
Innovation Solution
A test and measurement system that measures and quantifies intra-cell delay times across an ATM network using a graphical representation, with counters to track delta time intervals and display the results in a histogram format, allowing users to visualize and understand traffic patterns and compliance with negotiated QoS parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional GCRA-based cell delay variation measurement is used, then measurement capability is provided for CBR applications, but the measurement is not useful for VBR applications and does not quantify traffic effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic measurement capabilities that adapt to different traffic types (CBR and VBR) by switching between fixed-rate GCRA analysis and variable-rate histogram analysis, allowing the measurement system to adjust its behavior based on the negotiated cell rates and traffic characteristics
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the measurement approach into two distinct methods: traditional GCRA-based measurement for CBR applications and new histogram-based intra-cell delay measurement for VBR applications, allowing each method to be optimized for its specific traffic type while maintaining overall system versatility
2Ease of operation
If trial and error method is used to establish ideal contract parameters, then contract setup is possible, but the process is inefficient and does not provide clear guidance for parameter optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where measurement results (histogram data showing actual cell arrival patterns) are presented to users to guide their selection of contract parameters, replacing trial-and-error with informed decision-making based on observed traffic characteristics
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical trial-and-error process with an automated measurement and visualization system that objectively quantifies traffic patterns and provides data-driven guidance for parameter selection, eliminating the need for iterative manual adjustment
3Loss of information
If detailed cell arrival time analysis is implemented, then traffic pattern visualization is improved, but system complexity and measurement overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified graphical representation (histogram) that copies and visualizes the essential characteristics of cell arrival patterns without requiring complex real-time analysis of every individual cell, maintaining information fidelity while reducing processing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from individual cell delay values to binned histogram distributions, transforming detailed temporal information into a more manageable visual format that preserves traffic pattern characteristics while reducing data complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus for analyzing intra-cell delay times. The delay time between cells is measured and the number of times the measured delay times equals each of a plurality of predefined values is calculated. A graph is displayed indicating the count for each of the plurality of predefined values.