CTI Switch with USB Control for Multiple Central Offices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional telecommunications switches lack flexibility to efficiently interface with modern computer-telephony integration (CTI) systems, which require programmable control to manage multiple communication paths and Central Offices.
Innovation Solution
A switch configured to connect communication devices to multiple Central Offices, allowing both manual and programmatic control via a CTI system, using a universal serial bus (USB) for communication with workstations, enabling selection of a specific Central Office and providing status reports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional switches with fixed circuits are used, then the system structure is simple and stable, but the flexibility to interface with modern CTI systems and manage multiple communication paths is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The switch is designed with programmable control capabilities, allowing dynamic reconfiguration of communication paths between CTI devices and Central Offices. The switch can be programmed to connect to different Central Offices based on CTI system requirements, transforming a static circuit switch into a dynamic, adaptable system that can change its topology in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch is designed to serve multiple functions: it can connect to multiple Central Offices, interface with CTI systems, and be controlled both manually and programmatically. This multi-functional design allows a single switch device to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized devices, improving versatility while managing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a switch can connect to multiple Central Offices, then the system flexibility and communication paths increase, but the control complexity and management difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The switch incorporates automated control capabilities where the CTI system can programmatically manage connections to different Central Offices without requiring manual intervention. The system can automatically establish, maintain, and switch between communication paths based on CTI commands, reducing the operational burden on users while maintaining the ability to connect to multiple Central Offices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes mechanisms for monitoring and managing connections to multiple Central Offices, with the ability to receive status information and adjust connections accordingly. This feedback capability allows the system to maintain optimal communication paths while simplifying user interaction, as the system can automatically respond to connection status changes and CTI system requirements.
3Ease of operation
If manual control is added to the switch, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch integrates both manual and automated CTI control mechanisms into a single unified device. The manual control interface and CTI system integration are merged into one switch unit, allowing users to choose between manual operation and automated programming control based on their needs. This consolidation improves ease of operation by providing multiple control modes while managing complexity through integrated design rather than separate devices.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for controlling telecommunications is provided. The apparatus, which in one embodiment is a switch, may be connected between a computer-telephony integrated (CTI) workstation and multiple communication lines to elements such as Central Offices. The switch may be manipulated either manually or by the CTI workstation to connect to one of the multiple communication lines.