5G Over Coax Node for Symmetric High-Rate HFC Links

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hybrid fiber coax (HFC) networks face limitations in data rates and bandwidth due to the use of coaxial cable amplifiers, which introduce asymmetry and hard-wired bandwidth allocation, making it costly and difficult to upgrade to higher data rates and symmetric operation, especially in multi-dwelling units (MDUs).

Innovation Solution

A node apparatus with a Distributed Unit (DU) and Radio Unit (RU) that processes spatial streams and combines them for transmission over coaxial cables, utilizing expanded frequency bands and 802.11ax technology to enable symmetric and flexible bandwidth allocation, reducing the need for extensive infrastructure upgrades.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If traditional HFC network with coaxial cable amplifiers is used, then existing infrastructure can be utilized, but data rates and bandwidth are limited and asymmetric

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata rateVSAvoidnetwork upgrade complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic bandwidth allocation where the available bandwidth can be flexibly adjusted based on demand. The system transitions from hard-wired asymmetric allocation to dynamic symmetric allocation, allowing the network to adapt bandwidth distribution in real-time according to user needs and service requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operational parameters of the coaxial cable infrastructure by utilizing expanded frequency bands (e.g., 1.6 GHz to 4 GHz) instead of traditional bands. This parameter change enables higher data rates while maintaining the existing cable infrastructure, avoiding the need for complete system replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of manufacture

If coaxial cable infrastructure is used for high data rates, then capital expenditure can be reduced, but symmetric operation and flexible bandwidth allocation are difficult to achieve

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecapital expenditureVSAvoidbandwidth allocation flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamic bandwidth allocation where the available bandwidth can be flexibly adjusted based on demand. The system transitions from hard-wired asymmetric allocation to dynamic symmetric allocation, allowing the network to adapt bandwidth distribution in real-time according to user needs and service requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the existing coaxial cable infrastructure universal by enabling it to support multiple services and functions simultaneously - including high-speed data communication, symmetric bidirectional transmission, and various types of content delivery. This multi-functionality is achieved through expanded frequency band utilization and advanced modulation techniques.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Area of stationary object

If amplifier stages are added to extend network reach, then coverage area increases, but data rates and bandwidth are further limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork coverage areaVSAvoiddata rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the operational parameters of the coaxial cable infrastructure by utilizing expanded frequency bands (e.g., 1.6 GHz to 4 GHz) instead of traditional bands. This parameter change enables higher data rates while maintaining the existing cable infrastructure, avoiding the need for complete system replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20260066925A15g over coaxial node systems and methods
Publication Date: 2026.03.05 CHARTER COMM OPERATING LLC
  • US20260066925A1 patent drawing
  • US20260066925A1 patent drawing
  • US20260066925A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A node apparatus and methods involving the same. The node including a Distributed Unit (DU); and a Radio Unit (RU) in communication with the DU, wherein the RU comprises: a first port for interfacing with a signal transmitted from the DU, wherein the signal transmitted from the DU comprises at least an 8 layer spatial stream; a Digital Front End (DFE) configured to process the spatial stream by combining a first four streams of the spatial stream in a first Digital to Analog (DAC) converter to form a first signal, and by combining a second four streams of the spatial stream in a second DAC, to form a second signal; and a second port in communication with a coaxial cable, wherein the coaxial cable is configured to transmit a combined signal.