Network Leak Identification via RF Radiation Pattern Classification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solutions for detecting network leaks do not adequately identify the type of leak, leading to inefficiencies in maintenance and service restoration.

Innovation Solution

The method involves collecting and analyzing data associated with network leaks to determine their type, using radio frequency (RF) radiation patterns and corresponding features stored in a database. A classification model is employed to classify unknown RF radiation patterns and identify the associated network leak type.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing network leak detection solutions are used, then network leaks can be detected, but the leak type cannot be adequately identified

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveleak type identification accuracyVSAvoidleak characteristic information
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the leak detection process into multiple independent analysis components: RF radiation pattern analysis, acoustic signature analysis, and visual inspection. Each component extracts specific features independently, and their results are combined to achieve comprehensive leak type identification. This segmentation allows each analysis method to focus on specific leak characteristics without interference from other factors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from traditional single-dimension leak detection to multi-dimensional analysis by incorporating RF radiation patterns (electromagnetic dimension), acoustic signatures (acoustic dimension), and visual characteristics (optical dimension). This multi-dimensional approach enables accurate classification of different leak types by analyzing the same leak event across multiple physical domains simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If traditional leak detection methods are used, then leaks can be identified, but maintenance efficiency is reduced due to lack of leak type information

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemaintenance efficiencyVSAvoidservice restoration time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary classification of leak types during the detection phase itself, rather than requiring separate diagnostic procedures later. By analyzing RF radiation patterns, acoustic signatures, and visual features at the time of detection, the system pre-identifies the leak type, enabling maintenance teams to prepare appropriate repair procedures in advance and significantly reducing service restoration time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service leak characterization by automatically analyzing detection data and classifying leak types without requiring expert manual assessment. The automated classification algorithm processes RF, acoustic, and visual data to determine leak type, allowing field technicians to receive immediate, actionable information that guides their maintenance activities without needing specialized training or time-consuming diagnostic procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20250112712A1Methods, systems, and apparatuses for improved network leak identification
Publication Date: 2025.04.03 COMCAST CABLE COMM LLC
  • US20250112712A1 patent drawing
  • US20250112712A1 patent drawing
  • US20250112712A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods, systems, and apparatuses for identifying network leaks are described herein. Data associated with network leaks may be collected and analyzed to determine a network leak type(s) associated with each network leak. Each network leak type may be associated with a particular radio frequency (RF) radiation pattern. RF radiation patterns as well as corresponding features associated with a number of network leak types may be stored in a database and/or library. A classification model may use the database and/or library to classify an unknown RF radiation pattern as being associated with a leak type(s) of the number of network leak types.