TAE Plug-In Module for Automated Subscriber-Line Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing telecommunications networks lack a reliable method to quickly and automatically identify the correct connection of subscriber lines to customer locations, complicating fault diagnosis and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A plug-in module for telecommunications connection units equipped with a readable memory and a locking mechanism, allowing unique identification and ensuring secure, one-time installation, which can be read locally or remotely using a reading device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a plug-in module with readable memory is installed in the TAE, then identification speed and automation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a memory device that stores identification information as a digital copy of the TAE's identifying data. This allows the TAE to be identified by reading the stored information rather than through complex physical inspection or manual verification processes, thereby automating identification while keeping the added complexity minimal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual identification methods (mechanical inspection, visual verification) with an automated reading device that electronically reads identification information from the memory. This substitution of mechanical/manual processes with electronic reading automation the identification process while avoiding significant mechanical complexity.
2Reliability
If a locking device is implemented to prevent removal, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is implemented as a separate functional component within the plug-in module, distinct from the memory device. This segmentation allows the locking mechanism to be independently optimized for reliability while the overall module design maintains ease of installation. The locking function is divided into specific mechanical elements that work together to provide secure attachment.
3Measurement precision
If remote reading capability is added, then measurement precision and fault diagnosis are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reading device is designed with universal functionality that allows it to read identification information from memory devices in multiple contexts - both remotely for automated identification and locally for detailed verification. This multi-functionality enables the same device to serve multiple purposes (remote reading, local reading, fault diagnosis, installation verification) without requiring separate specialized equipment for each function, thereby improving measurement precision while limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
To improve and/or simplify the setup of a telephone connection, the invention provides a plug-in module (700, 710, 720, 730, 740) for plugging onto a telecommunications connection unit (100, 101, 102), which comprises at least one plug connector (721, 722, 731) that can be plugged into a connection socket of the telecommunications connection unit and a data storage device (170) with identification information that can be stored therein and which can be read via connections of the plug connector by means of an external device (160, 210), wherein the plug connector has a locking device (660, 725) which, when used as intended, only allows the plug-in module to be plugged onto the telecommunications connection unit once and prevents the plug-in module from being removed from the telecommunications connection unit.Furthermore, the invention provides a corresponding readout device and a method for identifying a plug-in module (700, 710, 720, 730, 740).