U.S. patent application number 11/638812 was filed with the patent office on 2010-07-15 for rfid systems and methods for optical fiber network deployment and maintenance.
Invention is credited to John D. Downie, David R. Kozischek, Leo Nederlof, James S. Sutherland, Mark P. Taylor, Richard E. Wagner, Matthew S. Whiting.
Application Number | 20100178058 11/638812 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39386175 |
Filed Date | 2010-07-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100178058 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kozischek; David R. ; et
al. |
July 15, 2010 |
RFID SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPTICAL FIBER NETWORK DEPLOYMENT AND
MAINTENANCE
Abstract
An optical-fiber-network (OFN) radio-frequency identification
(RFID) system for deploying and/or maintaining an OFN. The system
includes a plurality of OFN components, and at least one RFID tag
that includes RFID tag data that has at least one property of the
OFN component associated with the RFID tag. The RFID tag data is
written to and read from the RFID tags prior, during or after
deploying the OFN components. An OFN-component-data database unit
is used to store and process the RFID tag data. This allows for
different maps of the OFN to be made, such as an inventory map and
a maintenance map. The OFN-RFID system allows for automated
operations and management of OFN components by service personnel,
and provides for faster and more accurate OFN system deployment and
maintenance.
Inventors: |
Kozischek; David R.;
(Hickory, NC) ; Downie; John D.; (Painted Post,
NY) ; Sutherland; James S.; (Corning, NY) ;
Wagner; Richard E.; (Painted Post, NY) ; Taylor; Mark
P.; (Montour Falls, NY) ; Whiting; Matthew S.;
(Lawrenceville, PA) ; Nederlof; Leo; (Antwerpen,
BE) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CORNING INCORPORATED
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DEPARTMENT, SP-TI-3-1
CORNING
NY
14831
US
|
Family ID: |
39386175 |
Appl. No.: |
11/638812 |
Filed: |
December 14, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
398/115 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L 41/0806 20130101;
H04L 12/66 20130101; H04L 41/0886 20130101; H04Q 11/0067 20130101;
H04Q 2011/0079 20130101; H04L 43/0811 20130101; H04L 41/12
20130101; H04L 43/0829 20130101; H04L 41/0856 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
398/115 |
International
Class: |
H04B 10/00 20060101
H04B010/00 |
Claims
1. A radio-frequency identification (RFID) method of deploying
and/or maintaining an optical fiber network (OFN), comprising:
providing a plurality of RFID tags, each of the plurality of RFID
tags associated with one of a plurality of OFN components in the
OFN; writing component data to a plurality of RFID tags, each of
the plurality of RFID tags associated with a corresponding OFN
component of the plurality of OFN components, wherein the component
data relates to at least one property of the corresponding OFN
component; and recording and storing the OFN component data in an
OFN-component-data database unit, wherein the OFN component data
shows a relationship among two or more of the plurality of OFN
components.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: installing the OFN
components in the OFN; and performing said providing of at least
one RFID tag prior to said installing.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising reading at least one
or more of the RFID tags either during or after deploying the
OFN.
4. The method of claim 1, further comprising: including in said OFN
component data a location of the corresponding OFN component either
as deployed or as to be deployed in the OFN; and using said
location data to create a spatial map of the OFN.
5. The method of claim 4, including showing the spatial map of the
OFN with a geographical map having geographical features, so as to
locate the OFN components relative to geographical features.
6. The method of claim 4, further comprising: locating at least one
select OFN component based on said spatial OFN map; and reading the
corresponding at least one RFID tag associated with the at least
one select OFN component.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising: including inventory
data in the OFN component data; and using said inventory data to
create an inventory map of the OFN.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the OFN includes an optical fiber
cable having a length, and including: positioning RFID tags along
the length of the optical fiber cable; and including as OFN
component data the relative locations of the RFID tags along the
optical fiber cable.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of OFN components
includes at least one patch panel, and further comprising:
including, in at least one patch-panel RFID tag corresponding to
the at least one patch panel, at least one OFN component data
element from the group of OFN component data elements comprising:
port identification, loss per port, and connectivity for each
port.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of OFN components
includes at least one splitter module, and further comprising:
including, in at least one splitter-module RFID tag corresponding
to the at least one splitter module, at least one OFN component
data element from the group of OFN component data elements
comprising: shelf ID, port identification, loss data at a given
wavelength, terminal ID, street name, street address, pole number,
and GPS coordinates.
11. A radio-frequency identification (RFID) system for deploying
and/or maintaining an optical fiber network (OFN), comprising: a
plurality of RFID tags, each of the plurality of RFID tags affixed
to a corresponding one of a plurality of OFN components in the OFN,
wherein two or more of the plurality of RFID tags contain OFN
component data that relates to at least one property of the
corresponding OFN component; at least one RFID tag reader adapted
to read the OFN component data from the two or more of the
plurality of RFID tags; and an OFN component data database unit
adapted to receive and store OFN component data read by the at
least one RFID tag reader, wherein the OFN component data shows a
relationship among two or more of the plurality of OFN
components.
12. The RFID system of claim 11, wherein the OFN components include
one or more OFN components selected from the group of OFN
components comprising: a feeder cable, a distribution cable, a drop
cable, a splitter, a splitter module, a network access point (NAP),
an enclosure, a cabinet, a terminal, a patch panel, a patch cord, a
splice box, a fiber connector, a coupler, an optical amplifier, a
wavelength multiplexer, a wavelength demultiplexer, an optical line
terminal (OLT), a filter, a light source, an optical receiver, an
optical transmitter, an intrafacility cable, a local convergence
point (LCP), a network interface device (NID), a fiber distribution
frame (FDF), and a fiber equipment module.
13. The RFID system of claim 12, wherein one of the OFN components
is a splitter module, and wherein the OFN component data for the
splitter module includes at least one data element selected from
the group of data elements comprising: a shelf location, a port
identification, a loss at a given wavelength, a terminal
identification, a street name, a street address, and GPS
coordinates.
14. The RFID system of claim 12, wherein one of the OFN components
is a patch panel having a number of optical fiber connection ports,
and wherein the OFN component data for the patch panel include one
or more data elements selected from the group of data elements
comprising: GPS coordinates, a shelf location, a port
identification, a loss for each port, a destination for each port,
and a status of each port.
