CATV Diplex Filter Switching for Remote Upstream Band Changes

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing cable television (CATV) networks face challenges in adjusting the frequency range and bandwidth of communication channels, particularly with the introduction of DOCSIS 3.1, which requires manual replacement of diplex filters, leading to service breakdowns and high costs due to the need for maintenance personnel to travel to each network element.

Innovation Solution

A network element with at least two diplex filters, a switch, and remote control capabilities from the headend, allowing for the selection and connection of the appropriate diplex filter to adjust upstream frequency bands, minimizing service disruptions and reducing manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual replacement of diplex filters is performed to adjust frequency bands, then the frequency range and bandwidth can be adjusted, but service breakdown occurs and maintenance costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefrequency band adjustment capabilityVSAvoidservice continuity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic frequency band adjustment by enabling remote switching between different diplex filters without physical replacement. The system can dynamically change frequency bands by activating different filters through remote control, eliminating service interruptions while maintaining adaptability to different bandwidth requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a remote control system as an intermediary between the headend and network elements. This intermediary enables frequency band adjustment by sending control signals to switch between diplex filters, eliminating the need for manual intervention and maintaining service continuity during band adjustments

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual replacement of diplex filters is performed, then frequency bands can be adjusted, but operational costs and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefrequency band adjustment capabilityVSAvoidmaintenance time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical process of physical diplex filter replacement with an electronic remote control system. The headend can send electronic signals to switch between pre-installed diplex filters, eliminating the need for maintenance personnel to physically travel to and replace filters, thus dramatically reducing maintenance time and operational costs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-installing multiple diplex filters with different frequency band characteristics in network elements. When frequency band adjustment is needed, the system can immediately switch to the appropriate pre-configured filter without waiting for manual replacement, thereby reducing adjustment time and operational costs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If diplex filters are replaced to adjust upstream bandwidth, then higher data rates can be achieved, but downstream service is disrupted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveupstream data throughputVSAvoiddownstream service availability

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables dynamic switching between different diplex filters that support different upstream bandwidth configurations. The remote control system can switch filters to accommodate higher upstream data rates for DOCSIS 3.1 while maintaining continuous downstream service, as the switching occurs without physical disruption to the network element

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution enables remote and efficient adjustment of upstream frequency bands, reducing service breakdowns and operational costs, while allowing for seamless integration of new frequency bands without disrupting downstream services.

Implementation Method 1

a first diplex filter comprising a bandpass filter for a first upstream frequency band

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBandpass filtering: Filter (electronic)

Implementation Method 2

a second diplex filter comprising a bandpass filter for a second upstream frequency band

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBandpass filtering: Filter (electronic)

Data Source

PatentUS10841009B2Arrangement for CATV network

Publication Date: 2020.11.17 TELESTE NETWORKS OY

AI summary

A network element (200) of a cable television (CATV) network, comprising an input (204) for upstream signal transmission; at least two diplex filters (210, 212, 214) configured to be connected to said input (204), a first diplex filter (210) comprising a bandpass filter for a first upstream frequency band and a second diplex filter (212) comprising a bandpass filter for a second upstream frequency band; a switch (208) for connecting one of said at least two diplex filters to said input; wherein the network element is configured to be remotely controlled by a headend of the CATV network for selecting the diplex filter.