Location-Based Remote Testing of Network Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Service providers face challenges in remotely testing network elements, especially when customers use their own network elements with those of a network provider, as existing methods require specific identifiers for remote testing.
Innovation Solution
A location-based remote testing service that uses geolocation information to correlate network elements, allowing remote testing without the need for identifiers, utilizing a distributed fiber optic sensing system and inventory system to perform tests based on geographic coordinates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional remote testing methods using specific identifiers are employed, then network element testing can be performed with precision, but the system becomes inaccessible when identifier information is unavailable or when customers use their own network elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces geolocation information as an intermediary parameter to bridge the gap between accessibility and precision. Instead of directly using network element identifiers, the system uses geographic location data (latitude, longitude, address) as a mediator to indirectly identify and trigger remote testing on the correct network elements. This intermediary approach allows customers to initiate tests without knowing technical identifiers while maintaining system precision through location-based correlation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the triggering parameter from traditional network element identifiers (technical parameters) to geolocation information (spatial parameters). This parameter transformation allows the system to accept more user-friendly inputs (addresses, location names) while internally mapping these to the correct network elements through location databases, thereby improving ease of operation without sacrificing measurement precision.
2Productivity
If on-site access is required for network element testing, then precise testing can be performed, but service maintenance efficiency and response time are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service remote testing where customers can initiate network element tests independently using their mobile devices and geolocation data. The system automatically correlates the location with network elements and executes tests without requiring technician intervention or on-site access. This self-service capability dramatically improves productivity by allowing customers to perform routine testing themselves while reducing the time loss associated with scheduling and dispatching technicians.
3Adaptability or versatility
If customers use their own network elements with provider network elements, then service flexibility is improved, but the complexity of remote testing identification increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the identification problem into two independent parts: geolocation-based identification (customer-friendly layer) and network element correlation (technical layer). The system first identifies the general location area using customer-provided geolocation data, then correlates this location with specific network elements in the provider's infrastructure. This segmentation allows the system to support mixed network element ownership (customer-owned and provider-owned) without increasing overall system complexity, as each layer handles its own identification tasks independently.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, a device, and a non-transitory storage medium provide a location-based remote testing service. The location-based remote testing service may receive a request for a remote test that includes location information indicating a location subject to a remote test. The service may correlate the location information to a network element of a network. The service may perform a remote test on the network element. The service may provide a result of the remote test to a device that requests the remote test.