WO2002091652A2 - Intelligent concentrator - Google Patents

Intelligent concentrator Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2002091652A2
WO2002091652A2 PCT/US2002/008469 US0208469W WO02091652A2 WO 2002091652 A2 WO2002091652 A2 WO 2002091652A2 US 0208469 W US0208469 W US 0208469W WO 02091652 A2 WO02091652 A2 WO 02091652A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
network
devices
multiplexing
signals
work
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2002/008469
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2002091652A3 (en
Inventor
Alan Rubinstein
Gary Wang
Original Assignee
3Com Corporation
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by 3Com Corporation filed Critical 3Com Corporation
Priority to EP02741646A priority Critical patent/EP1380140A2/en
Priority to AU2002314722A priority patent/AU2002314722A1/en
Publication of WO2002091652A2 publication Critical patent/WO2002091652A2/en
Publication of WO2002091652A3 publication Critical patent/WO2002091652A3/en

Links

Classifications

    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04LTRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L63/00Network architectures or network communication protocols for network security
    • H04L63/04Network architectures or network communication protocols for network security for providing a confidential data exchange among entities communicating through data packet networks
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q11/00Selecting arrangements for multiplex systems
    • H04Q11/04Selecting arrangements for multiplex systems for time-division multiplexing
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13003Constructional details of switching devices
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13034A/D conversion, code compression/expansion
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/1308Power supply
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13093Personal computer, PC
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13098Mobile subscriber
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13179Fax, still picture
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13339Ciphering, encryption, security
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13349Network management
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13386Line concentrator
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04QSELECTING
    • H04Q2213/00Indexing scheme relating to selecting arrangements in general and for multiplex systems
    • H04Q2213/13389LAN, internet

Definitions

  • LAN Local Area Networking
  • LAN Local Area Networking
  • security equipment whether hardware firewall, access control or hardware encryption device, next to the computing equipment that is to be connected to a data LAN.
  • the device that is to be networked may not be able to host the required software.
  • connection jack that provides a means of reliably multiplexing
  • connection jack provides information about usage and facilitates the
  • the present invention relates to an apparatus for multiplexing
  • the apparatus has a housing which contains
  • connection devices connected to the connection devices.
  • the multiplexing enables the
  • intelligent electronic circuitry is also capable of aiding in network
  • Embodiments of the present invention disclose an apparatus
  • the apparatus comprises a
  • Figure 1 (Prior art) illustrates a conventional LAN
  • FIG. 2A illustrates a LAN, configured in accordance with one
  • Figure 2B illustrates a variation on a LAN equipped with
  • FIGURE 3 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary
  • Figure 4 illustrates a possible configuration for one
  • One surface of this embodiment is intended to be accessible by the end user and would in most instances be on an
  • implementation provides for four RJ-45 communication jacks.
  • Termination of the network wiring would provide for
  • mounting hardware such as screws or snap fit techniques that could not removed by an end user
  • VOIP Voice Over Internet Protocol
  • wireless connectivity could also be viable.