15. The RFID system of claim 11, wherein: the database unit
includes a microprocessor having graphical user interface (GUI)
capability and adapted to process the OFN component data stored in
the database unit; and a display operably coupled to the
microprocessor and adapted to interactively display the OFN
component data as processed by the microprocessor.
16. The RFID system of claim 11, wherein at least one of the RFID
tag readers is adapted to read RFID tag signals from RFID tags
located underground.
17. A radio-frequency identification (RFID) system for deploying
and/or maintaining an optical fiber network (OFN) that is optically
coupled to a central office (CO), comprising: at least one
feeder-cable RFID tag fixed to a feeder cable that is optically
coupled to the CO, with the at least one feeder-cable RFID tag
having feeder-cable data relating to one or more properties of the
feeder cable; at least one local convergence point (LCP) RFID tag
fixed to a local convergence point (LCP) that is operably connected
to the feeder cable, with the at least one LCP RFID tag having LCP
data relating to one or more properties of the LCP; at least one
distribution-cable RFID tag fixed to a distribution cable that is
operably coupled to the LCP, with the at least one
distribution-cable RFID tag having distribution-cable data relating
to one or more properties of the distribution cable; at least one
network access point (NAP) RFID tag fixed to a NAP that is operably
coupled to the LCP via the distribution cable, with the at least
one NAP RFID tag having NAP data relating to one or more properties
of the NAP; at least one network interface device (NID) RFID tag
fixed to a NID that is operably coupled to the LCP via a drop
cable, with the at least one NID RFID tag having NID data relating
to one or more properties of the NID; one or more RFID tag readers
adapted to read at least one of the at least one feeder-cable RFID
tag, the at least one LCP RFID tag, the at least one
distribution-cable RFID tag, the at least one NAP RFID tag, and the
at least one NID RFID tag, and provide corresponding feeder-cable
data, LCP data, distribution-cable data, NAP data, and NID data;
and an OFN component database unit adapted to receive and store the
feeder-cable data, the LCP data, the distribution-cable data, the
NAP data and the NID data.
18. The RFID system of claim 17, wherein the feeder cable has a
feeder cable length, the distribution cable has a distribution
cable length, and wherein the at least one feeder-cable RFID tag
and the at least one distribution-cable RFID tag are respectively
positioned along the feeder cable and the distribution cable along
their respective lengths.
19. The RFID system of claim 17, further including: one or more
drop-cable RFID tags fixed to the drop cable, with each drop-cable
RFID tag having drop-cable data relating to one or more properties
of the drop cable; and wherein the one or more RFID tag readers are
further adapted to read the one or more drop-cable RFID tags and
the OFN component database unit is further adapted to receive and
store the drop-cable data.
20. The RFID system of claim 17, wherein: the database unit
includes a microprocessor having graphical user interface (GUI)
capability and adapted to process OFN component data stored in the
OFN database unit; and a display operably coupled to the
microprocessor and adapted to interactively display the OFN
component data as processed by the microprocessor.
21. The RFID method of claim 1, further comprising: using the OFN
component data to identify which of the OFN components are
associated with a particular subscriber.
22. The RFID method of claim 1, further comprising: including in
the OFN component data GPS coordinates indicating a location of the
corresponding OFN component.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to optical-fiber-based
communication systems and networks, and particularly to systems and
methods of deploying and maintaining optical fiber networks using
radio-frequency identification (RFID) systems and methods.
[0003] 2. Technical Background
Optical Networks
[0004] The typical optical fiber network (OFN) includes one or more
central offices (COs), one or more remote nodes (RNs) connected to
the COs by corresponding optical fiber links, a number of network
interface devices (NIDs) coupled to respective RNs by corresponding
optical fiber links, and a number of termination points coupled to
the NIDs by additional optical fiber links. There are a number of
different types of OFNs. One general type of OFN is called an
active point-to-point architecture, which includes the Home Run
Fiber (HRF) and Active Star Ethernet (ASE). Another general type of
OFN is called a passive point-to-multipoint architecture, which
includes the Passive Optical Network (PON). A PON has no active
components between the CO and the termination location to which the
service is delivered. Because of the different termination options
for an OFN, for simplicity the abbreviated expression "fiber to the
x" (FTTx) has been adopted, wherein the "x" represents the
particular termination point. The termination point may be, for
example, a "premise," a home, the "curb," or a "node." Thus, in the
acronym-intensive language of OFNs, a PON architecture used to
provide service to one or more homes is abbreviated as FTTH-PON.
The details of the particular FTTx network architecture used
depends on the termination point and the service goals of the
network, as well as on network cost and the existing optical fiber
related infrastructure ("outside plant" or OSP). The deployment and
maintenance of an OFN is an equipment-intensive and labor-intensive
undertaking. A network service provider that receives the various
components for the network from one or more manufacturers typically
installs an OFN. The various OFN components (e.g., cabinets,
terminals, enclosures, patch panel ports, optical fiber cable,
optical fiber cable connectors, hardware, equipment, etc.) must be
received, installed, inventoried, and maintained in an organized
manner.
[0005] In OFN deployment, there is the need to positively identify
and characterize the OFN components. This applies to the cabling
(aerial or buried) as well as to the other aforementioned OFN
components. Currently this process is carried out by visual
identification, using foot markers printed on outside cable
jackets, and color-coding and labeling of connectors, ports,
enclosures, etc. During the initial installation as well as during
operations and maintenance, significant time is spent associating
the various OFN components and their characteristics to an
inventory database, which is updated manually. Besides the extra
time spent, there is a high risk of errors due to
misidentification, database entry errors or failures to correctly
update the database.
[0006] An OFN is typically deployed over a relatively large
geographical area, with the optical fiber cables and other ONF
components being installed either below ground or above ground.
Thus, the ability to quickly locate and identify the various
network components and obtain information about their installation
and operating status can provide significant labor and cost savings
with regard to deploying and maintaining the OFN, and can increase
OFN uptime.
Radio-Frequency Identification
[0007] Radio-frequency identification (RFID) is a remote
recognition technique that utilizes RFID tags having microcircuits
adapted to store information and perform basic signal processing.
