Remote Telephony Replacement via Network Data Query

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Solution Overview

Problem

Replacing telephony apparatus in a distributed telephony network is time-consuming and requires significant planning and effort, as existing methods necessitate on-site engineers and manual handling of replacement devices and configuration files.

Innovation Solution

A method that involves receiving identification data for the apparatus to be replaced, acquiring and conveying apparatus data through a data structure within the network, allowing remote replacement and configuration of new apparatus without the need for on-site engineers, using a data structure like a look-up table to associate identification and apparatus data, and transmitting this data via the telephony network.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual replacement methods with on-site engineers are used, then replacement reliability is ensured, but replacement time and operational complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereplacement reliabilityVSAvoidreplacement time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables telephony apparatus to perform self-configuration by automatically receiving identification data, querying the data structure for apparatus data, and configuring themselves without requiring on-site engineers. The replacement process becomes autonomous where the apparatus handles its own configuration and registration with the communications manager.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical operations (physical presence of engineers, manual file handling) with automated electronic processes. The system uses electronic identification data, automated data structure queries, and network-based configuration transmission to eliminate the need for physical on-site intervention during replacement.

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

2Manufacturing precision

If on-site engineers manually handle replacement devices, then configuration accuracy is ensured, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system creates and maintains a data structure that stores apparatus data as a copy or representation of the telephony apparatus configuration. Instead of manually copying configuration files, the system automatically queries the data structure for the appropriate apparatus data and transfers it electronically, simplifying the operation while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The data structure serves as an intermediary between the replacement apparatus and the communications manager. It stores identification data and apparatus data, enabling automated queries and data transfers without requiring direct manual intervention from engineers, thus reducing operational complexity while ensuring configuration accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If all telephones are replaced in a distributed network, then network reliability improves, but the effort and time required for replacement planning increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork reliabilityVSAvoidreplacement planning complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides a universal solution applicable to all telephony apparatus in the network through a common data structure and automated process. The same mechanism works for single or bulk replacements, distributed or centralized locations, eliminating the need for separate planning approaches for different scenarios and reducing overall complexity.

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

Data Source

PatentUS10104238B2Method and system for replacing telephony apparatus in an IP telephony network
Publication Date: 2018.10.16 UNIFIED FX LTD
  • US10104238B2 patent drawing
  • US10104238B2 patent drawing
  • US10104238B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a method of replacing at a first location in a telephony network first telephony apparatus comprising apparatus data with second telephony apparatus. The method comprises receiving at a second location in the telephony network remote from the first location identification data for the first telephony apparatus, the identification data providing for identification of the first telephony apparatus from among plural telephony apparatus in the telephony network. The method also comprises acquiring apparatus data for the first telephony apparatus from a data structure in dependence on the identification data, the data structure comprising the identification data and the apparatus data. The method further comprises replacing in the telephony network the first telephony apparatus with the second telephony apparatus. The method yet further comprises conveying the acquired apparatus data from the second location to the second telephony apparatus by way of the telephony network.