Network Quality Measurement via Embedded Packet Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network quality measurement techniques require test probes and interrupt user data flow, making them inefficient for real-time monitoring and hindering standard communications.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating network measurement information into existing data packets, allowing for continuous, real-time quality assessment without disrupting data traffic by using loop-back mechanisms and intermediate devices to identify and address quality issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If test probes are placed at both ends of the network to measure quality, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from separate test probes and integrates it into existing data packets. Network measurement information is embedded within the data packets themselves, eliminating the need for external test equipment at both ends of the network. This reduces device complexity while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes data packets serve multiple functions: they simultaneously carry user data and network measurement information. By embedding measurement data within the same packets used for communication, the system eliminates the need for separate measurement devices, reducing complexity while improving ease of operation.
2Measurement precision
If test packets are sent continuously to measure network quality, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to interruption of user data flow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the measurement function with data transmission by embedding network measurement information within existing data packets. This combination allows continuous measurement without requiring separate test packets, eliminating interruptions to user data flow while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous network quality measurement by incorporating measurement data into the regular data stream. Since measurement information is embedded within normal data packets, the measurement process continues uninterrupted alongside user data transmission, maintaining both productivity and measurement precision.
3Ease of operation
If measurement information is embedded in existing data packets, then ease of operation is improved and productivity is maintained, but measurement precision may deteriorate due to mixed traffic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments measurement information into distinct fields within data packets, using specific identifiers and structured formats. This segmentation allows measurement data to be easily separated and extracted from mixed traffic, maintaining measurement precision while keeping the system easy to operate through standardized packet structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operation within a device coupled to a network. A first set of data is received from the network. A first set of measurement information, for use in determining a quality of the network, is then identified from the first set of data. A second set of measurement information is generated based on the first set of measurement information. The second set of measurement information and a second set of data are transmitted via the network, concurrently.