  • Standard communication media such as IR, BlueTooth, 802.11 or
  • circuitry An alternative implementation could be through self-
  • This embodiment of the present invention itself could serve as a managed access control
  • an antenna or an IR port could be
  • the antenna could be any type of built into the face of the implemented unit itself.
  • the antenna could be any type of built into the face of the implemented unit itself.
  • the antenna could be any type of built into the face of the implemented unit itself.
  • the electronics suite contained within the housing in this embodiment could provide the additional supporting circuitry to
  • the base unit would contain the capability to terminate
  • Serial buses such as USB or Ethernet could be
  • bus expansion connector as a general purpose interface as would be the case with a PC. This would be done to avoid problems that
  • the wall mounted units could provide for additional
  • Prior art Figure 1 illustrates a conventional LAN implemented
  • a work center might be
  • a workstation 107 populated with a workstation 107, a network printer 108, a laptop
  • FIG. 2A illustrates a LAN, configured with the same
  • VOIP telephone 109 is
  • Figure 2B illustrates a variation on the LAN equipped with
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a possible configuration for an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Intelligent concentrator 301 is shown in side cutaway view, with connector jacks 304 and wireless device 307 shown in one of several conceivable arrangements.
  • Wireless communication device 307 is envisioned as being enabled in a variety of protocols. Infrared and Bluetooth, or some other RF implementation, are possibilities. Multiplexing of signals to and from server 104 would very likely be under the control of in-unit electronics 302. Again, those signals and possible power for some devices, would travel over single cable 100 and connect to intelligent concentrator 301 via back-of-unit connector 306.
  • device 303 Also shown in Figure 3 is add-on device 303.
  • Device 303 might also be implemented as a security device, preventing physical attachment to the LAN cabling without a notification being sent to the server that the physical network port has been compromised.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a possible configuration for an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Intelligent concentrator 301 is shown here with four RJ-45 jacks, 304. There is space, even if an embodiment takes the form factor of a standard wall plate device, for more jacks, 308. These other jacks could enable a parallel connection to a different network or to a telephone system or to a number of other envisioned possibilities.
  • Figure 4 also shows status indicator light 305 which could be implemented in a possible embodiment.
  • Device 307 could be implemented in any number of wireless standards for non contact connection to the network. Again, infrared or an RF protocol, such as Bluetooth, are possible communication standards that come to mind.
  • the necessary transceiver electronics for device 307 are likely to be contained in the body of concentrator 301 , possibly integral with internal electronics 302.
  • the present invention relates to an apparatus for multiplexing signals in a network.
  • the apparatus has a housing which contains two or more network connection devices along with suitable intelligent electronic circuitry for controlling and multiplexing data, voice telephone signals, and power for multiple devices connected to the connection devices.
  • the multiplexing enables the various devices to communicate with the network and, in some cases, to receive power over the network connection.
  • the intelligent electronic circuitry is also capable of aiding in network security and management.
  • a primary advantage of the disclosed invention is an enormous reduction in the network cabling required for a new network installation and a near elimination of the need to install new cabling for modification of an existing network.

