Streaming Timestamp Correction for Variable-Frame Packet Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing streaming network protocols face inaccuracies in timestamp handling due to variable frame sizes, leading to issues in playback synchronization and latency, especially when network packets are lost, which affects the quality of real-time communication services.
Innovation Solution
Calculating corrected timestamp ranges based on buffering characteristics and frame durations to accurately determine the amount of data lost, using equations to adjust the timestamp values and manage jitter buffers effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If fixed timestamp increments are used for network packets, then timestamp calculation is simplified, but timestamp accuracy deteriorates due to variable frame sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing the cumulative sum of frame durations in a lookup table during system initialization. This pre-computed reference data is then used during runtime to accurately determine the timestamp corresponding to any packet sequence number, eliminating the need for complex real-time calculations while maintaining high timestamp accuracy despite variable frame sizes.
2Productivity
If timestamp correction is performed without considering buffering characteristics, then processing is faster, but timestamp accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-determining and storing buffering characteristics (such as buffer fill rates and processing delays) during system initialization or calibration phases. These pre-characterized buffer parameters are then incorporated into the timestamp correction equations, allowing the system to perform fast corrections while maintaining accuracy by accounting for buffer effects through pre-computed correction factors.
3Productivity
If lost packets are not detected, then network traffic is maintained, but playback synchronization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a packet loss detection mechanism that monitors packet sequence numbers and identifies missing packets in the stream. When packet loss is detected, the system triggers timestamp correction procedures that compensate for the lost data by calculating adjusted timestamps based on the detected gap and the pre-stored buffering characteristics. This feedback loop maintains playback synchronization without requiring retransmission or reduced network throughput.
Data Source
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AI summary
Techniques are described for determining corrected timestamps for streaming data that is encoded using frames with a variable frame size. The streaming data is encoded into frames and transmitted in network packets in which the network packets or frames are associated with timestamps incremented in fixed steps. When a network packet is received after a lost packet, a corrected timestamp range can be calculated for the received packet based at least in part on the received timestamp value and attributes of the received network packet along with buffering characteristics.