Radio Network Disturbance Testing via Packet Interception

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for testing radio communications networks, such as simulators, fail to validate the proper functioning of real terminal-real network pairs and do not effectively simulate external disturbances, leading to undetected malfunctions.

Innovation Solution

A method and device that simulate external disturbances by neutralizing or modifying data packets exchanged between a mobile telephone terminal and a base station, allowing for the detection and analysis of reactions to these disturbances, which includes demodulating and analyzing data packets in real-time to introduce interference or replacement data, triggering correction protocols and testing network resistance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If real terminals and networks are tested in a simulated environment, then network operation under nominal conditions can be validated, but malfunctions that occur in real environments remain undetected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork operation validationVSAvoidmalfunction detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary device that positions itself between the real terminal and the real network, acting as a transparent proxy. This intermediary can selectively modify data packets without disrupting the natural interaction between terminal and network, enabling detection of real-world malfunctions while maintaining realistic operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates copies of data packets exchanged between terminal and network, analyzing these copies to detect malfunctions. By copying and examining packet contents rather than directly intercepting live traffic, the system can identify anomalies without affecting the actual communication flow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Reliability

If data packets are intercepted and analyzed in real-time to introduce disturbances, then network resistance to external disturbances can be tested, but the complexity of the testing device increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork resistance testingVSAvoidtesting device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The testing device is designed with multi-functionality, combining packet capture, analysis, modification, and injection capabilities in a single integrated system. This universal approach allows the same device to perform multiple testing functions without requiring separate specialized equipment for each operation.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The intermediary device automatically captures, analyzes, and modifies packets without requiring manual intervention. The system self-manages the entire testing process from packet interception to disturbance injection and reaction analysis, reducing operational complexity despite the sophisticated functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If disturbance data is sent on the downlink channel from base station to terminal, then network correction protocols can be triggered, but interference with normal communication increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorrection protocol testingVSAvoidcommunication interference
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies disturbances selectively to specific packets rather than continuously to all communication. By targeting only chosen packets for modification and injection of disturbance data, the system tests correction protocols while minimizing interference with normal communication flows. The disturbance application is localized in time and space rather than pervasive.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The testing system introduces disturbances periodically or at scheduled intervals rather than continuously. This periodic approach allows normal communication to proceed uninterrupted between test injections, enabling correction protocol testing while maintaining acceptable communication quality during non-test periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentEP2044786B1Method and device for testing the resistance of a radio network to external disturbances
Publication Date: 2013.06.12 ERCOM ENG RESEAUX COMM
  • EP2044786B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2

AI summary

The present invention relates to a method and a device for testing a radio communication network (3) in which external disturbances in the net are simulated, wherein the disturbances are integrated in a data exchange between a mobile telephone terminal (1) and a basis station (2) of the network, such that the resistance of the network (3) is tested.