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus for multiplexing signals in a network. The apparatus has a housing which contains two or more network connection devices along with suitable intelligent electronic circuitry for controlling and multiplexing data, voice telephone signals, and power for multiple devices connected to the connection devices. The multiplexing enables the various devices to communicate with the network and, in some cases, to receive power over the network connection. The intelligent electronic circuitry is also capable of aiding in network security and management. A primary advantage of the disclosed invention is an enormous reduction in the network cabling required for a new network installation and a near elimination of the need to install new cabling for modification of an existing network.

Description

INTELLIGENT CONCENTRATOR
RELATED U.S. APPLICATIONS
This application claims priority to the commonly-owned co-
pending provisional patent applications: patent application U.S.
serial number 60/277,593, entitled "'INTELLIJACK' PHYSICAL
CONCEPTS," filed March 20, 2001 , and assigned to the assignee of
the present invention; patent application U.S. serial number
60/277,767, entitled "A METHOD FOR MANAGING INTELLIGENT
HARDWARE FOR ACCESS TO VOICE AND DATA NETWORKS," filed March
20, 2001 , and assigned to the assignee of the present invention;
patent application U.S. serial number 60/277,451 , entitled "A
METHOD FOR FILTERING ACCESS TO VOICE AND DATA NETWORKS BY
USE OF INTELLIGENT HARDWARE," filed March 20, 2001 , and assigned
to the assignee of the present invention; patent application U.S.
serial number 60/277,592, "'INTELLIJACK' USAGE," filed March 20,
2001 , and assigned to the assignee of the present invention; and
patent application U.S. serial number 60/285,419, "INTELLIGENT
CONCENTRATOR," filed April 20, 2001 , and assigned to the assignee
of the present invention. FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of Local Area
Networking (LAN). More specifically, the present invention relates
to a device and system for efficiently multiplexing data, voice, FAX
and power lines between the work site and the network.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Modern Local Area Networking (LAN) is generally accomplished
by extensive runs of multiple parallel cables to multiple connections and devices at each work site. This is in addition to voice telephone,
FAX, and device power cabling. When LAN infrastructures require
change, it is generally more efficient to leave existing cables in
place and simply string new cables between switch and router nodes and any new work site devices.
The current state of the art for implementing data
multiplexing and Firewall technology, on a per user basis, is
centered around providing the capability in a centralized head end
data switch or router or by distributing these functions to the end
user's location by placing a box level data concentrator switch and
security equipment, whether hardware firewall, access control or hardware encryption device, next to the computing equipment that is to be connected to a data LAN.
Current distributed solutions are ad hoc, of questionable
reliability, inefficiently managed and subject to failures caused by
accidental removal of power and wire breakage. Current solutions
require local power which adds an installation requirement and
reduces system reliability. Security could be breached through
intentional or inadvertent bypassing of any installed Firewall.
Software solutions are hard to deploy and maintain in the field and once installed are subject to attacks through common hacking
techniques. An additional weakness of software solutions is that
the device that is to be networked may not be able to host the required software.
What is needed, then, is a means of reliably multiplexing voice,
data, FAX and power lines in order to reduce the cost of installation
and infrastructure change in a LAN. Furthermore, such a means should provide information about usage and should facilitate the
management and security of the network. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Presented herein is an intelligent local area network
connection jack that provides a means of reliably multiplexing
voice, data, FAX and power lines in order to reduce the cost of
installation and infrastructure change in a LAN. Furthermore, the
connection jack provides information about usage and facilitates the
management and security of the network.
The present invention relates to an apparatus for multiplexing
signals in a network The apparatus has a housing which contains
two or more network connection devices along with suitable intelligent electronic circuitry for controlling and multiplexing
data, voice telephone signals, and power for multiple devices
connected to the connection devices. The multiplexing enables the
various devices to communicate with the network and, in some
cases, to receive power over the network connection. The
intelligent electronic circuitry is also capable of aiding in network
security and management. A primary advantage of the disclosed
invention is an enormous reduction in the network cabling required
for a new network installation and a near elimination of the need to
install new cabling for modification of an existing network. Embodiments of the present invention disclose an apparatus
for multiplexing signals in a network. The apparatus comprises a
housing, two or more network connection devices coupled with the
housing, and intelligent electronic circuitry, coupled with the
housing and communicatively coupled with network connection
devices; wherein the intelligent electronic circuitry is adapted to
control the multiplexing of signals and power in the network cabling