The stored information is retrievable via RF communication between
the RFID tag and a RFID tag reader. The typical RFID system
utilizes a RFID tag reader (e.g., hand-held) that when brought
sufficiently close to a RFID tag is able to read a RFID tag signal
emitted by the tag, usually in response to an interrogation signal
from the RFID tag reader. One form of RFID tag relies on the
interrogation signal from the RFID reader to provide power to the
tag. Other forms of RFID tags have internal power sources.
[0008] The data encoded into a RFID tag can generally be written at
a distance, and some types of RFID tags can be re-written multiple
times. Each RFID application has its own unique issues and
circumstances that require the RFID system to be engineered
accordingly.
[0009] In view of the above-described issues associated with the
deployment and maintenance of OFNs and the benefits of RFID
technology, there is a need for systems and methods that integrate
RFID technology with OFNs to facilitate OFN deployment and
maintenance.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] One aspect of the invention is a RFID method of deploying
and/or maintaining an OFN. The method includes providing at least
one RFID tag on at least one OFN component of a plurality of OFN
components that constitute the OFN. The method also includes
writing, to at least one RFID tag, data relating to at least one
property of the corresponding OFN component. The method further
includes recording and storing the OFN component data in an
OFN-component-data database unit.
[0011] Another aspect of the invention is a RFID system for
deploying and/or maintaining an OFN. The system includes at least
one RFID tag affixed to at least one OFN component of a plurality
of OFN components that constitute the OFN, wherein the at least one
RFID tag affixed to the at least one OFN component contains OFN
component data that relates to at least one property of the OFN
component. The system also includes at least one RFID tag reader
adapted to read the OFN component data from the at least one RFID
tag. The system further includes an OFN component data database
unit adapted to receive and store OFN component data read by the at
least one RFID tag reader.
[0012] Another aspect of the invention is a RFID system for
deploying and/or maintaining an optical fiber network (OFN) that is
optically coupled to a central office (CO). The system includes at
least one feeder-cable RFID tag fixed to a feeder cable that is
optically coupled to the CO, with the at least one feeder-cable
RFID tag having feeder-cable data relating to one or more
properties of the feeder cable. The system also includes at least
one local convergence point (LCP) RFID tag fixed to a local
convergence point (LCP) that is operably connected to the feeder
cable, with the at least one LCP RFID tag having LCP data relating
to one or more properties of the LCP. The system further includes
at least one distribution-cable RFID tag fixed to a distribution
cable that is operably coupled to the LCP, with the at least one
distribution-cable RFID tag having distribution-cable data relating
to one or more properties of the distribution cable. The system
also includes at least one network access point (NAP) RFID tag
fixed to a NAP that is operably coupled to the LCP via the
distribution cable, with the at least one NAP RFID tag having NAP
data relating to one or more properties of the NAP. The system
additionally includes at least one network interface device (NID)
RFID tag fixed to a NID that is operably coupled to the LCP via a
drop cable, with the at least one NAP RFID tag having NID data
relating to one or more properties of the NID. The system further
includes one or more RFID tag readers adapted to read at least one
of the feeder-cable RFID tags, the LCP RFID tags, the
distribution-cable RFID tags, the NAP RFID tags, and the NID RFID
tags, and provide corresponding feeder-cable data, LCP data,
distribution-cable data, NAP data, and NID data. The system also
includes an OFN component database unit adapted to receive and
store the feeder-cable data, the LCP data, the distribution-cable
data, the NAP data and the NID data.
[0013] Additional features and advantages of the invention will be
set forth in the following detailed description, and in part will
be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that
description or recognized by practicing the invention as described
herein, including the following detailed description, the claims,
as well as the appended drawings.
[0014] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general
description and the following detailed description present
embodiments of the invention, and are intended to provide an
overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of
the invention as it is claimed. The accompanying drawings are
included to provide a further understanding of the invention, and
are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification.
The drawings illustrate various embodiments of the invention, and
together with the description serve to explain the principles and
operations of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a general schematic diagram of an example
embodiment of an OFN-RFID system according to the present
invention, wherein the OFN is shown in the form of an FTTx-PON;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a detailed schematic diagram of an example
embodiment of the central office (CO) of the OFN-RFID system of
FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a detailed schematic diagram of an example
embodiment of a local convergence point (LCP) of the OFN-RFID
system of FIG. 1;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a detailed schematic diagram of an example
embodiment of a network access point (NAP) of the OFN-RFID system
of FIG. 1;
[0019] FIG. 5 is a detailed schematic diagram of an example
embodiment of a RFID tag attached to a general OFN component, and
also showing the details of an example RFID tag reader and an
example database unit in operable communication therewith;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a schematic front-on view of an example splitter
module rack that houses three splitter modules, wherein each
splitter module includes a splitter-module RFID tag;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a schematic front-on view of a single splitter
module of FIG. 6, showing an example embodiment wherein each port
has an associated port RFID tag;
[0022] FIG. 8 is a schematic front-on view of an example
patch-panel rack that houses six patch panels, wherein each patch
panel includes a patch-panel RFID tag;
[0023] FIG. 9 is a close-up view of one of the patch panels of FIG.
8, illustrating the patch-panel ports and the patch-panel RFID
tag;
[0024] FIG. 10 shows an example embodiment of an interactive
OFN-RFID map as shown on the display of the database unit;
[0025] FIG. 11 illustrates an example embodiment wherein an
OFN-RFID interactive map is shown along with a geographical
map;
[0026] FIG. 12 shows an example information table as displayed on
the database unit display when the cursor "clicks on" a
distribution-cable RFID tag icon in the OFN-RFID map of FIG.
10;
[0027] FIG. 13 shows an example maintenance log table as displayed
on the database unit display when the cursor "clicks on" the
maintenance log icon of the information table of FIG. 12;
[0028] FIG. 14 shows the interactive OFN-RFID map of FIG. 10, but
with the cursor moved to a the LCP active icon; and
[0029] FIG. 15 shows an example of a more detailed interactive map
of the LCP and its components as displayed when the LCP icon in the
OFN-RFID map of FIG. 14 is clicked on.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0030] Reference is now made to the present preferred embodiments
of the invention, examples of which is/are illustrated in the
accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference
numbers or letters are used throughout the drawings to refer to the
same or like parts.
