Software-Defined Antenna Profiles for Targeted RF Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of unlicensed bands in wireless communication networks, such as those in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, is limited by strict FCC regulations, including a one-watt transmit power limitation, which results in shorter ranges, asymmetrical gain, and higher noise floors, making it challenging to define and maintain effective coverage areas.
Innovation Solution
A software-defined antenna (SDA) system that allows operators to create, install, and modify antenna profiles remotely using Antenna Management Software (AMS) running on a server, enabling configuration of signal propagation characteristics, frequency bands, and polarization, and utilizing addressable, reconfigurable antennas with multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) capabilities and beam-forming, along with magnetometers and GPS/GNSS receivers for precise orientation and coverage area definition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If unlicensed bands are used with one-watt transmit power limitation, then compliance with FCC regulations is achieved, but coverage area and signal range are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the antenna's physical and electrical parameters through software control, adjusting element positions, orientations, and impedance values to optimize gain and directivity within the one-watt power constraint, thereby extending coverage area while maintaining FCC compliance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of antenna elements in real-time based on environmental conditions and coverage requirements, allowing the antenna system to adaptively optimize its radiation pattern and effective coverage area within regulatory power limits
2Reliability
If transmit power is limited to one-watt, then FCC unlicensed band requirements are met, but signal strength and gain become asymmetrical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adjusts antenna element parameters such as length, spacing, and orientation to compensate for asymmetrical gain conditions, creating a balanced radiation pattern that maintains stable performance characteristics within the one-watt power limit
3Reliability
If unlicensed bands operate at one-watt power, then regulatory compliance is achieved, but noise floor increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes antenna parameters including element geometry, spacing, and matching networks to improve signal-to-noise ratio, thereby reducing the effective noise floor impact while operating within one-watt power constraints for FCC compliance
4Adaptability or versatility
If antenna profiles are remotely configurable, then operator flexibility and adaptability are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal software-defined antenna architecture that can perform multiple functions (configuration, optimization, monitoring, reconfiguration) through a single integrated control system, reducing overall system complexity while enhancing adaptability across different operating conditions
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The SDA system enhances the operator's ability to accurately direct RF signals, increase coverage areas, and adapt to different environments by allowing flexible configuration of antenna profiles, polarization, and frequency bands, thereby improving the efficiency and effectiveness of wireless communication networks operating in unlicensed bands.
Implementation Method 1
one or more magnetometers in an antenna device may be employed to determine an initial orientation of the antenna device with respect to Magnetic North
Implementation Method 2
one or more Global Positioning System/Global Navigation Satellite System (GPS/GNSS) Receivers which may be capable of ascertaining a geographic location of antenna device and its heading with respect to True North or Magnetic North
Implementation Method 3
an antenna device may comprise an electronic tilt angle (tilt) measurement system employing one or more accelerometers to determine and display the tilt angle (tilt) of an antenna device
Implementation Method 4
An antenna device may be an addressable, reconfigurable, segmented antenna with a plurality of separate, reflective panels (reflectors) antenna, capable of multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) and beam-forming
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an antenna device, antenna system, and methods to create, and install or modify, an antenna profile for an antenna device so as to direct remotely the propagation of radio frequency signal from the antenna device to targeted radio frequency geographic coverage areas. Ports may be selected to activate spatial segments created by the configuration of the reflectors, joined about a cylindrical core, which may be quadrants when the reflectors are configured into a cross-like shape. The system provides aid in orienting an antenna, upon installation, to a pre-designated geographic heading. Optionally, the tilt of each quadrant of an antenna device may be determined so as to ensure proper radio frequency coverage.