Endpoint Connection Control Adapter for Non-IP Device Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Legacy non-IP endpoint devices, such as set-top boxes and cable cards, cannot participate effectively in IP-based messaging infrastructures due to their inability to communicate using Internet Protocol (IP) methods, leading to compatibility issues and the need for duplicative systems for communication.
Innovation Solution
An endpoint connection control apparatus that simulates the presence of non-IP endpoints in an IP-based messaging and presence protocol, using a connection manager adapter to manage presence data, translate messages, and adapt protocols, allowing non-IP devices to appear as clients within the IP protocol and enabling communication with IP-based services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If non-IP devices use traditional RF communication methods, then they can maintain legacy communication protocols, but they cannot participate in IP-based messaging infrastructures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an endpoint connection control apparatus as an intermediary device that sits between non-IP endpoints and the IP-based messaging infrastructure. This apparatus translates messages between RF protocols and IP-based protocols (XMPP, SIP, SIMPLE), enabling legacy devices to participate in IP networks without modifying their native communication methods. The intermediary handles protocol conversion, presence information management, and message routing, resolving the contradiction by maintaining legacy protocol simplicity while achieving IP infrastructure compatibility.
2Reliability
If separate communication systems are maintained for non-IP and IP devices, then legacy device functionality is preserved, but duplicative systems increase infrastructure complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the communication paths for non-IP and IP devices into a unified IP-based messaging infrastructure. The endpoint connection control apparatus consolidates multiple functions (protocol translation, presence management, message routing) into a single integrated system that serves both legacy and modern devices. This merging eliminates the need for completely separate communication systems while preserving legacy device functionality through intelligent translation and adaptation layers.
3Productivity
If non-IP devices are integrated into IP networks without translation, then network simplicity is maintained, but protocol incompatibility prevents effective participation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically transforming message parameters during protocol translation. The endpoint connection control apparatus modifies message formats, address structures, and protocol parameters to bridge the gap between RF and IP protocols. Presence information, device identifiers, and message content are all subjected to parameter transformations that maintain semantic meaning while adapting to different protocol requirements, enabling effective message delivery across protocol boundaries.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus can include a connection manager adapter that is configured to maintain presence for each of the plurality of non-IP endpoints in an IP messaging and presence protocol based on the endpoint presence data. The endpoint presence data includes a unique identifier and attribute data received for each of a plurality of non-internet protocol (IP) endpoints. The connection manager adapter can be configured to access the endpoint presence data and convert a message between the IP messaging and presence protocol and different protocol for communication with a given non-IP endpoint of the plurality of endpoints.