[0031] The term "OFN component" as used herein is generally any
component used in any type of OFN, and includes but is not limited
to: a feeder cable, a distribution cable, a drop cable, a network
access point (NAP), an enclosure, a splice box, a cabinet, a
terminal, a patch panel, a patch cord, a fiber connector, an
optical splitter, a splitter module, a coupler, an optical
amplifier, a wavelength multiplexer, a wavelength demultiplexer, an
optical line terminal, a filter, a light source, an optical
receiver, an optical transmitter, an intrafacility cable, a local
convergence point (LCP), a network interface device (NID), a fiber
distribution frame (FDF), an equipment module, or any other
OFN-related hardware, including fiber-related hardware.
[0032] In the discussion below, the term "data" is used in the
singular and represents a collection of one or more pieces of
information. The term "RFID tag data" refers to data stored in or
to be stored in a RFID tag, which data contains at least one
property of the corresponding OFN component associated with the
RFID tag.
[0033] Also, the term "electromagnetic signals" as used to describe
the signals communicated between a RFID tag and a RFID reader
includes free-space radio waves as well as magnetic inductive
coupling.
[0034] For the sake of convenience, the following is a list of the
acronyms used in this application:
[0035] OFN=optical fiber network
[0036] CO=central office
[0037] RFID=radio-frequency identification.
[0038] PON=passive optical network.
[0039] FTTx="fiber-to-the-x," where "x" is the fiber cable
endpoint.
[0040] LCP=local convergence point
[0041] NAP=network access point
[0042] NID=network interface device
[0043] GPS=global positioning system
[0044] OLT=optical line terminal
[0045] OSP=outside plant
[0046] GUI=graphical user interface
[0047] FDF=fiber distribution frame
[0048] dB=decibels
The OFN-RFID System
[0049] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of an
OFN-RFID system 6 according to the present invention. OFN-RFID
system 6 is interfaced with one or more components C.sub.n of an
OFN 10 via one or more RFID tags T.sub.n, as described below.
OFN-RFID system 6 is adapted to facilitate deploying and/or
maintaining an OFN 10 by a service provider and their service
personnel. OFN 10 as presented in FIG. 1 is in the form of a
FTTx-PON for the sake of illustration. It will be understood by
those skilled in the art that the present invention is generally
applicable to all of the different types of active and passive OFNs
and their respective physical plants.
[0050] With reference to FIG. 1, OFN 10 includes one or more COs
20, which is the main switching facility of the OFN. OFN 10 is
shown with a single CO 20 for ease of illustration. Coupled to CO
20 are a number of external networks EN, such as for example the
Internet IN for data and video services, and a public switched
telephone network (PSTN) for telephone services, and a cable TV
network (CATV) for entertainment video services. External networks
EN provide CO 20 with external network signals SE that are
distributed via the operation of the CO to select user sites
(subscribers) of the OFN. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an
example embodiment of CO 20 that includes a number of OFN
components adapted to take incoming external network signals SE and
establish temporary connections to select optical fibers in the OFN
in order provide the external network signals to the OFN
subscribers. CO 20 includes, for example, an optical line terminal
(OLT) 26 that interfaces with the external networks EN. OLT 26 is
adapted to processes external signals SE and send them to a fiber
distribution frame (FDF) 30 via a cross-connect patch cord 36. FDF
30 is connected to a fiber entrance cabinet 40 via an intrafacility
cable 46. Fiber entrance cabinet 40 is connected to the outside
cable plant (OSP), i.e., feeder cables 50 and the rest of the OFN,
as discussed below.
[0051] With reference again to FIG. 1, OFN 10 also includes at
least one feeder cable 50, with each feeder cable optically coupled
at one end to CO 20 and at the opposite end to a local convergence
point (LCP) 100. Feeder cable 50 may have over 100 optical fibers
52.
[0052] OFN 10 also includes one or more distribution cables 110
operably coupled to a given LCP 100, with each distribution cable
including one or more optical fibers 112. Note that feeder cable(s)
50 and distribution cable(s) 110 may be either buried or supported
above ground.
[0053] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an example LCP 100. LCP 100
includes a distribution cabinet 120 that houses a splitter module
130 having a number of ports P. A typical number of ports is either
16, 32 or 64. Splitter module 130 includes one or more splitters
(not shown). LCP 100 also includes a patch panel 140 that
terminates optical fibers 52 in feeder cable 50 and facilitates
access thereto by splitter module 130.
[0054] With reference again to FIG. 1, OFN 6 includes at least one
network access point (NAP) 200, with each optically connected to a
corresponding LCP 100 via a corresponding distribution cable 110.
OFN 6 also includes one or more drop cables 220 operably coupled to
NAP 200. Each optical drop cable 220 includes one or more optical
fibers 222.
[0055] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of
NAP 200. NAP 200 includes a distribution cabinet 120 that houses
passive optical components, such as patch panel(s) 140 that
includes splice trays and/or connector ports for receiving a
preconnectorized distribution cable 110 and a preconnectorized drop
cable 220. For the sake of illustration, connector ports P are
shown. Patch panel 140 serves to distribute incoming signals from
the individual optical fiber 112 of distribution cable 110 to one
or more drop cables 220 and the individual optical fibers 222
therein. Other example embodiments of NAPs 200 may include other
OFN components, such splitters 130, making them similar to LCPs 100
of FIG. 3.
[0056] With reference again to FIG. 1, each drop cable 220 is
optically coupled to a network interface device (NID) 300. NID 300
(also called a network interface unit, or NIU) is located at a user
site 310. NID 300 includes electrical and/or optical components
(not shown) that enables a user at user site 310 to connect to OFN
6.
RFID Tags in OFN-RFID System
[0057] With continuing reference to FIG. 1, OFN-RFID system 6
includes at least one RFID tag provided to (e.g., fixed or
otherwise attached to) at least one OFN component, and at least one
RFID tag reader 400 adapted to read RFID tags. OFN-RFID system 6
also includes an OFN component data database unit 410 (hereinafter,
"database unit") in operable communication with RFID tag reader
400. To associate RFID tags with given components, the reference
letter T.sub.n is used to represent a RFID tag, where the subscript
"n" is the reference number of the corresponding OFN component,
generally referred by the reference letter C.sub.n.
