PBX Configuration Automation for Fixed Mobile Convergence

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for deploying Fixed Mobile Convergence (FMC) solutions in enterprise environments require manual re-programming of Private Branch Exchanges (PBX), which is time-consuming, expensive, and error-prone due to the variety of PBX systems with different configuration protocols, deterring large-scale adoption.

Innovation Solution

A method and device that automatically identify the type of exchange, retrieve and modify the call routing database to support FMC by incorporating additional call routing logic, enabling seamless communication between fixed and mobile networks, reducing the need for manual configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual re-programming of PBX is performed to deploy FMC solutions, then FMC functionality can be implemented, but deployment time and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveFMC functionalityVSAvoiddeployment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service by allowing the PBX to automatically identify its own type through response verification and autonomously retrieve and modify its configuration database without external intervention. The PBX extracts configuration data, identifies routing requirements, and updates its own call routing logic to support FMC features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical manual re-programming process with an automated electronic system. A configuration device electronically retrieves the PBX configuration database, automatically modifies call routing logic based on extracted data, and uploads updated configurations, eliminating the need for manual configuration tasks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual re-programming of PBX is performed to deploy FMC solutions, then FMC functionality can be implemented, but deployment cost increases due to specialized labor requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveFMC functionalityVSAvoiddeployment cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service by allowing the PBX to automatically identify its own type through response verification and autonomously retrieve and modify its configuration database without external intervention. The PBX extracts configuration data, identifies routing requirements, and updates its own call routing logic to support FMC features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical manual re-programming process with an automated electronic system. A configuration device electronically retrieves the PBX configuration database, automatically modifies call routing logic based on extracted data, and uploads updated configurations, eliminating the need for manual configuration tasks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual re-programming of PBX is performed, then configuration can be customized, but error rates increase due to human involvement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration flexibilityVSAvoidconfiguration accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service by allowing the PBX to automatically identify its own type through response verification and autonomously retrieve and modify its configuration database without external intervention. The PBX extracts configuration data, identifies routing requirements, and updates its own call routing logic to support FMC features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system sends requests to the PBX to trigger responses, verifies whether responses match expected outcomes, and uses this feedback to confirm successful configuration. This automated verification loop ensures configuration accuracy without human intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

4Loss of time

If automated configuration is implemented, then deployment time is reduced, but compatibility with different PBX types must be ensured

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeployment timeVSAvoidPBX type compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements universality by creating a configuration system that can handle multiple PBX types through a unified approach. The system automatically identifies the PBX type and selects appropriate configuration modules from a library, enabling the same automated system to work across different PBX vendors and models without requiring vendor-specific manual configuration procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses parameter changes by dynamically adjusting configuration parameters based on the identified PBX type. The system modifies call routing logic parameters, configuration database structures, and protocol handlers according to the specific PBX type detected, allowing automated configuration while maintaining compatibility across different systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP2732613B1Method and device for configuring a communication system
Publication Date: 2017.10.25 NORWOOD SYST
  • EP2732613B1 patent drawing
  • EP2732613B1 patent drawing
  • EP2732613B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for configuring a communication system (20) comprising an exchange (34), the method comprising: identifying a type of the exchange; selecting a configuration module (56) adapted to communicate with the identified type of the exchange; and under the control of the selected configuration module, retrieving and analysing automatically a configuration database from the exchange, and configuring the exchange to provide communication connectivity to both a fixed network and a mobile network.