Antenna Re-alignment System for Point-to-Point WiFi

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Solution Overview

Problem

Dish antennas used for long-distance point-to-point WiFi communications are prone to misalignment due to weather conditions, leading to significant signal loss and network outages, which are costly and time-consuming to correct, especially when technicians must physically climb towers to realign them.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for auto or remote re-alignment of antennas using a position controller that adjusts elevation and azimuth positions, incorporating auto-sensing algorithms, semi-automatic, and manual modes to maintain optimal alignment and signal strength, reducing the need for physical intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If dish antennas are used for long-distance point-to-point communications, then communication range is improved, but alignment sensitivity worsens

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication rangeVSAvoidalignment precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors signal strength and quality between antennas and automatically adjusts alignment parameters in real-time, creating a closed-loop feedback system that maintains optimal communication despite environmental disturbances or initial misalignment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from static fixed mounting to dynamic active alignment systems that can adjust antenna position and orientation during operation, allowing the system to adapt to changing conditions and maintain communication quality over long distances

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If dish antennas are mounted on towers to achieve long-distance communication, then communication quality is improved, but ease of repair worsens

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication qualityVSAvoidease of re-alignment

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-diagnosis and self-correction by automatically detecting misalignment conditions and adjusting antenna positioning without human intervention, eliminating the need for technicians to climb towers for routine maintenance

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment processes with automated electronic control systems that can remotely adjust antenna alignment through motorized positioning mechanisms controlled via communication links

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Stability of the object's composition

If dish antennas are secured with fixed mounts, then stability is improved, but adaptability worsens

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemount stabilityVSAvoidalignment adjustment capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs dynamically adjustable mounting mechanisms that maintain stable fixed positions during normal operation but can be actively repositioned when alignment adjustments are needed, transitioning between static and dynamic states based on operational requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS8022885B2System and method for re-aligning antennas

Publication Date: 2011.09.20 CENTURYLINK INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LLC

AI summary

A system for re-aligning an antenna communicating signals point-to-point. The system may include a first antenna, a second antenna configured to communicate a communications signal with the first antenna using point-to-point communications, and a position controller coupled to the first antenna and configured to re-align the first antenna with respect to the second antenna in response to determining a misalignment of the antenna.