Advantech has filed a patent for a method to collect performance metrics in a communication network. The method involves establishing service operations administration and maintenance (OAM) sessions between an actuator and multiple reflectors. Test packets are sent from the actuator to the reflectors, generating test results with performance metrics. This allows for efficient fault isolation without the need for additional test packets. Another method involves generating simultaneous test packets to sectionalize the network and isolate faults or performance problems. GlobalData’s report on Advantech gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
According to GlobalData’s company profile on Advantech, Smart factory applications was a key innovation area identified from patents. Advantech's grant share as of September 2023 was 80%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
The patent filed is for a method to isolate faults in a network path using oam sessions

A recently filed patent (Publication Number: US20230300058A1) describes a method and system for isolating faults in a network path using an Operations Administration and Maintenance (OAM) session. The method involves establishing an OAM session between an actuator and a series of reflectors along the network path. The actuator is connected to the first reflector, and the reflectors are responsible for collecting performance metrics.
In this method, the actuator transmits one or more test packets to the first reflector, which then forwards them to the next reflector in the path. Each reflector sends a test reply packet to the actuator, incorporating a unique reflector identifier and performance metrics. The unique reflector identifier can be assigned statically or determined dynamically.
The patent also mentions that the reflectors do not require unique layer-3 addressing information, meaning they can borrow the same addressing information from any device downstream from the actuator along the network path. The performance metrics collected can include one-way packet delay, two-way packet delay, packet loss metrics, or a combination of these.
The system described in the patent includes a processor, a series of reflectors, and an actuator. The actuator establishes an OAM session with the reflectors and transmits test packets to the first reflector. Each reflector forwards the test packets to the next reflector in the path. The reflectors then send test reply packets to the actuator, containing a unique reflector identifier and performance metrics.
Similar to the method, the system does not require unique layer-3 addressing information for the reflectors. The performance metrics collected can include one-way packet delay, two-way packet delay, packet loss metrics, or a combination of these.
Additionally, the patent mentions a non-transitory computer-readable medium that stores statements and instructions to be executed by a digital processor. These instructions automate the process of establishing an OAM session, transmitting test packets, and receiving test replies from the reflectors.
Overall, this patent presents a method, system, and computer-readable medium for isolating faults in a network path using an OAM session. The approach involves the use of reflectors along the path to collect performance metrics and provide valuable information for fault detection and troubleshooting.
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