connected to the network connection devices.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The operation of this invention can be best visualized by
reference to the drawings.
Figure 1 (Prior art) illustrates a conventional LAN
implemented with a server and work centers.
Figure 2A illustrates a LAN, configured in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2B illustrates a variation on a LAN equipped with
embodiments of the present invention.
FIGURE 3 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary
connection of an intelligent connection apparatus in accordance with
one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 illustrates a possible configuration for one
embodiment of the present invention.
The drawings referred to in this description should be
understood as not being drawn to scale except if specifically noted. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Reference would now be made in detail to the preferred
embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in
the accompanying drawings. While the invention will be described in
conjunction with the preferred embodiments, it will be understood
that they are not intended to limit the invention to these embodiments. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover
alternatives, modifications and equivalents, which may be included
within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the
appended claims. Furthermore, in the following detailed description
of the present invention, numerous specific details are set forth in
order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention.
However, it will be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that
the present invention may be practiced without these specific
details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures,
components, and circuits have not been described in detail so as not
to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the present invention.
Some portions of the detailed descriptions that follow are presented in terms of procedures, logic blocks, processing, and other
symbolic representations of operations on signals within an
electronic circuit. These descriptions and representations are the means used by those skilled in the electronic arts to most
effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in
the art. A procedure, logic block, process, etc., is here, and
generally, conceived to be a self-consistent sequence of steps or
instructions leading to a desired result. The steps are those
requiring physical manipulations of physical quantities. Usually,
though not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical
or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined,
compared, and otherwise manipulated in an electronic system.
There are many conceivable embodiments of the present invention. However, the concepts underlying the present invention
may be best understood by the discussion of only a few
embodiments. This discussion in no way limits the application of
the concepts nor determines the limit to embodiments possible.
This embodiment of the present invention implements
intelligent hardware that is easy to install and reliably provides an
attachment point for access to Voice & Data Networks. The
embodiment is implemented through miniaturized hardware that
could be installed inside a wall or in an internal space provided for
in an office cubicle. One surface of this embodiment is intended to be accessible by the end user and would in most instances be on an
external surface of a workspace.
In one embodiment, several standard communications jacks,
such as RJ45, as well as status indicator lights, are mounted on the
external, user accessible, surface of the embodiment. One intended
implementation provides for four RJ-45 communication jacks.
However, alternative implementations could support a greater or
lesser number.
Connections to the central data network (LAN) or voice
telephone network (or perhaps dedicated FAX lines) in the present
embodiment would be terminated at the connection apparatus. These
connections would be established by an installer and would not be
intended to be accessible by the end user. In most instances, the
wiring between the unit and the communications infrastructure
would terminate inside the wall or possibly office cubicle fixture.
Termination of the network wiring (voice or data) would provide for
both a reliable electrical and mechanical connection for industry
standard communications cabling such as CAT3, CAT5 or CAT5E or
similar cabling. A variation of the implementation could also
similarly accommodate fiber-optic cabling. It is envisioned that the
integrity of the installation may utilize mounting hardware such as screws or snap fit techniques that could not removed by an end user
without specialized tools.
In addition to terminating data connections, this embodiment
of the present invention could support digital telephone connections,
such as those entailed by VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol)
technology. In the intended implementation, an RJ-45 connector or
other modular connector could be configured to provide either a LAN
data connection or a digital telephone connection. The end user
would be able to insert a data cable or a telephone into the jack and
either device would be supported. The end user would not have to
actively configure or program this embodiment to enable either
mode of operation.
Support for a separate direct termination of a cable to a
separate sub-net could also be provided. The ability to directly
terminate a line to another data or voice line would provide for the
ability to accommodate growth for new data and voice technologies
