Broadband Station Integrating PSTN and IP Networks for Remote Call Log Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for integrated communication systems that can seamlessly manage and coordinate voice communications between traditional telephones and other devices within a household, particularly with the rise of home networks, while allowing remote access and control over call logs and handling of incoming calls.

Innovation Solution

A broadband station (BBS) device that connects to a local access network, enabling integration of telephone systems with internet capabilities, allowing for call log management, remote access, and customizable call handling rules through instant messaging notifications and video communications, using a service agent to detect incoming calls and send notifications with options for handling calls.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional telephones are used for voice communications, then reliable voice communication is achieved, but integration with other communication devices and home networks is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration capabilityVSAvoidsystem integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines traditional telephone functionality with internet communication capabilities by integrating a broadband station that can access both PSTN and IP networks. The system merges voice communication, data communication, and remote access features into a single unified device, allowing the telephone to function as both a traditional phone and a networked communication hub.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The broadband station is designed to perform multiple functions: it can make and receive traditional telephone calls, access the internet, provide remote access to call logs, and integrate with various communication protocols. This multi-functional design allows a single device to replace multiple separate communication systems.

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

2Loss of information

If call log management is added to telephones, then communication tracking capability is improved, but device functionality becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecall log accessibilityVSAvoidfunctionality integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The broadband station acts as an intermediary between the telephone system and remote access systems. It captures call information from the telephone, stores it in a accessible format, and makes it available through remote access interfaces. This intermediary approach allows call log management without requiring direct modification of the telephone hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system adds a remote access dimension to traditional telephone call log functionality. Instead of limiting call log access to the local telephone device, the system enables access from remote locations through network connections, adding a spatial dimension to information accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of operation

If remote access capability is implemented, then communication flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote accessVSAvoidnetwork integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The broadband station automatically performs many tasks without requiring manual intervention: it captures call information, updates call logs, and makes data available for remote access. The system self-manages the complexity of network communication and data formatting, presenting simplified access interfaces to users while handling the underlying complexity automatically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8897425B2Methods, systems, and products for accessing call logs
Publication Date: 2014.11.25 AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I L P
  • US8897425B2 patent drawing
  • US8897425B2 patent drawing
  • US8897425B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods, systems, and products provide remote access to call logs upon request. An incoming call is processed and an address is retrieved that is associated with a called number. An electronic message is sent to the address to identify a calling number of the incoming call. A log of calls is updated with the incoming call. A reply electronic message is received from the address, and the log of calls is sent to the address.