DSL Profile Selection Using Risk Factor Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
The evolution of DSL access networks to VDSL2 and G.Fast connections, with changes in copper connection properties and increased protocol complexity, renders existing profile selection methods less optimal, leading to suboptimal initial profile choices and increased reliance on default profiles with subsequent Dynamic Line Management iterations.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for selecting an initial DSL profile based on risk factor evaluation and comparison with established modem pair connection systems, using a database to determine a more appropriate starting profile for new connections, which can be refined by Dynamic Line Management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing profile selection methods are used for new VDSL2 and G.Fast connections, then the selection process is simple and fast, but the initial profile choice becomes suboptimal due to changes in copper connection properties and increased protocol complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary measurements on the copper connection (attenuation, noise, interference) before profile selection, and uses this data to pre-evaluate multiple candidate profiles. This preliminary action ensures that the most suitable profile is identified before the connection is established, improving accuracy without adding operational complexity during actual connection setup.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtual models or representations of different DSL profiles and simulates their performance on the measured copper connection characteristics. By copying and testing profile configurations in a simulated environment before deployment, the system can accurately predict which profile will perform best without requiring complex real-time adjustments.
2Productivity
If default profiles are used for new connections, then the initial setup is quick and simple, but iterative adjustments by Dynamic Line Management are required, increasing connection setup time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs all necessary profile evaluation and selection measurements before the connection is actually established. By completing the profile selection process in advance based on preliminary copper connection measurements, the system eliminates the need for iterative adjustments after connection setup, thereby reducing total connection establishment time while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where measurement data from the copper connection is continuously monitored and used to confirm the suitability of the selected profile. This feedback loop validates the initial selection without requiring multiple iterative adjustments, reducing the time lost to repeated profile changes while ensuring optimal performance.
3Measurement precision
If comprehensive measurements are performed on new copper connections to evaluate risk factors, then profile selection accuracy improves, but the measurement and evaluation process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the profile selection process into distinct segments: copper connection measurement, risk factor extraction, candidate profile identification, and profile evaluation. Each segment handles a specific aspect of the selection process, making the overall complex task manageable and systematic. This segmentation allows comprehensive measurements to be performed methodically without overwhelming complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer that translates raw measurement data from the copper connection into meaningful risk factors. This intermediary step converts complex physical measurements into standardized parameters that can be directly compared against profile requirements, simplifying the evaluation process while maintaining measurement precision.
4Measurement precision
If multiple candidate profiles are evaluated based on risk factor comparison, then the initial profile selection becomes more accurate, but the computational processing required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary filtering of candidate profiles by comparing measured risk factors against minimum requirements before conducting detailed evaluations. This preliminary action eliminates obviously unsuitable profiles early in the process, reducing the number of profiles that require intensive computational analysis while ensuring that the final selection is made from among the most suitable candidates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different evaluation criteria and levels of computational analysis to different candidate profiles based on their characteristics. Profiles that closely match the measured connection characteristics receive more detailed evaluation, while those with obvious mismatches receive simpler assessment. This localized approach to evaluation quality optimizes computational resources while maintaining high selection accuracy.
Data Source
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AI summary
An Initial Profile Application Apparatus (IPAA) (100) is operable to apply an initial profile to a modem pair connection system (5), the modem pair connection system (5) comprising a first modem (33), a corresponding second modem (11) and a metallic wire connection (15a, 25a), wherein the first (33) and second (11) modems are operable to establish a data connection between themselves over the metallic wire connection (15a, 25a). The IPAA (100) comprises: a receiver (110) for receiving new-order information associated with a new order placed by a customer for a new broadband data connection to be supplied over the modem pair connection system (5); an evaluator (132) for evaluating a set of risk factors for the new order based on the received new-order information; a line database (140) storing information about a plurality of established modem pair connection systems which information includes values for the corresponding risk factors of each of the plurality of established modem pair connection systems, or information permitting the evaluation of such values, and information about a profile applied to each of the plurality of established modem pair connection systems; a comparator (134) for comparing the set of evaluated risk factors for the new order with corresponding risk factors for established modem pair connection systems using information from the line database; a determiner (136) for determining an initial profile to apply to the modem pair connection system based on the comparison of risk factors; and an applicator (110) for applying the determined initial profile to the modem pair connection system (5).