that may not be compatible with the capabilities of this embodiment
of the present invention. Such flexibility may be desirable to
support new network topologies as well. In addition to wired connections to and from this embodiment
and the client devices, wireless connectivity could also be viable.
Standard communication media such as IR, BlueTooth, 802.11 or
other means could be utilized to communicate with the device.
Power for this embodiment as well as devices connected to it
could be provided from a central source over the network cabling.
This embodiment would also be able to forward power to data
devices that are connected to the communications jacks that are on the user accessible surface. The power that is provided could be
connected in a manner that would isolate the effect of electrical
faults due to component failures or shorts in the connected device or
the wires to it. Such isolation could prevent a failure that is
external to this embodiment from damaging it and would isolate the
failure in a way that would allow this embodiment itself and
devices that are connected to the unit to remain operational.
Recovery of the effected port would be automatic and could occur as
soon as the failed device or wire is removed. This embodiment
would implement this feature with current limiting fold back
circuitry. An alternative implementation could be through self-
healing "Poly Switch" fuses but current limiting is the preferred implementation since it would allow the embedded intelligence to
sense the condition and report it to a central management console.
The benefits that accrue from the physical mounting of the
device in the manner already described would add significantly to
the functionality, reliability and the range of functions that could be
performed by this embodiment. Installations that do not provide for
the termination of the wiring to the network internal to a protected surface such as a wall or a cubicle are inherently unreliable and are
subject to a degrading of connections from mechanical stress,
abrasion and related mechanisms. The placement of attachment
points in a protected environment would eliminate problems from
accidental stresses that could occur. Mechanical stress could occur
if a user were to snare a device cable and inadvertently pulled on the
embodiment, either directly or through the attached cable. The
mounting hardware would isolate the forces to which the wiring is
subjected.
Another benefit of the physical attributes of this embodiment
that has been described is that the end user does not have direct
access to the network infrastructure. This embodiment of the present invention itself could serve as a managed access control
point. If this embodiment was established in another manner such as a stand alone box, the end user might be able to circumvent the
functions performed by this embodiment and could gain direct,
unmanaged, access to the network. It is apparent that concepts
presented in this embodiment of the present invention provide an
added degree of security by presenting a controlled point of access.
For wireless connectivity, an antenna or an IR port could be
built into the face of the implemented unit itself. The antenna could
also be constructed to allow it to be implemented on or above the
surface. The electronics suite contained within the housing in this embodiment could provide the additional supporting circuitry to
implement a wireless connection.
Another significant advantage offered by this embodiment is
the provision of a degree of directionality that could be optimized to
limit the number of devices, both intended and unintended, with
which any unit would be able to communicate. By employing
directionality and shielding, the occupant of a workspace would be
able to reliably communicate with the unit while another person in
an adjacent space using similar equipment would be less likely to
interfere with or even gain access to the first user's
communication. It is envisioned that the unit could be produced as separate
elements. The base unit would contain the capability to terminate
the cabling while a separate unit containing the intelligent
electronics could be added to the base unit at a later time. The
functional split of the unit in this manner would allow for wide
deployment of network wiring infrastructure in a cost effective
manner since the cost of the intelligence would not be borne for
work areas that might not currently be occupied. Other benefits that
derive from this type of functional partitioning is in the area of
field service and upgrades. A unit that was suspected to have failed
could quickly be replaced and retested. Also, newer units with added
capabilities could be added where needed and older modules could
still be used in areas where the added capabilities were not needed.
It is also envisioned that a modular expansion capability could
be added onto the base unit to enable the functions of the deployed
units to be readily adopted to new and varying needs. The expansion
module would mate onto the faceplate and would obtain bus signal
and power from it. Serial buses such as USB or Ethernet could be
suitable for this purpose. The implementation of a modular add-on
could be implemented in a fashion so the end user would not view
the bus expansion connector as a general purpose interface as would be the case with a PC. This would be done to avoid problems that
could arise if end users inserted cables directly into industry
standard expansion connectors, expecting to enable the functions provided by a peripheral device. This limiting of supported
capabilities is anticipated since the on-board intelligence could not
be assumed to have the capability to detect the characteristics of
