RFID Tags on Optical Transceivers for Automated Network Data Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current telecommunications network management is labor-intensive and prone to errors due to manual recording of patch cable configurations and lack of real-time updates, and there is a challenge in accessing identity and diagnostic information from network equipment, particularly for components upstream of the physical layer.
Innovation Solution
A radio-frequency identification (RFID)-based system that includes optical transceivers with RFID tags and RF readers to automatically collect and communicate identity and diagnostic information from optical fiber connectors and electronics equipment, enabling real-time updates and accurate database management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual recording and entry of configuration data is used, then information can be collected, but the process is labor-intensive and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical recording processes with an automated RFID-based system. RFID tags attached to network equipment and cables enable automatic detection and recording of configuration data, eliminating the need for manual writing and entry of configuration information into the network management database.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the network equipment itself to provide configuration information through RFID tags. When equipment is installed or moved, the RFID system automatically captures and updates configuration data without requiring technician intervention for data entry, making the system self-updating.
2Reliability
If manual updates are performed after configuration changes, then the database can be maintained, but delays occur in providing up-to-date information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous feedback through RFID readers that automatically scan and detect configuration changes in real-time. When network equipment is installed, moved, or reconfigured, the RFID system immediately detects these changes and updates the network management database, ensuring the database always reflects the current state without manual intervention delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous operation by constantly monitoring network equipment through RFID tags. The automatic detection and update process runs continuously, ensuring that configuration data is always current and the database remains synchronized with the actual network state without interruption or delay.
3Measurement precision
If manual recording is used, then configuration data can be captured, but errors accumulate over time reducing trustworthiness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces error-prone manual recording with automated RFID-based data capture. The system automatically reads configuration data from RFID tags attached to network equipment and cables, eliminating human errors in writing and transcribing configuration information, thereby ensuring high accuracy and trustworthiness of the network management database.
4Ease of operation
If field technicians manually obtain identity and diagnostic information, then network status can be assessed, but the process is labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual information gathering by technicians with automated RFID-based detection. RFID tags on network equipment and cables store identity and diagnostic information that can be automatically read by RFID readers, eliminating the need for technicians to manually collect and record this information.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies of configuration and diagnostic data stored on RFID tags and automatically transfers this information to the network management database. This eliminates the need for technicians to manually transcribe information, as the system automatically copies and processes the data.
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 RFID-based system automates the collection of information, reducing manual errors and providing real-time network configuration updates, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of network management databases and facilitating efficient monitoring and diagnosis of network issues.
Implementation Method 1
a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag adapted to generate an RFID-tag signal that includes information stored in the RFID tag
Data Source
AI summary
Radio-frequency identification-(RFID)-based systems and methods for collecting telecommunications information is disclosed. The methods include storing transceiver information in a transceiver and connector information in an optical fiber connector, and then operably connecting the connector to the transceiver. The connection results in an electrical connection that allows the transceiver information to be communicated to the connector. The connector has a RFID tag that generates a connector RFID-tag signal that includes the connector information and the transceiver information. When electronics equipment are connected to the transceiver, electronics-equipment information is passed through the transceiver to the connector so that the electronics-equipment information can be included in the connector RFID-tag signal. The transceiver may also include a transceiver RFID tag that can receive connector information and electronics-equipment information and generate a transceiver RFID-tag signal that includes connector, transceiver and/or electronics-equipment information. A Portable test device is also used to connect to the transceiver or the electronics equipment to effectuate the transfer of transceiver and/or electronics-equipment information.