[0058] FIG. 5 is a detailed schematic diagram of an example
embodiment of a RFID tag T.sub.n attached to OFN component C.sub.n
(e.g., RFID tag T.sub.200 attached to NAP 200 as shown in FIG. 1
and in FIG. 4). FIG. 5 also shows details of RFID tag reader 400
and Database unit 410. RFID tag T.sub.n includes a microcircuit 450
(e.g., in the form of a microchip) electrically connected to a
memory unit 452 and to a receive/transmit antenna 454. Memory unit
452 is adapted to store information ("RFID tag data"), which
includes at least one property of the associated OFN component, but
more typically includes a number of such properties. Typical RFID
tag data includes, for example, the type of component to which the
RFID tag is affixed, the component manufacturer, the manufacturer
part number, the date of component manufacture, the date of
component installation, the component's operational status,
component maintenance information and history, component location
in the OFN (e.g., global positioning system (GPS) coordinates), a
part or other identification number, and so on.
[0059] Microcircuit 450 is adapted to receive an electromagnetic
RFID-tag interrogation signal SI'' emitted by RFID reader via
antenna 480 and to process this signal. The processing includes
comparing the received interrogation signal SI'' to a corresponding
bit sequence stored value in memory unit 452. In an example
embodiment, microcircuit 450 is adapted to use the energy in the
interrogation signal to power itself. If the content of the
received interrogation signal SI'' is confirmed, then microcircuit
450 is adapted to generate a RFID tag signal ST.sub.n
representative of the stored RFID tag data and to transmit this
signal to RFID reader 400 as an electromagnetic tag signal
ST.sub.n'' to be read by RFID tag reader 400.
[0060] In an example embodiment, one or more of the RFID tags are
adapted to generate electromagnetic RFID tag signals at a frequency
that is not significantly affected by soil or water, such as in the
frequency range from 100 KHz to 125 KHz. This is so that the RFID
tag signal can be read even though the corresponding OFN component
is buried underground or covered by water. Here, the
electromagnetic RFID tag signals are based on magnetic inductive
coupling. Suitable RFID tags and associated RFID tag readers are
available from 3M Corporation.
[0061] Also in an example embodiment, at least some of the RFID
tags are adapted to generate RFID tag signals at a frequency
suitable for long-range RFID-tag reading, such at the 915 MHz band
or the 2.45 GHz band. Such RFID tags are best suited for aerial or
aboveground OFN components, or more generally for OFN components
that are not buried or otherwise obstructed by an intervening
RF-frequency-absorbing medium. Suitable RFID tags are available
from Alien Technologies, Inc., as Model Nos. ALL-9440 and
ALL-9350.
[0062] In an example embodiment, RFID tag reader 400 and one or
more of RFID tags T.sub.n are adapted with encryption capability so
that the interrogation signal and the RFID tag signal can be
encrypted to prevent third parties from reading or overwriting RFID
tag data.
Example RFID Tag Reader
[0063] With continuing reference to FIG. 5, an example embodiment
of RFID tag reader 400 includes a receive/transmit antenna 480, a
signal processing circuit 482 electrically connected thereto, and a
memory unit 484 electrically connected to the signal processing
circuit. RFID tag reader 400 also includes other electronic
components that not essential to the present invention and so are
not shown. In an example embodiment, RFID tag reader 400 includes a
GPS circuit 486 adapted to provide GPS data to signal processing
circuit 482 and/or to memory unit 484.
[0064] Signal processing circuit 482 is adapted to generate
interrogation signal SI and transmit it via antenna 480 to RFD tag
T.sub.n as an electromagnetic interrogation signal SI''. Signal
processing circuit 482 is also adapted to write information to RFID
tag T.sub.n based on information either stored in memory unit 484,
entered into the RFID tag reader directly by a user, or
communicated to it from database unit 410, as described below.
[0065] RFID tag reader 400 is also adapted to receive
electromagnetic RFID tag signal ST.sub.n'' via antenna 480, which
converts this signal back to electrical RFID tag signal ST.sub.n.
Signal processing circuit 482 is further adapted to extract the
RFID tag data from this signal and store this data in memory unit
484 and/or transmit this data to database unit 410.
Example Database Unit
[0066] In an example embodiment, RFID tag reader 400 is operably
coupled to database unit 410 so that it can transmit information to
and receive information from the database unit. In an example
embodiment, database unit 410 includes a second transmit/receive
antenna 494 used to wirelessly communicate with RFID tag reader
400, through a Wi-Fi network or through the cellular phone network,
as examples. In another example embodiment, database unit 410 is
operably coupled to RFID tag reader 400 via a non-wireless (e.g.,
an electrical or optical) communication link 492, such as an
Ethernet link.
[0067] Database unit 410 includes a microprocessor 500 operably
connected thereto, a memory unit 510 operably coupled to the
microprocessor, and a display 520 operably coupled to the
microprocessor. In an example embodiment, database unit 410 is or
otherwise includes a computer, such as a laptop computer, personal
computer or workstation. In an example embodiment, database unit
410 is mobile (e.g., as a laptop computer or hand-held device) and
is brought out to the field so as to be accessible to those working
in the field to deploy or maintain OFN 10. Also in an example
embodiment, database unit 410 supports a graphical user interface
(GUI) so that a database-unit user can view graphical images and
interact with interactive graphical images on display 520.
[0068] In an example embodiment, RFID tag reader 400 transmits RFID
tag data to database unit 410 either non-wirelessly via a
non-wireless data signal SD sent over communication link 492, or
wirelessly via electromagnetic data signal SD''. Database unit 410
then stores and processes the RFID tag data, such as described
below.
[0069] Also in an example embodiment, database unit 410 either
wirelessly and/or non-wirelessly transmits write information in
respective information signals SW and/or (electromagnetic) signal
SW'' to RFID tag reader 400. The write information in signals SW or
SW'' is then written by RFID tag reader 400 to one or more RFID
tags T.sub.n and stored therein as RFID tag data.
[0070] Microprocessor 500 in database unit 410 is adapted to
process the RFID tag data to create useful information about the
status of OFN 10 and OFN components C.sub.n. In an example
embodiment, this information is displayed on display 520. In an
example embodiment, the information is represented as graphics, and
further is presented by database unit 410 in the form of one or
more interactive OFN-RFID maps. The OFN-RFID maps may include, for
example, component inventory data, component location data,
component connectivity data and/or component status data. Example
interactive OFN-RFID maps for facilitating the deployment and
maintenance of OFN 10 are discussed in greater detail below.
