Network Element Configurable Switches for Service Migration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing manual and incremental rollout of new services in telecommunication networks, such as VDSL, is time-consuming and expensive, requiring technicians to manually patch connections at cable nodes, which is inefficient and costly, especially for individual subscribers switching to new services.
Innovation Solution
A network element with configurable switches that can connect subscriber lines to either a first service line or a second service line, controlled via a signal conveyed across the second service line, allowing for remote configuration and eliminating the need for additional control equipment or wiring, enabling flexible and cost-efficient service migration without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual patching by technicians is used to migrate subscribers to new services, then service migration can be performed, but it is time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automation where the cable node automatically detects service signals on subscriber lines and triggers switching operations without technician intervention. The control element monitors service signals and autonomously configures switches to migrate subscribers between service lines based on detected conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual patching process with an automated electronic control system. Physical manual operations are substituted by electronic signal detection and automated switch control, eliminating the need for technicians to physically patch connections at the cable node.
2Extent of automation
If additional control equipment or wiring is added to enable remote switching, then automation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control element performs multiple functions: it detects service signals, determines switching conditions, controls switch operations, and manages configuration. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be separate complex systems into a single integrated component within the cable node.
Solution Approach 2:
The control element acts as an intermediary between the service signals on subscriber lines and the switches. It receives service signals, processes them to determine switching needs, and triggers appropriate switch operations, thereby mediating the automation process without requiring external control equipment.
3Ease of manufacture
If existing line cards are used without redesign, then cost is reduced, but functionality may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control element is pre-configured with the capability to detect various service signals and trigger switching operations. This preliminary preparation allows the system to support multiple service types (ADSL, VDSL, POTS) using existing line cards without requiring redesign, as the control logic is already in place to handle different service conditions.
Data Source
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AI summary
A network element is provided comprising at least one switch, which is configurable to connect a subscriber line to a first service line or to a second service line, wherein the connection of the subscriber line to the first service line or to the second service line is configured via a signal conveyed across the second service line. Also, a system is suggested comprising several switches, wherein each switch is configurable to connect a subscriber line to a first service line or to a second service line, a control circuitry for controlling the several switches, an MSAN comprising several second service lines, wherein a dedicated service line of an MSAN is used for controlling the control circuitry. Further, methods for operating the network element or the system are suggested.