M-CMTS MAP Message Timing Adjustment via UEQAM Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Modular Cable Modem Termination System (M-CMTS) environments, the variable delay between the M-CMTS Core and the Universal Edge QAM (UEQAM) complicates the timely delivery of MAP messages, leading to increased request-grant latency and jitter, as existing systems lack feedback mechanisms to dynamically adjust MAP message advance time.
Innovation Solution
A closed-loop feedback system is implemented, where the UEQAM monitors and analyzes MAP messages, providing timing feedback to the M-CMTS Core to dynamically adjust MAP message advance time, optimizing delay and reducing round-trip request-grant latencies through the DEPI L2TPv3 Control Plane interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If MAP messages are sent with fixed advance time in M-CMTS systems, then system configuration is simplified, but delivery timeliness deteriorates due to variable network delay
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the UEQAM monitors the actual delivery time of MAP messages and reports timing information back to the M-CMTS Core. This closed-loop feedback enables the system to dynamically adjust MAP advance time based on actual network conditions, resolving the contradiction between fixed configuration simplicity and variable delivery timeliness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a static, fixed MAP advance time configuration to a dynamic adjustment mechanism. The M-CMTS Core automatically adjusts the MAP advance time parameter based on feedback from the UEQAM, allowing the system to adapt to variable network delays while maintaining optimal performance.
2Reliability
If MAP message advance time is increased to ensure timely delivery, then delivery reliability improves, but request-grant latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback mechanism monitors actual MAP message delivery timing and provides real-time information about network delay conditions. This allows the system to determine the minimum necessary advance time required for reliable delivery under current conditions, rather than using a conservative fixed value that increases latency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes the MAP advance time parameter based on monitored network conditions. By adjusting this parameter in real-time, the system optimizes the balance between delivery reliability and request-grant latency, using the smallest necessary advance time to ensure reliable delivery.
3Ease of operation
If manual configuration of MAP timing is used, then system control is straightforward, but adaptability to network conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service through automatic timing adjustment. The M-CMTS Core automatically monitors network conditions via feedback from the UEQAM and adjusts MAP advance time without requiring manual intervention. This maintains ease of operation while dramatically improving adaptability to varying network conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The feedback loop provides real-time information about actual network delay, enabling the system to automatically adapt to changing conditions. This eliminates the need for manual reconfiguration while maintaining straightforward system operation through automated control.
Data Source
AI summary
An M-CMTS compatible UEQAM device implements circuitry to identify and analyze MAP message in the data stream sent from the M-CMTS Core with respect to timing information embedded in those messages. The improved UEQAM will then create a specific message as an extension to DEPI to communicate that information to the M-CMTS Core. The M-CMTS Core will employ that analysis to automatically adjust MAP message advance time to reduce delay and thus improve system performance. This invention will provide a closed-loop between the M-CMTS Core and the UEQAM where valuable transmission information will periodically be fed back from UEQAM-to-M-CMTS Core in real-time.