CO RFID Tags
[0071] FIG. 1 shows a number of RFID tags T.sub.n attached to
different OFN components C.sub.n of OFN 10. With reference also to
FIG. 2, CO 20 includes a OLT-RFID tag T.sub.26 affixed to OLT 26.
OLT RFID tag T.sub.26 includes, for example, information relating
to the manufacturer, manufacturer model number, date of
installation, the last maintenance performed, what was performed
during the last maintenance, what the next maintenance is and when
it is scheduled, the number of PONs served by the OLT, the number
of connections to external networks EN, the types of external
networks served, the exact location of the OLT in the CO,
communication protocols used, etc.
[0072] CO 20 also includes a patch-cord RFID tag T.sub.36 attached
to patch cord 36 and a intrafacility-cable RFID tag T.sub.46. These
RFID tags include, for example, information relating to the
manufacturer, manufacturer part number, date of installation, the
number of connections, type of fiber, etc.
[0073] CO 20 also includes an FDF RFID tag T.sub.30 attached to FDF
30 and a cabinet RFID tag T.sub.40 attached to entrance cabinet 40.
These RFID tags include, for example, information relating to the
manufacturer, manufacturer part number, date of installation, the
number of connections, location of the frame or cabinet, etc.
Feeder Cable RFID Tags
[0074] With reference again also to FIG. 1, OFN-RFID system 6
includes a number of feeder-cable RFID tags T.sub.50 attached to
feeder cables 50. In an example embodiment, feeder-cable RFID tags
T.sub.50 are arranged along the length of each feeder cable 50
(e.g., at fixed intervals) and include information such as their
respective GPS position information, the status of the feeder
cable, the number of optical fibers 52 in the feeder cable, the
last maintenance operation, feeder cable manufacturer, feeder cable
manufacturer model number, the location and type of LCP to which
the feeder cable is connected, the length of cable, the distance
between cable RFID tags, etc. In another example embodiment,
feeder-cable RFID tags T.sub.50 are located at certain important
locations, such as splice locations.
[0075] Feeder cable RFID tags T.sub.50 may also include information
relating to the installation of feeder cables 50, such as the
planned installation destination, installation date, special
instructions regarding the installation (e.g., aerial or buried
cable), and the like.
LCP RFID Tags
[0076] OFN-RFID system 6 also includes a number of LCP RFID tags.
In an example embodiment, a main LCP RFID tag T.sub.100 is attached
to the OSP distribution cabinet 120 and contains information
relating to the general properties of LCP 100, such as the cabinet
location, operational status of the LCP, manufacturer information,
maintenance status, the number and type of internal OFN components,
etc. A splitter-module LCP RFID tag T.sub.130 is attached to
splitter module 130.
[0077] FIG. 6 is a detailed face-on diagram of an example splitter
module rack 554 that houses three splitter modules 130. Each
splitter module 130 has a number of splitter ports P. Twelve such
splitter ports P1 through P12 are shown for the sake of
illustrations. Other numbers of splitter ports, such as 32 and 64
are also often used. A splitter-module RFID tag T.sub.130 is
attached to each splitter module 130. In an example embodiment,
each splitter module 130 also includes a conventional ID tag 556
with a tag ID number that identifies the splitter module, e.g., by
its shelf location in splitter module rack 554. This conventional
ID tag can be placed directly on the RFID tag T.sub.130, as
shown.
[0078] In an example embodiment, RFID tag T.sub.130 includes a
light 560 (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED)) that activates when
the particular RFID tag T.sub.130 is interrogated by RFID tag
reader 400. This helps identify which one of the RFID tags
T.sub.130 is being interrogated and read at a given time.
[0079] Table 1 below presents an example embodiment of RFID tag
data stored in the splitter-module RFID tag T.sub.130 for splitter
module ID# 124290. For the sake of illustration, only the data for
the first six ports P1- through P6 is shown.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 SPLITTER-MODULE RFID TAG DATA Shelf ID #
124290 Port P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 1310 nm Loss (dB) 17 17 17 17 17 17
1550 nm Loss (dB) 17 17 17 17 17 17 Terminal ID 12345 12345 12346
12347 12348 12349 Street Name Elm Street Elm Street Elm Street Elm
Street Elm Street Elm Street Street Address 123 124 125 126 127 128
Pole Number 1 1 2 2 3 3 GPS (Lat, Long) N30 13.477 N30 13.455 N30
13.445 N30 13.402 N30 13.380 N30 13.380 W97 44.315 W97 44.315 W97
44.300 W97 44.269 W97 44.198 W97 44.169 Other Information None None
Faulty port None Repaired None Jun. 22, 2005
[0080] Table 1 includes the shelf ID number--here, ID number 124290
chosen for illustration purposes--that identifies the
splitter-module RFID tag as being located in a particular shelf of
splitter module rack 554. Table 1 includes the following
information for each port: The 1310 nm loss (dB), the 1550 nm loss
(dB), the street name served by the port, the street address served
by the port, the pole number associated with the port, the GPS
coordinates of the location served by the port, and "other
information" that can be added to the RFID tag as needed, such as
the operating status or the maintenance status. Generally speaking,
data can also be written to the RFID tag via RFID reader 400 so
that the data can be updated as needed. In an example embodiment,
RFID tags T.sub.130 contain default deployment data written to the
RFID tag prior to the deployment of LCP 100 or the installation of
splitter module 130 in the LCP.
[0081] In another example embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, each
splitter module 130 includes a port RFID tag T.sub.P for each
splitter port P. Port RFID tags T.sub.P contain, for example,
information about the status of the corresponding port P and its
connectivity.
[0082] FIG. 8 is a detailed face-on diagram of an example
patch-panel rack that includes a number of patch panels 140. Each
patch panel 140 includes a patch-panel RFID tag T.sub.140 attached
thereto. As with splitter-module RFID tag T.sub.130, patch-panel
RFID tag T.sub.140 includes in an example embodiment a light 556
activated by microcircuit 450 when the patch-panel RFID tag is
interrogated by RFID tag reader 400. Patch-panel RFID tag T.sub.140
also includes a conventional ID number that indicates the patch
panel's shelf location in patch-panel rack 600.
