Modem Relay Originator Merging PSTN Signaling with Packet Network Access

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Users with packet network access through DSL or cable modems are limited to using a 'standard' modem to access a Remote Access Server (RAS) due to the requirement for PSTN signaling, which negates the advantages of packet network access.

Innovation Solution

A network device, referred to as a Modem Relay Originator (MRO), which provides a first interface for client devices and a second interface for packet network transmission, translating between modem relay signals and client device signals, allowing for the elimination of the need for PSTN signaling by collapsing client modem and ingress gateway functionality into one device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If users use a standard modem to access RAS device, then PSTN signaling requirement is met, but packet network access advantage is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodem signaling compatibilityVSAvoidpacket network access advantage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the modem functionality and ingress gateway functionality into a single device (modem relay originator). This merged device can simultaneously handle modem signaling for RAS compatibility and packet network protocols for broadband access, eliminating the need for separate standard modems and gateway devices while maintaining both PSTN signaling compatibility and packet network advantages

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The modem relay originator is designed as a universal device that performs multiple functions: it acts as both a modem for PSTN signaling and a gateway for packet network communication. This multi-functional device can interface with both traditional modem protocols and modern packet network protocols, allowing users to leverage packet network access while maintaining compatibility with RAS devices that require modem signaling

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If separate modem and gateway devices are used, then signaling compatibility is ensured, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignaling compatibilityVSAvoidnumber of devices

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the previously separate modem and ingress gateway devices into a single integrated modem relay originator. This consolidation reduces the total number of devices in the system while maintaining signaling compatibility through software-based protocol handling. The single device can dynamically switch between modem protocols and packet network protocols, eliminating the need for multiple physical devices

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8072965B2Modem relay originator

Publication Date: 2011.12.06 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC

AI summary

A network device and a method for its operation are disclosed. The network device has a first interface to a client device to allow reception of client device signals and a second interface to a packet network to allow transmission and reception of modem relay signals. A processor translates between modem relay signals received or transmitted on the second interface and client device signals received or transmitted on the first interface. In one implementation the modem relay originator and the client device are collapsed into one device and the first interface is implemented as a virtual interface.