Edge Analytics for Cable Modems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable networks lack the capability for effective edge analytics, which hinders the identification and resolution of network performance issues before they impact service reliability and customer satisfaction.
Innovation Solution
Embedding or co-locating devices with increasing computation and storage capacity into or with cable modems to facilitate edge analytics, enabling real-time visibility into network performance and reducing the burden on the service provider network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional cable networks operate without edge analytics capabilities, then network simplicity is maintained, but network reliability and service performance deteriorate due to inability to identify and resolve issues proactively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into edge locations (CPE devices, cable modems) and central locations (service provider network). By distributing analytics capabilities to edge segments, the system achieves local issue identification without requiring complex centralized processing, thus improving reliability while managing complexity through segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces edge analytics devices as intermediaries between CPE devices and the service provider network. These intermediaries perform measurement and analysis locally, acting as mediators that reduce the complexity burden on the central network while enabling proactive issue resolution, thereby improving network reliability.
2Measurement precision
If measurement and analysis are performed at the network edge, then real-time visibility into network performance is achieved, but device complexity and computational requirements at edge locations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different levels of analytics capability to different network elements. Edge devices receive tailored measurement and analysis capabilities appropriate to their function, rather than uniform complex processing throughout the network. This enables real-time visibility where needed while maintaining simplicity where sufficient.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial action by providing measurement and analysis capabilities only where necessary for proactive issue resolution, rather than comprehensive processing throughout the entire network. Edge devices perform sufficient analytics locally without requiring excessive computational capacity, balancing visibility needs with device complexity.
3Productivity
If more computation and storage capacity is embedded in cable modems, then edge analytics capability is improved, but device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by embedding measurement and analysis capabilities in cable modems and CPE devices before issues impact service. This proactive approach enables early detection and resolution of problems, improving productivity through enhanced edge analytics capability while the capabilities are integrated in a way that manages device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling cable modems and edge devices to perform multiple functions including data communication, measurement, analysis, and proactive issue resolution. This universal capability approach improves edge analytics productivity while managing complexity through consolidation of functions in existing devices rather than adding separate specialized components.
4Loss of time
If traditional cable networks lack edge analytics, then device simplicity is maintained, but loss of time for issue resolution increases due to reactive rather than proactive problem fixing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implementing measurement and analysis capabilities at edge locations that enable proactive identification of issues before they impact service. This preliminary detection capability reduces the time lost to reactive problem resolution, as issues are addressed in advance while the network maintains relative simplicity through distributed rather than centralized complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Edge analytics and other processes for assessing performance of network elements operating at an edge or other remote access point of a service provider network is contemplated. The edge analytics may be facilitated with edge devices connected, embedded or otherwise associated with the network elements collecting data, metrics or other information reflective of the performance thereof.