[0083] FIG. 9 is a close-up front-on view of patch panel 140,
showing patch-panel RFID tag T.sub.140 and patch-panel ports P1
through P6. Table 2 below presents an example embodiment of data
stored in patch-panel RFID tag T.sub.140 for patch-panel ID #13425
of FIG. 8.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 PATCH-PANEL RFID TAG DATA PANEL ID # 13425
READ/WRITE PORT LOSS (dB) OSP LOCATION P1 0.3 Node 123 Forward P2
0.3 Node 123 Return P3 0.3 Spare P4 0.3 Spare P5 0.3 WALLMART P6
0.3 XYZ, Inc.
[0084] Table 2 includes the patch-panel ID number--here, ID number
13425, chosen for illustration purposes. Table 2 also includes the
patch-panel port number P1 through P6, the loss per port (in dB),
and the OSP location information. Other information, such as
building name, room number, subscriber location, street address,
power levels, maintenance schedules, and the like can be included
in Table 2. Alternately, it is possible to have a separate RFID
tag, with one for each port number P1 through P6, that contains all
of the data pertinent to its associated port.
[0085] Here, it is emphasizing that the prior art approach to OFN
deployment and maintenance involves obtaining such information by
inspection and previous written documentation, and then documenting
the updated information on paper. The paper documents are then
distributed to provide information about the maintenance history of
OFN components C.sub.n such as splitter module 130 and patch panel
140. With RFID tags, this paper documentation is replaced by the
data written into the RFID tags, and is available instantly at the
point of use and at any time it is needed.
Distribution-Cable RFID Tags
[0086] With reference again to FIG. 1, OFN-RFID system 6 includes a
number of distribution-cable RFID tags T.sub.110 attached to
distribution cables 110. In an example embodiment,
distribution-cable RFID tags T.sub.110 are arranged along the
length of each distribution cable 110 (e.g., at fixed intervals).
Distribution-cable RFID tags T.sub.110 include information such as
their respective GPS positions, the status of the distribution
cable, the number of optical fibers 112 in the distribution cable,
the distance between RFID tags, the last maintenance operation, the
distribution-cable manufacturer, distribution-cable manufacturer
model number, the location and type of LCP 100 and NAP 200 to which
the distribution cable is connected, etc. In another example
embodiment, distribution-cable RFID tags T.sub.110 are located at
certain important locations, such as splice locations.
[0087] Distribution-cable RFID tags T.sub.110 may also include
information relating to the installation of distribution cables
110, such as the planned installation destination, installation
date, special instructions regarding the installation (e.g., aerial
or buried cable), and the like.
NAP RFID Tags
[0088] OFN-RFID system 6 also includes a number of NAP RFID tags. A
main NAP RFID tag T.sub.200 is attached to the distribution cabinet
120 and contains information relating to the general properties of
NAP 200, such as the cabinet location, operational status of the
NAP, manufacturer information, maintenance status, the number and
type of internal OFN components, etc.
[0089] The other NAP RFID tags for NAP 200 are essentially the same
as those for LCP 100 since the NAP typically includes the same OFN
components--namely, splitter module(s) 130 and patch panel(s)
140.
Drop-Cable RFID Tags
[0090] With reference to FIG. 1, OFN-RFID system 6 includes a
number of drop-cable RFID tags T.sub.220 attached to drop cables
220. In an example embodiment, drop-cable RFID tags T.sub.220 are
arranged along the length of each drop cable 220 (e.g., at fixed
intervals). Drop-cable RFID tags T.sub.220 include information such
as their respective GPS positions, the distance between successive
RFID tags, the status of the drop cable, the number of optical
fibers 112 in the drop cable, the last maintenance operation, the
drop-cable manufacturer, drop-cable manufacturer model number, the
location and type of NAP 200 and NID 300 to which the drop cable is
connected, etc. In another example embodiment, drop-cable RFID tags
T.sub.220 are located at certain important locations, such as
splice locations.
[0091] Drop-cable RFID tags T.sub.220 may also include information
relating to the installation of drop cables 220, such as the
planned installation destination, installation date, special
instructions regarding the installation (e.g., aerial or buried
cable), and the like.
NID RFID Tags
[0092] OFN-RFID system 6 also includes a number of NID RFID tags. A
main NID RFID tag T.sub.300 is attached to cabinet 120 and contains
information relating to the general properties of NID 300, such as
the cabinet location, operational status of the NID, manufacturer
information, maintenance status, the number and type of internal
OFN components, etc.
[0093] Other NID RFID tags are provided to the corresponding NID
OFN components in analogous fashion to the LCP RFID tags described
above. In an example embodiment, the other NID RFID tags are
essentially the same as those for LCP 100 in the case where the two
have the same or similar OFN components.
RFID Mapping of the OFN
[0094] As discussed above, an example embodiment of the present
invention involves using OFN RFID tags T.sub.n to create one or
more OFN-RFID maps of OFN 10 based on the RFID tag data read from
the OFN RFID tags. In one example embodiment, OFN RFID tags T.sub.n
are provided with data relating to the deployment of the
corresponding OFN components C.sub.n prior to OFN 10 being
deployed. In one example, the OFN RFID tag data is written to the
corresponding RFID tags by the OFN component manufacturer and/or by
the OFN installer (service provider). For example, for cable
assemblies that are factory terminated and customized for
installation in a particular location, the location information can
also be written in the RFID tags. RFID tags on the cable reel or
cable assembly reel can also contain information about their
installation destination, as required.
[0095] The OFN RFID tag data is then read from the OFN RFID tags
using RFID tag reader 400 prior to or during deployment. In an
example embodiment, the service provider receives materials from
the OFN component supplier and scans all tagged OFN components.
This information is then added to the inventory database unit of
database unit 410. At this point, the service provider may choose
to replace the manufacturer identification and the identification
number written to the RFID tag by the manufacturer with its own
identification number, which uniquely identifies this tag within
its entire inventory of assets. The original identification number
and the manufacturer code can be stored in the inventory database
unit so that each entity can still be traced back if necessary.
