Fault Detection Using Round Trip Time Thresholds

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fault detection methods in wireless networks fail to efficiently distinguish between network-level and user equipment-level faults, leading to unnecessary resource allocation and delayed fault resolution.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that enables user devices to initiate queries for performance degradation, allowing network servers to receive and analyze round trip time (RTT) reports, determine if they exceed a threshold, and isolate faults by determining if the issue lies with user equipment or network equipment, thereby enabling automated troubleshooting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional fault detection methods are used, then faults can be detected, but it is difficult to distinguish between network-level and user equipment-level faults

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefault location precisionVSAvoidfault detection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the fault detection process into two distinct parts: network-level fault detection and user equipment-level fault detection. This is achieved by dividing the measurement function between the network device (which measures RTT) and the user device (which receives queries and sends responses). The segmentation allows precise identification of fault location without requiring complex analysis at a single point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces RTT (round trip time) measurements as an intermediary metric to indirectly determine fault location. Instead of directly identifying faults, the system measures the time for signals to travel between network and user device, then uses threshold comparisons to infer whether faults exist at network or user equipment level. This intermediary approach simplifies the detection mechanism while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If manual fault isolation procedures are used, then faults can be identified, but resource allocation is inefficient and fault resolution is delayed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefault resolution efficiencyVSAvoidfault isolation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service fault detection where the user device actively participates by receiving queries from the network device and sending back responses. The user device essentially services its own fault detection needs by cooperating with RTT measurements, eliminating the need for manual intervention or complex external diagnostic tools. This self-service approach accelerates fault resolution while optimizing resource allocation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary RTT measurements and threshold comparisons automatically as part of the normal operation flow. By pre-establishing threshold values for RTT and continuously monitoring measurements against these thresholds, the system proactively identifies faults before they significantly impact service. This preliminary action prevents delays in fault resolution and enables timely resource allocation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If comprehensive fault analysis is performed, then accurate fault identification is achieved, but system resources are unnecessarily consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefault detection accuracyVSAvoidnetwork resource consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by performing only the necessary RTT measurements and threshold comparisons required for fault detection, rather than conducting comprehensive diagnostics. The system measures RTT and compares it against predefined thresholds to determine fault location, avoiding more resource-intensive analysis methods unless absolutely necessary. This partial approach maintains detection accuracy while minimizing resource consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses parameter changes by monitoring RTT values against threshold parameters to detect faults. Instead of analyzing multiple complex parameters simultaneously, the system focuses on changes in the RTT parameter and compares it against predetermined threshold values. This single-parameter approach with clear thresholds achieves reliable fault detection while consuming minimal network and device resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8531973B2Method and system for fault detection using round trip time
Publication Date: 2013.09.10 RAKUTEN GROUP INC
  • US8531973B2 patent drawing
  • US8531973B2 patent drawing
  • US8531973B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer readable storage medium stores a set of instructions executable by a processor. The set of instructions is operable to receive, from a user device, a query relating to a degradation of performance of the device within a network; receive, from a transceiver station, a record relating to a time to send data to the device; and identify the existence of an error in the device based on a determination that the time is greater than a predetermined threshold.