Nurse Call Interface Unit for ISDN PBX Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing nurse call systems require expensive dedicated devices and are difficult to introduce, and there is a need for a technology that enables connection between the nurse call controller and private branch exchange without changing central control devices or software.
Innovation Solution
A nurse call system that connects the nurse call controller and private branch exchange through an ISDN basic interface and ISDN primary rate interface, using a nurse call dedicated unit to convert the interface without altering hardware or software, allowing communication between slave units and extension terminals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a nurse call adaptor is used to connect the nurse call controller to the private branch exchange, then connection is enabled, but the system becomes expensive and difficult to introduce
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the interface conversion function from a separate dedicated nurse call adaptor device and integrates it directly into the private branch exchange. This eliminates the need for the intermediate adaptor device, reducing system complexity and cost while maintaining the necessary interface conversion capability between ISDN basic interface and analog line interface
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the interface conversion function with the private branch exchange by providing an interface conversion unit within the PBX. This combines multiple functions (PBX operations and interface conversion) into a single integrated system, eliminating the separate adaptor device and reducing overall system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated nurse call adaptor devices are used for interface conversion, then connection is achieved, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the private branch exchange multi-functional by equipping it with an interface conversion unit that can handle both PBX operations and interface conversion between ISDN basic interface and analog line interface. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated adaptor devices, reducing system cost while maintaining interface compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The interface conversion unit within the private branch exchange serves as an intermediary that enables communication between the ISDN-based nurse call controller and the analog line-based PBX system. This intermediary function is integrated into the PBX rather than requiring a separate dedicated device, reducing overall system cost
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional nurse call controllers and private branch exchanges are connected through dedicated adaptors, then communication is enabled, but hardware and software changes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the interface conversion function as a distinct unit within the private branch exchange, separate from the main PBX control functions. This modular approach allows the interface conversion capability to be added without requiring changes to the existing nurse call controller or core PBX software, minimizing modification complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
In nurse call systems where communication between a plurality of slave units and a plurality of extension terminals is possible, a nurse call controller serving the slave units and a private branch exchange serving the mobile terminals have been connected to each other through a nurse call adaptor; thus, there is a need for one such nurse call system that does not require a nurse call adaptor. Provided is an interface unit which is connected to a nurse call controller through a plurality of ISND basic interfaces, connected to a private branch exchange through an ISDN primary rate interface, and performs interface conversion therebetween.