This enables the full capability and capacity of the manufacturing
database collection to be searched to determine the characteristics
and performance of the component in more detail than can be written
into the RFID tag. Such manufacturing data can be retrieved
remotely, for example, via the Internet or via a cellular phone
network. This information can be further updated at the time of
installation, to add additional details of interest to the network
operator, such as the association between ports and connectors.
[0096] The OFN RFID tag data, which is collected in memory unit 510
of database unit 410, is processed via microprocessor 500 to
provide a representation of the OFN RFID tag information from the
various OFN RFID tags, such as an OFN map.
[0097] In an example embodiment, the information stored in the OFN
RFID tags T.sub.n includes positional information (e.g., GPS
coordinates) for the OFN components C.sub.n. The positional
information is, for example, originally provided by GPS circuit 486
and written to the OFN RFID tags T.sub.n by RFID tag reader 400
during installation of the OFN component. Writing of GPS
information can be carried out, for example, by OFN service
personnel working in the field while installing, maintaining or
repairing the OFN. For example, the GPS information can also be
added to the RFID tag data by RFID tag reader 400 during the RFID
tag reading process after OFN deployment (e.g., by OFN service
personnel) and sent to the database unit along with the read RFID
tag data. This allows the map to show in detail the precise
locations of the OFN components, as well as the spatial
relationships between OFN components in the OFN.
[0098] In a similar manner, an OFN inventory map is created that
shows the location (e.g., via GPS coordinates) and the
corresponding part number for each OFN component C.sub.n in OFN 10.
In an example embodiment, the OFN inventory map includes
information about not only installed OFN components, but spare OFN
components as well, such as availability, location, etc.
[0099] In another example embodiment, an OFN maintenance map of OFN
10 is created by writing to one or more of the OFN RFID tags
T.sub.n maintenance information for the corresponding OFN
components C.sub.n. The maintenance map includes, for example,
maintenance that needs to be performed and/or maintenance that has
already been performed. By updating OFN RFID tags T.sub.n using one
or more RFID tag readers 400 and transmitting the updated OFN RFID
tag information from the one or more RFID tag readers to database
unit 410, an updated maintenance map is established. Such an
updated maintenance map can be viewed on display 520 of database
unit 410 and used to plan and schedule OFN maintenance.
[0100] In an example embodiment, both inventory and maintenance
maps are used in combination when performing OFN maintenance, since
inventory issues often arise in connection with performing OFN
maintenance. FIG. 10 shows an example of an interactive OFN-RFID
map 700 as shown on display 520 of database unit 410. OFN-RFID
interactive map 700 shows a portion of OFN 10. The GUI
functionality of database unit 410 allows a cursor 710 to be moved
by a user to the various OFN components, which serve as active
icons that can be "clicked on" to reveal the RFID tag information
corresponding to the particular OFN component.
[0101] FIG. 11 illustrates an example embodiment of the present
invention wherein an OFN-RFID interactive map 700 is overlaid or
shown along with a standard geographical map 800 (e.g., a GPS-based
map). The spatial layout of at least a portion of OFN 6 and the
location of the various OFN-RFIG tags T.sub.n is viewable in the
context of the local geography, which includes roads, building,
geographic features, etc. This allows for the OFN components to be
positioned on the map so that the field service personnel can
easily locate the components. It is worth emphasizing here that
locating OFN components in the field is a time-consuming job. Even
after a particular component is found, one may not be sure it is
the correct one. The RFID tag for the particular OFN component
provides the field operator with positive confirmation that they
have indeed found the correct component.
[0102] FIG. 12 is an example schematic diagram of a table 720
(similar to Tables 1 and 2, set forth above) as displayed on
display 520 when cursor 710 is used to click on a RFID tag
T.sub.100 icon in OFN-RFID map 700 of FIG. 10. Table 720 includes
the RFID tag data of clicked-on RFID tag T.sub.110. The example
RFID tag data includes the RFID tag ID serial number, the GPS
location, the distance to the nearest LCP 100, the distance to the
nearest NAP 200, the type of cable, the cable part number, the date
of installation, and who installed the cable. Table 720 also
includes one or more active icons, such as a maintenance log icon
730 that, when clicked on, displays additional RFID tag data
regarding the maintenance performed.
[0103] FIG. 13 is an schematic diagram of an example maintenance
log 740 that is displayed on display 520 when maintenance log icon
720 of FIG. 12 is clicked. Maintenance log 740 shows example
maintenance RFID tag data, such as the RFID tag ID serial number,
the GPS location of the RFID tag, the date a maintenance problem
was reported, the nature of the problem identified, what repair was
performed and when, when the system was placed back in operation,
who effected the repair, and what parts were used to make the
repair.
[0104] FIG. 14 shows the interactive OFN-RFID map 700 of FIG. 10,
but with cursor 710 moved to the LCP 100 active icon. FIG. 15
illustrates a second interactive map 750 (adapted from FIG. 3) of
LCP 100 that is displayed on display 520 when the LCP 100 icon of
FIG. 14 is clicked on. Interactive map 750 shows the different OFN
components of LCP 100 as described above in connection with FIG.
3.
[0105] Each of the RFID tags T.sub.n in interactive map 750 are
active icons that can be clicked on to display the corresponding
RFID tag data. For example, clicking on RFID tag T.sub.130 displays
Table 1 as shown and discussed above in connection with splitter
module 130. Likewise, clicking on RFID tag T.sub.140 displays Table
2 as shown and discussed above in connection with patch panel 140.
Interactive map 750 also includes a general LCP RFID tag T.sub.120
icon that can be clicked on to display general RFID tag data
generally concerning the corresponding LCP 100.
[0106] As discussed above, in an example embodiment, database unit
410 is portable, allowing it to be taken into the field by those
deploying or maintaining OFN 10. This provides for real-time
processing of OFN deployment and maintenance RFID tag data during
the deployment or maintenance activity.
[0107] The automated tracking of OFN components afforded by the
present invention reduces the risk of misidentification and errors
that often accompany manual updates of an OFN component inventory
database. The present invention also provides for faster and more
accurate installation, provisioning operations, fault location and
maintenance of the OFN.
[0108] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made to the present invention
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus,
it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications
and variations of this invention provided they come within the
scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *