Coaxial Network Virtual Representation via Signal Propagation Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coaxial networks in buildings, such as hotels and multi-family homes, often lack tools for technicians to pinpoint problem areas, leading to increased service costs and inefficiencies, as the infrastructure is not easily accessible and the physical structure of the cables is frequently unknown.
Innovation Solution
A method to generate a virtual representation of the coaxial network by determining time lapse values representing propagation time between node devices, using reference and loopback signals, allowing for graphical illustration of the network infrastructure and fault location without requiring direct access to the cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If technicians physically access and inspect coaxial cables to pinpoint problem areas, then measurement precision and fault detection accuracy improve, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficult cable accessibility and customer involvement requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the physical coaxial network infrastructure through signal propagation time measurements. By measuring the time it takes for signals to travel between node devices and reflecting off cable endpoints or faults, the system generates a virtual representation of cable lengths, connections, and potential problems without physical cable access. This virtual model enables precise fault detection while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical inspection methods with electromagnetic signal-based measurement. Instead of technicians physically tracing and inspecting cables, the system uses signal propagation time measurements through the coaxial network to infer cable infrastructure characteristics and locate faults. This substitution eliminates the need for physical cable access while maintaining measurement precision.
2Ease of operation
If a virtual representation of the coaxial network is generated using signal propagation measurements, then ease of operation improves by enabling remote analysis without customer involvement, but device complexity increases due to the need for measurement and analysis systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing MoCA node devices multi-functional by enabling them to perform both their original networking function and signal propagation measurement function. The same node devices that provide network connectivity also serve as measurement endpoints for generating the virtual infrastructure representation. This universality avoids adding dedicated measurement equipment, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving ease of maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service measurement capabilities where the MoCA network infrastructure itself provides the measurement functions. Node devices automatically participate in signal propagation measurements and the system autonomously generates the virtual representation without requiring external specialized equipment or customer involvement. This self-service approach minimizes added complexity while improving ease of operation.
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
Enables cost-effective analysis and maintenance of coaxial networks by providing a virtual map of the network structure, facilitating the identification of faults and improving service efficiency without customer involvement or unnecessary costs.
Implementation Method 1
determining time lapse values representing propagation time between node devices
Data Source
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AI summary
Method for generating a virtual representation of a coaxial network structure of a communication network, such as a MoCA (Multimedia over Coaxial Alliance) network, which communication network comprises a plurality of node devices including one network management device, wherein said node devices are interconnected through said coaxial network, the method comprising the steps of: determining a time lapse matrix, comprising time lapse values Ti,j representing propagation time through the coaxial network between node devices ni and nj; processing the time lapse matrix to establish a branch association for each node device with respect to the network management device; storing virtual representation data of the coaxial network comprising said branch association.