the inserted device. There also would not necessarily be an easy
means to add the required software elements nor a user interface to
support the level of communications with an end user that some
peripheral require.
It is also envisioned that some implementations of this
embodiment of the present invention might be as plug-in add-ons
that could securely mount over existing data communications jacks.
An alternative mounting technique for this embodiment would be to
allow the unit to mount over and plug into the existing
communication jacks.
The wall mounted units could provide for additional
capabilities such as data concentration, security, VOIP support, etc.
However, to achieve the real benefits of the added reliability and security similar to what was described for in wall mounting the
attachment needs to be implemented in a manner that enables for a quick and easy installation while providing for a capture mechanism
that is not releasable by the end user.
A further understanding of the concepts presented in this
discussion of this embodiment of the present invention may be had
by reference to the attached Figures.
Prior art Figure 1 illustrates a conventional LAN implemented
with a server and three work centers. A work center might be
populated with a workstation 107, a network printer 108, a laptop
101 or other devices and combinations of devices that require direct
communication with the server in order to function properly.
Additionally, a voice telephone, 109, using Voice Over Internet
Protocol (VOIP) technology might be in the modern workplace. Each
of these devices requires a cable connection to the server or to its
peripheral switching mechanisms. As discussed earlier, each of
these connections currently requires a separate cable run which can
be very expensive and can compromise system integrity and security.
Figure 2A illustrates a LAN, configured with the same
equipment as in Figure 1, where the work area equipment has been
connected to the network via embodiments of the present invention,
which can be called smart network portals or intelligent concentrators, 200. All of the same functions and devices of the
previous work centers are represented but, using intelligent
concentrators, a single cable is all that is required to connect the
work area equipment suite with the server. VOIP telephone 109 is
implemented as well in the equipment array.
Also illustrated in Figure 2A is one implementation of device
power over the network connection. This could be implemented for
devices whose power requirements were low enough to make such a
multiplexed power supply system cost effective. A high power
requirement could drive the cable sizes too large to make any cost
savings be attainable.
Figure 2B illustrates a variation on the LAN equipped with
intelligent concentrators. Here, a further reduction in cabling cost
is gained by the use of a "daisy-chained" arrangement of intelligent
concentrators. A daisy-chain would result in only one cable being
connected directly to the server, or to its peripheral switching
center, to connect a plurality of work centers.
Figure 3 illustrates a possible configuration for an embodiment of the present invention. Intelligent concentrator 301 is shown in side cutaway view, with connector jacks 304 and wireless device 307 shown in one of several conceivable arrangements. Wireless communication device 307 is envisioned as being enabled in a variety of protocols. Infrared and Bluetooth, or some other RF implementation, are possibilities. Multiplexing of signals to and from server 104 would very likely be under the control of in-unit electronics 302. Again, those signals and possible power for some devices, would travel over single cable 100 and connect to intelligent concentrator 301 via back-of-unit connector 306.
Also shown in Figure 3 is add-on device 303. A range of possibilities exists for the functions of device 303. It could be implemented as an intelligent remote testing device, allowing the network infrastructure and cabling to be tested and evaluated from a central location, without any action being required at the work site. Device 303 might also be implemented as a security device, preventing physical attachment to the LAN cabling without a notification being sent to the server that the physical network port has been compromised.
Figure 4 illustrates a possible configuration for an embodiment of the present invention. Intelligent concentrator 301 is shown here with four RJ-45 jacks, 304. There is space, even if an embodiment takes the form factor of a standard wall plate device, for more jacks, 308. These other jacks could enable a parallel connection to a different network or to a telephone system or to a number of other envisioned possibilities. Figure 4 also shows status indicator light 305 which could be implemented in a possible embodiment.
Also shown in Figure 4 is wireless communication device 307. Device 307 could be implemented in any number of wireless standards for non contact connection to the network. Again, infrared or an RF protocol, such as Bluetooth, are possible communication standards that come to mind. The necessary transceiver electronics for device 307 are likely to be contained in the body of concentrator 301 , possibly integral with internal electronics 302.
As a summary; this description has disclosed the present invention relates to an apparatus for multiplexing signals in a network. The apparatus has a housing which contains two or more network connection devices along with suitable intelligent electronic circuitry for controlling and multiplexing data, voice telephone signals, and power for multiple devices connected to the connection devices. The multiplexing enables the various devices to communicate with the network and, in some cases, to receive power over the network connection. The intelligent electronic circuitry is also capable of aiding in network security and management. A primary advantage of the disclosed invention is an enormous reduction in the network cabling required for a new network installation and a near elimination of the need to install new cabling for modification of an existing network.
