CMTS Object Tagging for Automated Cable Modem Classification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cable system operators face inefficiencies in managing and classifying cable modems within a cable modem termination system (CMTS), particularly in dynamic load balancing and configuration management, as existing methods require frequent OS updates and manual editing of configuration files, which are cumbersome and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a general rule-based tagging scheme within the CMTS object tagging process logic, where rules match properties of configurable objects to associate tags, allowing for automated classification and management of cable modems without the need for OS updates or manual configuration file edits, enabling dynamic classification and management through feeder applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual editing of configuration files is used to classify cable modems, then classification can be achieved, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The CMTS automatically classifies cable modems by evaluating classification rules against modem properties and assigning tags without human intervention. The system self-services the classification task by continuously monitoring modem properties and applying relevant rules, eliminating the need for operators to manually edit configuration files.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of manual configuration file editing with an automated electronic classification system. The CMTS uses software-based rule evaluation and automatic tag assignment, substituting human operators and manual file manipulation with an automated classification engine that processes modem properties and applies rules dynamically.
2Reliability
If frequent OS updates are performed to manage cable modems, then system functionality is maintained, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The classification system is designed to be dynamic rather than static. Classification rules and tags can be added, modified, or removed without requiring OS updates. The CMTS dynamically evaluates modem properties against the current set of rules and adjusts tag assignments in real-time, allowing the system to adapt to new classification needs through configuration changes rather than software updates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the classification functionality from the core operating system. Classification rules and tag management are implemented as separate, modular components that can be independently updated and configured. This segmentation allows rule modifications without requiring full OS updates, maintaining system reliability while improving operational efficiency.
3Ease of manufacture
If embedded systems are optimized for specific tasks, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but flexibility to run variety of software applications is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal tagging system that can classify cable modems based on multiple different properties and criteria. The same CMTS infrastructure and classification engine can handle various classification scenarios (firmware version, service type, geographic location, etc.) using a single flexible rule-based system, providing multi-functionality without requiring multiple specialized systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The classification system achieves versatility through parameter changes rather than hardware or OS modifications. By changing classification rules and evaluation parameters, the system can adapt to different classification needs. The rule-based approach allows the same embedded system to perform various classification tasks by simply modifying the rule set, maintaining manufacturing cost efficiency while gaining software flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are provided herein for tagging configurable objects. The configurable object is part of a cable system and is configured to be managed by a cable modem termination system (CMTS). In response to determining that a tag rule matches one or more properties of the configurable object, the first tag is associated with the configurable object. A record of the configurable object and the associated tag is generated or stored within the CMTS.