Data Transfer Rate Estimation via Spatial Interpolation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Determining the maximum achievable data transfer rate in a network connection is challenging due to unknown transmission properties of the last link between the data network and the customer, making practical measurements impractical and effort-intensive.

Innovation Solution

The method involves determining the maximum data transfer rate for nearby connection points in a wired network by averaging, interpolating, or extrapolating based on measured rates from geographically close subscriber connections, and for wireless networks, by averaging or extrapolating data transfer rates from nearby locations, using mathematical mapping functions to estimate the rate at any given location.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If measurements are performed to determine the maximum achievable data transfer rate, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to considerable effort and customer involvement required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer rate determination accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement practicality
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs measurements at multiple preliminary locations before the actual service location to establish a spatial model of data transfer rates. By conducting these measurements in advance and creating a mathematical model of the transmission properties, the system eliminates the need for time-consuming on-site measurements when a customer actually needs service, thus improving ease of operation while maintaining measurement precision through the pre-established model.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If transmission properties of the last link are determined through measurements, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to the measurement system requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer rate determination accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a mathematical model (copy) of the transmission properties based on measurements taken at multiple locations. Instead of requiring complex measurement equipment and procedures at every service location, the system uses a simplified computational model that replicates the transmission characteristics. This copying approach maintains reliability by accurately representing the physical transmission properties while dramatically reducing device complexity at the point of service.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Adaptability or versatility

If data transfer rates are determined for multiple locations, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases due to the extensive measurement process

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice coverage flexibilityVSAvoidmeasurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs measurements at multiple locations in advance to build a comprehensive spatial model of data transfer rates across the service area. By conducting these measurements preliminarily and storing the results in a mathematical model, the system enables rapid determination of appropriate service levels for any location within the coverage area without requiring time-consuming on-site measurements, thus improving adaptability while reducing time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP2249485B1Method for determining a data transfer rate
Publication Date: 2013.04.17 VODAFONE HOLDING GMBH
  • EP2249485B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2249485B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The method involves measuring a data transfer rate at a connection point of a line network, where the connection point is in proximity with another connection point. Data transfer rate at the latter connection point is determined based on the measured data transfer rate. The former connection point is connected with a cable distributor (5a). A local area network determining point (2) is connected with a core network (3) of a network operator and is connected with an Internet or another core network of another network operator. An independent claim is also included for a data carrier with a stored program for determining a data transfer rate.