Timestamping Data Stream Packets for Synchronous Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current techniques for synchronous and deterministic insertion of a secondary data stream into a main data stream in DVB-T2 SFN networks require additional equipment, external synchronization, and modify the main flow, making them inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A method involving timestamping specific packets of both streams with a timestamp field containing seconds and nanoseconds information, allowing precise synchronization without altering the main stream or requiring external synchronization, by determining time information and updating timestamp fields based on packet duration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If synchronous insertion of secondary stream into main stream is implemented using prior art techniques, then insertion functionality is achieved, but additional equipment and external synchronization are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-generated timestamp fields within the data streams to achieve synchronization. Each stream contains its own timing information (PTS in MPEG-TS, PCT in DVB-T2), allowing the insertion device to determine insertion moments without external synchronization equipment or additional gateways.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and utilizes the existing timestamp fields (PTS/PCT) that are already present in the main and secondary streams. By extracting this timing information from the streams themselves, the system eliminates the need for external synchronization references and additional equipment.
2Reliability
If prior art insertion techniques are used, then insertion functionality is provided, but modification of the main flow is required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention operates locally at each transmission site by comparing the local secondary stream's timestamp with the main stream's timestamp at the insertion point. This local comparison approach avoids the need to modify the main stream structure or use a second gateway, as each site independently determines insertion timing based on timestamp matching.
3Measurement precision
If GPS-type external synchronization is used, then precise timing is achieved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves precise timing by using the timestamps already embedded in the data streams themselves. The main stream's PTS/PCT and the secondary stream's PTS/PCT serve as self-contained timing references, eliminating the need for external GPS-type synchronization equipment while maintaining precise insertion timing.
Data Source
Figure 1~2a
Figure 2b~2c
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for timestamping a data stream organised in the form of successive packets, comprising a timestamping step, for at least one packet of the data stream, said timestamping step including the following sub-steps and supplying at least one timestamped packet: determining at least one time-based datum; and adding at least one timestamping field to the packet, said field comprising at least one time-based datum.