Dynamic Codec Pair Selection for Network Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital communication networks face challenges in selecting optimal codecs for transmission, as existing codecs may perform poorly under varying network conditions, leading to inconsistent quality of service (QoS) and necessitating the use of transcoding to adapt between different network standards.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a network node with communication interfaces to obtain performance metrics from connected networks, generate a codec selection model based on these metrics, and select compatible codecs for endpoints to ensure optimal communication sessions by adapting to current network conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a codec is selected to provide excellent QoS under normal network load, then quality of service is improved, but quality of service declines to unacceptable levels under demanding network conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic codec selection by continuously monitoring network conditions (packet loss, jitter, delay) and adapting the chosen codec pair accordingly. The system transitions from static codec selection to dynamic adaptation, allowing the codec pair to change based on real-time network state, thus maintaining reliable service across varying conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters by selecting different codec pairs with varying characteristics (bitrate, robustness, compression) based on network conditions. Under normal conditions, higher quality codecs are selected, while under demanding conditions, more robust codecs with better error resilience are chosen, thereby maintaining acceptable QoS across different network states
2Reliability
If a codec is selected to provide acceptable QoS under demanding network conditions, then reliable service is maintained, but excellent QoS cannot be provided even under ideal network conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the quality ceiling by selecting different codec pairs based on network conditions. Under ideal conditions, codecs capable of excellent QoS are selected, while under demanding conditions, the system settles for acceptable QoS. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to achieve high quality ceilings when possible while maintaining reliability when necessary
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes codec parameters (bitrate, complexity, robustness) based on network conditions. When network conditions permit, codecs with higher quality parameters are selected to achieve excellent QoS. When conditions deteriorate, the system transitions to codecs with parameters optimized for reliability, thus dynamically adjusting the quality ceiling to match network capabilities
3Adaptability or versatility
If different codecs are used by providers in different networks, then network compatibility is achieved, but transcoding is required which increases system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary codec pair selection during call setup based on predicted or historical network conditions. By pre-selecting compatible codec pairs that match the characteristics of both networks, the system reduces the need for runtime transcoding operations, thereby decreasing system complexity while maintaining compatibility across different provider networks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a codec selection model as an intermediary that mediates between the requirements of different network providers. This model analyzes network characteristics and selects codec pairs that are compatible with both networks, reducing the need for transcoding by finding common ground between different network standards and requirements
Data Source
AI summary
A method for selecting a codec pair includes obtaining a first performance metric indicating a condition of a first network connected to the network node via a first communication interface, the first network including a first endpoint. A second performance metric indicating a condition of a second network connected to the network node via a second communication interface is obtained. The second network includes a second endpoint. A codec selection model is generated or updated based on the first and second performance metrics. A first codec is selected from a plurality of codecs compatible with the first endpoint based on the codec selection model. A second codec is selected from a plurality of codecs compatible with the second endpoint based on the codec selection model. The first and second codecs are used to communicate a portion of a communication session between the first endpoint and the second endpoint.