Dynamic Interleave Depth Control for Low-Latency Cable Modems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing broadband data distribution systems, such as cable modem networks, face challenges in optimizing data interleaving depths across devices due to static settings, leading to increased latency for most devices and unacceptably high unrecoverable packets from burst noise for a subset of devices.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a dynamic interleave depth setting system that classifies devices and adjusts interleaving depths based on noise interference, allowing for individual or group-specific settings, and distributing interleave maps to devices to manage burst noise effectively without interrupting data flow.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If higher interleave depths are used, then data loss due to burst noise is reduced, but latency increases for all devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata loss reductionVSAvoidlatency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by assigning different interleave depths to different cable modems based on their specific noise conditions. Instead of using a uniform interleave depth for all devices, the system tailors the interleave depth to each device's environment, allowing devices in noisy areas to use higher interleave depths for reliability while devices in quiet areas use lower interleave depths to minimize latency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics by making interleave depths adjustable and adaptable over time. The system can modify interleave depths based on changing noise conditions and device requirements, transitioning from static to dynamic configuration. This allows the system to optimize performance as conditions change without requiring complete reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Loss of time

If lower interleave depths are used, then latency is reduced, but unrecoverable packets due to burst noise increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovelatencyVSAvoidunrecoverable packets
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies local quality by assessing individual noise conditions for each cable modem and assigning appropriate interleave depths. Devices experiencing minimal burst noise can use lower interleave depths to achieve low latency, while devices in noisy environments receive higher interleave depths to prevent unrecoverable packets, thus optimizing both latency and reliability locally.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs parameter changes by adjusting the interleave depth parameter based on measured noise conditions. The system monitors burst noise levels and dynamically modifies the interleave depth parameter to achieve optimal performance, changing this critical parameter to balance latency and packet recovery based on actual environmental conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If statically set interleave depth is used for all devices, then system complexity is reduced, but performance optimization is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterleave depth managementVSAvoiddata transmission efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by enabling cable modems to autonomously measure their own burst noise conditions and determine appropriate interleave depths without constant centralized control. Each device can self-assess its environment and self-adjust its parameters, reducing the complexity of centralized management while improving overall network performance through localized optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system applies feedback by continuously monitoring noise conditions and using this information to adjust interleave depths. The centralized network control system receives feedback about device performance and noise levels, then modifies interleave depth assignments accordingly. This feedback loop enables dynamic optimization of data transmission efficiency while maintaining manageable system complexity through automated control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS8775900B2Variable interleave data transmission
Publication Date: 2014.07.08 ADEIA MEDIA HOLDINGS INC
  • US8775900B2 patent drawing
  • US8775900B2 patent drawing
  • US8775900B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In cable modem termination systems (CMTS) and other information transmission systems, a method for changing the interleave depth associated with each data stream is provided. This may be done dynamically, and for any subset of downstream devices such as modems. The interleave depth may be set on an individual device level. Embodiments may decrease data receiving latency on devices that do not suffer from error rates, such as caused by burst noise, while maintaining throughput on devices with high error rates.