The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the Claims appended hereto and their equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMSWe claim:
1. An apparatus for multiplexing signals at a work center in a
network, comprising:
a work center mountable housing;
two or more network connection devices coupled with
said work center mountable housing; and,
electronic circuitry, coupled with said work center
mountable housing and communicatively coupled with said
network connection devices; wherein: said electronic circuitry is enabled to control the multiplexing of
said signals in network cabling connected to said network
connection devices, such that multiplexing of signals emanating
from said work center and demultiplexing of network signals
intended for said work center are accomplished locally at said work center.
2. An apparatus as described in Claim 1 wherein said network
connection devices are capable of connecting data lines.
3. An apparatus as described in Claim 1 wherein said network
connection devices are capable of connecting voice telephone lines.
4. An apparatus as described in Claim 1 wherein said network
connection devices are capable of connecting dedicated FAX lines.
5. An apparatus as described in Claim 1 wherein said network
connection devices are capable of connecting to and delivering
device power.
6. An apparatus as described in Claim 1 wherein said electronic
circuitry is capable of communicating system information to said
network.
7. An apparatus as described in Claim 1 wherein said electronic
circuitry is further enabled to assist maintenance of network
security.
8. A method for connecting devices to a network at a work
center, comprising the steps of:
a) providing a device connector at said work center capable
of connecting network devices to a network;
b) connecting two or more network devices to said device
connector; and,
c) multiplexing signals between said network and said
network devices.
9. The method described in Claim 8, wherein said step of
providing a device connector is accomplished with a modular cable
connector.
10. The method described in Claim 8, wherein said step of
multiplexing signals is capable of multiplexing network data
signals.
11. The method described in Claim 8, wherein said step of
multiplexing signals is capable of multiplexing voice telephone
signals.
12. The method described in Claim 8, wherein said step of multiplexing signals is accomplished at said work center.
13. The method described in Claim 8, wherein said network
connection devices are capable of connecting dedicated FAX lines.
14. The method described in Claim 8, wherein said network
connection devices are capable of connecting to and delivering
device power.
15. The method described in Claim 8, wherein said electronic
circuitry is capable of communicating system information to said
network.
16. A system for connecting a network, comprising:
a network comprising one or more servers and one or
more work centers; cabling communicatively connecting said work centers
and said servers in said network; and,
one or more connecting devices enabled to intelligently
multiplex communication between a plurality of devices in
said work centers and said network.
17. The system described in Claim 16, wherein said work centers
comprise desktop computers.
18. The system described in Claim 16, wherein said work centers
comprise printers.
19. The system described in Claim 16, wherein said work centers
comprise VOIP enabled telephones.
20. The system described in Claim 16, wherein said connecting
devices are enabled to connect to other connecting devices in a
daisy-chain fashion.
21. The system described in Claim 16, wherein said connecting
devices comprise circuitry enabled to assist in maintaining the
security of said network.
22. The system described in Claim 16, wherein said connecting devices comprise circuitry enabled to assist in managing the
infrastructure of said network.
PCT/US2002/008469 2001-03-20 2002-03-19 Intelligent concentrator WO2002091652A2 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP02741646A EP1380140A2 (en) 2001-03-20 2002-03-19 Intelligent concentrator
AU2002314722A AU2002314722A1 (en) 2001-03-20 2002-03-19 Intelligent concentrator

Applications Claiming Priority (12)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US27745101P 2001-03-20 2001-03-20
US27776701P 2001-03-20 2001-03-20
US27759201P 2001-03-20 2001-03-20
US27759301P 2001-03-20 2001-03-20
US60/277,592 2001-03-20
US60/277,451 2001-03-20
US60/277,593 2001-03-20
US60/277,767 2001-03-20
US28541901P 2001-04-20 2001-04-20
US60/285,419 2001-04-20
US91258701A 2001-07-24 2001-07-24
US09/912,587 2001-07-24

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US10986165B2 (en) 2004-01-13 2021-04-20 May Patents Ltd. Information device
US8611528B2 (en) 2004-02-16 2013-12-17 Mosaid Technologies Incorporated Outlet add-on module
US7881462B2 (en) 2004-02-16 2011-02-01 Mosaid Technologies Incorporated Outlet add-on module
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US7873058B2 (en) 2004-11-08 2011-01-18 Mosaid Technologies Incorporated Outlet with analog signal adapter, a method for use thereof and a network using said outlet

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AU2002314722A1 (en) 2002-11-18

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