Telecom Switching Matrix with Remote Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current telecommunications networks face high costs and inefficiencies in managing physical copper wiring connections, particularly when new services are added or existing services are changed, due to the need for manual field engineer visits and the waste of resources from over-provisioning full non-blocking functionality in cross bar and Clos networks.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a first and second distribution matrix connected to a crossover matrix, allowing for remote control of switching elements to manage connections within the matrices, reducing the need for manual field engineer visits and minimizing resource waste by using recursive matrix cycles and simple 2×2 switching elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a cross bar or Clos network is used for automated connections, then the need for manual field engineer visits is reduced, but the initial purchase cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The switching system is divided into multiple 2×2 switching elements arranged in a distributed matrix configuration rather than using a single large cross bar or Clos network. This segmentation allows automated switching functionality to be achieved through many simple, inexpensive units working together, reducing the initial purchase cost while maintaining automation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses numerous inexpensive 2×2 switching elements instead of expensive cross bar or Clos network components. These simple switching elements can be easily replaced and configured, providing cost-effective automated switching without requiring large initial investment in complex hardware.
2Adaptability or versatility
If full non-blocking functionality is provisioned in cross bar and Clos networks, then connection flexibility is maximized, but resource waste occurs since 90-95% of connections remain unchanged
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of provisioning full non-blocking functionality across the entire network, the patent implements partial reconfiguration capability using simple 2×2 switching elements. The system provides just enough switching flexibility to handle the 5-10% of connections that need to be changed, avoiding the resource waste associated with over-provisioning full non-blocking capability for all connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies switching functionality locally at each 2×2 switching element rather than globally across the entire network. Each switching element can be independently configured to handle local connection changes, providing adaptability where needed while minimizing overall resource consumption and avoiding waste in areas where connections remain unchanged.
3Quantity of substance
If the number of cross bars is increased to handle more connections, then connection capacity increases, but the cost increases due to the square relationship between cross bars and cross points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the switching function into multiple 2×2 elements that can be scaled linearly to increase connection capacity. Instead of requiring a quadratic increase in cross points as with cross bar networks, the segmented approach allows capacity expansion by simply adding more inexpensive switching elements in a distributed configuration, avoiding the cost escalation associated with increasing cross bar size.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus (100), network and a method for switching-in and switching-off telecommunications or data services in a telecommunications or data network to a plurality of subscribers (102, 120, 122), the apparatus (100) comprising a first distribution matrix (104) connected to a crossover matrix (108) and a second distribution matrix (106) connected to said crossover matrix (108), wherein the crossover matrix (108) is adapted to be connected to a main cable (110) and to a distribution cable (112) and crossover switching elements for switching of connections within said crossover matrix (108) and distribution switching elements for switching of connections within said distribution matrices (104, 106) are controlled from a remote location, wherein the first distribution matrix (104) and the second distribution matrix (106) are adapted to be connected to a node for providing plurality of telecommunications or data services (114).