Communication Network Management via Occupancy Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current communication networks are reactive to increased usage and interference, leading to system downtime and potential loss of information due to delayed accommodation of increased demand and radio interference from mobile devices.

Innovation Solution

A communication network management system that utilizes recognition technology to detect occupancy and adjust system parameters proactively, such as activating soft-network devices and increasing power output, to maintain maximum uptime and accommodate projected usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the system uses built-in capacity above normal usage to accommodate increased demand, then the system can handle increased usage, but the system is still reactive and experiences downtime before capacity is fully utilized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem uptimeVSAvoidsystem downtime
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by detecting occupancy levels and proactively adjusting bandwidth capacity before increased demand actually occurs. The processor monitors the number of individuals in the coverage area and preemptively allocates additional bandwidth capacity based on predicted usage patterns, rather than waiting for demand to trigger capacity adjustments. This eliminates reactive downtime and ensures continuous optimal performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If the system detects and accommodates usage increases, then the system adjusts to demand, but the reactive detection causes delay and information loss

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem adaptability to usageVSAvoidinformation loss during adjustment delay
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by detecting occupancy levels and proactively adjusting bandwidth capacity before increased demand actually occurs. The processor monitors the number of individuals in the coverage area and preemptively allocates additional bandwidth capacity based on predicted usage patterns, rather than waiting for demand to trigger capacity adjustments. This eliminates reactive downtime and ensures continuous optimal performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors occupancy levels through detection devices and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust bandwidth allocation. The processor receives real-time information about the number of individuals in the coverage area and automatically modifies system capacity accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains optimal performance without manual intervention or delayed response.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If the system provides overall capacity above predetermined usage, then the system can accommodate increased usage, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem capacity flexibilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically monitoring occupancy levels and adjusting its own bandwidth capacity without external intervention. The processor continuously evaluates detection data about individuals in the coverage area and autonomously allocates or releases bandwidth resources, eliminating the need for complex manual configuration or external control systems while maintaining high adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9781613B2System and method for proactive communication network management based upon area occupancy
Publication Date: 2017.10.03 GE PRECISION HEALTHCARE LLC
  • US9781613B2 patent drawing
  • US9781613B2 patent drawing
  • US9781613B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In the present invention, a communication network management system and method is provided that includes a central processing unit (CPU) including an individual and device recognition analysis engine located within the system on computer-readable-medium having the analysis instructions stored thereon in a non-transitory manner, a recognition device operably connected to the CPU and analysis engine and a transceiver configured to transmit and receive wireless signals between the CPU and various patient care devices located within a coverage area defined by the transceiver. The analysis engine receives information from the recognition device regarding the occupancy of the coverage area and identifies the individuals and devices occupying the coverage area to determine the adequacy of the network to accommodate the potential usage and interference levels resulting from the coverage area occupancy. The system can then alter the network configuration to provide adequate bandwidth and signal strength for the coverage area, as necessary.