Dynamic Test Vector Performance Map for Network Traffic

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current performance testing methods struggle to accurately determine the performance of various types and configurations of voice and data traffic through communications paths, as standard static test patterns and special treatment of test packets can lead to inaccurate results.

Innovation Solution

A system and method utilizing test coordination language vectors to generate and simulate traffic through test vectors, which are communicated to end devices to measure performance attributes, creating a performance map that accurately characterizes network performance across different traffic types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If standard static test patterns are used, then testing is simple and standardized, but accuracy in determining performance of different traffic types is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of performance measurementVSAvoidcomplexity of test pattern
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static test patterns to dynamic test vectors that can adapt their characteristics based on real-time network conditions. The test vectors modify their parameters (such as packet size, interval, and type) dynamically to match actual traffic patterns, thereby improving measurement accuracy without requiring permanently complex test infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention utilizes parameter changes by varying multiple test vector parameters including packet size, transmission interval, protocol type, and priority levels. These parameter variations enable comprehensive testing of different traffic configurations, allowing accurate performance measurement across diverse traffic types while maintaining a unified test framework.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If test packets are given special priority or treated specially, then test packets can be transmitted reliably, but results become inaccurate as users can game the system

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereliability of test packet transmissionVSAvoidaccuracy of performance results
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs copying by creating test vectors that replicate actual user traffic characteristics rather than using specially prioritized test packets. By copying the properties of real traffic (packet sizes, intervals, protocols, priority levels), the system measures performance under authentic conditions without allowing users to game the system with specially treated test packets.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The test system practices self-service by automatically adapting test vector characteristics to match observed traffic patterns without requiring special prioritization or manual configuration. The system serves itself by dynamically adjusting its own test parameters based on network conditions, ensuring both reliability and accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple traffic types and configurations are tested, then comprehensive performance information is obtained, but testing complexity and coordination requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage of traffic types testedVSAvoidcomplexity of test coordination
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements universality through a single test vector framework that can perform multiple testing functions simultaneously. The same test vector mechanism handles various traffic types (voice, data, video), different protocols, and multiple priority levels, eliminating the need for separate specialized test systems for each traffic type and reducing overall coordination complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9210050B2System and method for a testing vector and associated performance map
Publication Date: 2015.12.08 CENTURYLINK INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LLC
  • US9210050B2 patent drawing
  • US9210050B2 patent drawing
  • US9210050B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for testing line state. Traffic through a communications path is determined. A test vector is generated. Attributes of the test vector simulate the traffic. The test vector is communicated to one or more end devices. Performance information for each of the attributes of the test vector is measured. A performance map utilizing the attributes and the performance information is generated.