Voice-Based IAD Configuration via Speech Dialog

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for configuring connections between telecommunications networks and integrated access devices are complex, time-consuming, and costly, often requiring additional devices like computers for setup, which can be daunting for end customers.

Innovation Solution

A method utilizing a voice connection through a speech dialog system to configure integrated access devices without the need for additional devices, using a physical communication channel between the access node and the integrated access device, allowing for simple and cost-effective setup of IP-based telecommunications services.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional configuration methods using input masks, browser programs, or pre-configuration are used, then the integrated access device can be configured with necessary access data, but the configuration process becomes complex, time-consuming, and requires additional devices like computers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration completenessVSAvoidconfiguration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual configuration operations (keyboard input, mouse clicks, browser navigation) with an automated speech dialog system. The configuration process is transformed from a mechanical interaction requiring user skill to an automated voice-guided process, eliminating the need for computers and reducing complexity while maintaining configuration completeness

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

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated access device performs self-configuration through the speech dialog system without requiring external devices or manual intervention. The device automatically receives configuration data transmitted via the voice connection and configures itself, enabling commissioning by non-expert users and eliminating the need for technical support

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If additional devices like computers are required for configuration, then comprehensive configuration can be achieved, but user fear and need for support increase, making the process more expensive and less accessible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoiduser accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The speech dialog system acts as an intermediary between the user and the integrated access device configuration process. It guides users through simple voice commands or keypad inputs, translating user intent into configuration actions without requiring users to directly interact with complex technical interfaces or external devices, thereby improving accessibility while maintaining accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical requirement of connecting and operating a computer with a simple telephone connection and voice interaction. This substitution eliminates the barrier of needing technical devices and skills, making the configuration process accessible to all users regardless of their technical expertise or available equipment

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

3Reliability

If manual configuration with user interfaces is used, then the integrated access device can be set up, but the process becomes lengthy and expensive due to required advice and support

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration successVSAvoidconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The speech dialog system performs preliminary guidance and validation of configuration data before finalization. It proactively guides users through each step, validates inputs in real-time, and prevents errors before they occur, ensuring configuration success while minimizing the time required for corrections and support interventions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP2608453B1Method for constructing and for configuring a connection between a telecommunications network and an integrated access apparatus, and computer program thereto
Publication Date: 2018.07.18 DEUTSCHE TELEKOM AG
  • EP2608453B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2

AI summary

The method involves providing a physical communication channel between the access node of telecommunication network (5) and IAD (10). The IAD is detected and identified through the telecommunication network. The interactive voice response system is started with respect to a voice connection. The IAD is configured through the physical communication channel. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) IAD; (2) computer program for setting-up and/or configuring connection between telecommunication network and IAD; and (3) computer program product for setting-up and/or configuring connection between telecommunication network and IAD.