IP-Based Intercom Control with Automatic Failover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current audio intercom systems are limited by their fixed number of stations, operational distance, and require specific wiring, making them inflexible and prone to prolonged disruptions in case of failures.
Innovation Solution
A computer-based system using Internet Protocol (IP) for connecting and managing multiple audio communication terminals, which allows for remote operation, automatic redundancy, and flexible expansion through software-defined networking, eliminating the need for physical wiring and enabling rapid recovery from failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional wired intercom systems are used, then reliable audio communication is achieved, but the system is limited by fixed number of stations and operational distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired intercom system with a software-based IP network system. The computer-based intercom control and management system uses software to manage audio communication terminals over IP networks, eliminating the need for physical wiring and enabling scalable deployment without the limitations of traditional wired systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal intercom system that can operate over various IP networks (LAN, WAN, Internet) and support multiple communication modes. The system can handle both voice and data communication, and can be deployed across different network infrastructures, making it adaptable to various station configurations and distances.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional wired intercom systems are used, then audio communication is established, but specific interconnect wiring is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the mechanical wiring infrastructure by substituting it with IP network communication. The system uses software-based audio routing and network protocols to establish audio channels between terminals, removing the need for dedicated intercom wiring while maintaining communication functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The IP-based system leverages existing network infrastructure to provide intercom functionality, making the system deployable in environments with existing network coverage. The same network infrastructure can support multiple applications simultaneously, reducing overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If traditional wired intercom systems are used, then system control is maintained, but failure recovery is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic failover mechanisms that are pre-configured in the software system. When a primary audio channel or terminal fails, the system automatically switches to backup channels or terminals based on pre-established routing rules, minimizing service disruption without requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the status of audio channels and terminals, providing real-time feedback on system health. This enables automatic detection of failures and triggers appropriate recovery actions, reducing the time to restore service compared to traditional systems that lack automated monitoring and response capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
An audio communication system including a communication server with an operator interface coupled to a network and one or more audio communication terminal clients coupled to the network. The communication server is advantageously implemented in a PC based system connected to a network. The network may include the internet. In operation the server may monitor the network for a client connection request issued by one of the audio communication terminal clients. A TCP/IP network connection is established between the communication server and a client after said communication server receives a client connection request. Once the connection is established the server displays an indication of client connection request through operator interface. Alternatively an indication of the client connection request may be presented to the operator. The operator then controls the server based on inputs to the user/operator interface. The operator may respond to the remote client either by speaking, by playing a pre-recorded message or by transferring the connection and/or connection request to another communication server. The system may be have a fault tolerant feature whereby the audio communication terminal clients attempt to connect with and alternate communication server if the initial server is not available.