Network Interface Device External Demarcation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional network interface devices (NIDs) lack flexibility in connection schemes between provider and subscriber wirings, particularly for enhanced services like data and video, and do not effectively manage current surges and demarcation points outside the device.

Innovation Solution

The NID design includes a housing with a protector assembly connected to a ground bar, an insulation displacement connector (IDC) module, and a jack module that allows for external demarcation points, enabling flexible connection schemes and current surge management through the use of IDC modules and jack modules for both provider and subscriber lines.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional NID designs are mounted to an exterior wall with internal demarcation points only, then the device structure is simple and compact, but the connection scheme flexibility is limited and external demarcation is not possible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection scheme flexibilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The NID is divided into distinct functional modules: a housing containing internal components (protector assembly, IDC module), and external components (jack module, external demarcation point). This segmentation allows the device to support both internal and external demarcation configurations, enhancing connection scheme flexibility while maintaining a manageable structural complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If provider wiring is directly connected to subscriber wiring inside the NID, then the internal connection is straightforward, but the ability to provide external demarcation points for enhanced services is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenhanced services supportVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

An external demarcation point (EDP) serves as an intermediary between the provider wiring and subscriber wiring. The EDP includes a jack module that can be connected to the NID's internal IDC module through an outgoing jack module wire. This intermediary allows enhanced services to be implemented while maintaining a clear separation of responsibilities and simplifying installation through standardized connection interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If the NID provides only internal demarcation points, then the device structure is compact, but current surge management and external demarcation capabilities are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecurrent surge protectionVSAvoidprotective device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The protective device structure is extracted and integrated into the housing as a dedicated protector assembly. This assembly includes components for managing current surges and is electrically connected to the IDC module. By extracting and dedicating the protective function to a separate assembly, the NID achieves reliable current surge protection while maintaining a clear functional structure that does not excessively increase overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This design provides a flexible and reliable demarcation point outside the NID, allowing for enhanced services and effective current surge protection, facilitating easier installation and maintenance while segregating responsibilities between provider and subscriber systems.

Implementation Method 1

a ground bar configured to conduct current surges from the NID to ground

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS10187515B2Network interface devices having external demarcation points
Publication Date: 2019.01.22 CORNING OPTICAL COMMUNICATIONS LLC
  • US10187515B2 patent drawing
  • US10187515B2 patent drawing
  • US10187515B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of providing a telecommunications service using a network interface device (NID) is provided. The method includes connecting a provider line to one or more protector assemblies connected to a ground bar and configured to conduct current surges from the NID to ground. The one or more protector assemblies are electrically connected to an insulation displacement connector (IDC) module. An outgoing jack module wire is connected to the IDC module by inserting the outgoing jack module wire into a wire insertion hole of the IDC module to receive signals from the provider line. The outgoing jack module wire is electrically connected to a jack module outside the NID thereby providing a demarcation point. An incoming jack module wire is electrically connected to the jack module for carrying signals back to the NID.