Remote Cable Verification System Using Auxiliary Testing Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cable testing methods require significant travel time for technicians, as they need to connect and disconnect testing devices at multiple locations, leading to inefficiencies and potential deviations from standard procedures due to time constraints.
Innovation Solution
A cable verification system comprising auxiliary testing devices with tone generators and wireless transceivers, installed at first connection points, allowing remote operation via a portable communication device. This system enables technicians to perform continuity and fault identification tests remotely, reducing the need for extensive travel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional cable testing methods are used, then cable verification can be performed, but significant travel time is consumed between connection points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of a remote server, portable communication device, and auxiliary testing device that mediates between the technician and the cable under test. The auxiliary testing device remains installed at the first connection point and can be remotely controlled to perform cable verification tests, eliminating the need for the technician to physically travel to the second connection point to disconnect and retrieve the testing device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical travel and manual device handling with an electronic/communication-based system. The wireless transceiver and network communication enable remote control of the auxiliary testing device, substituting the mechanical action of the technician traveling back and forth with electronic signals transmitted over the network.
2Productivity
If technicians reduce travel time to meet service level agreements, then productivity improves, but standard testing procedures may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary testing device performs self-service by automatically executing cable verification tests when remotely controlled. The device can autonomously perform continuity testing, fault identification, and other verification functions without requiring the technician's physical presence at the second connection point, ensuring standard procedures are followed while maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the auxiliary testing device transmits test results and status information back to the technician through the network. This allows the technician to monitor and control the testing process remotely, ensuring that standard procedures are properly executed while maintaining efficient job completion.
3Loss of time
If auxiliary testing devices with remote control capability are deployed, then travel time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary testing device is designed as a multi-functional unit that combines tone generation, wireless communication, network connectivity, and multiple testing capabilities (continuity testing, fault identification, cable verification) into a single device. This universality allows one device to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require separate equipment and manual operations.
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
The system significantly reduces the time spent by technicians traveling between connection points, allowing for more efficient cable verification and qualification tests, while also improving safety by minimizing on-site travel.
Implementation Method 1
The tone generator, or visual fault locator, once communicably coupled to the twisted pair, or fiber optic cable, generates and transmits a detectable signal, hereinafter referred to as a 'tone,' from the first connection point to a second connection point.
Implementation Method 2
The wireless transceiver is configured to be capable of connecting to the network
Implementation Method 3
one or more auxiliary testing devices each comprise a control board, a power supply, a plurality of latching relays, and one or more pairs of leads
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a cable verification system 1 for efficiently tracing, identifying, and performing cable verification testing for one or more telecommunication cables 5. The cable verification system 1 comprises one or more auxiliary testing devices 10, a software application 20, a portable communication device 30, a network 40, a probe 50, and a network cable testing device 60. The one or more auxiliary testing devices 10 each are capable of being remotely controlled and operated.