Bendable Antenna Positioning for Reliable Low-Power Wireless Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Challenges exist in implementing wireless communication between end nodes and network devices due to distance, physical obstacles, and electromagnetic interference, especially when end nodes rely on limited battery power and are not connected to an external power source.
Innovation Solution
A wireless network device with a bendable element that provides adjustable positioning and power support, allowing optimal antenna placement for improved RF signal reception and transmission, and uses low-power protocols like Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi HaLow, NB-IoT, DASH7, Sigfox, or LoRa for communication with end nodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication is used between end nodes and network devices, then data exchange capability is improved, but communication reliability deteriorates due to distance, physical obstacles, and electromagnetic interference
Solution Approach 1:
The network device incorporates a bendable element that allows dynamic adjustment of the antenna position and orientation. This enables the system to adapt to different installation environments and optimize wireless signal transmission by changing the physical configuration of the device, thereby improving communication reliability without sacrificing data exchange capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the network device by introducing a bendable element that can alter the antenna's position and orientation. This parameter adjustment allows optimization of RF signal reception and transmission, directly addressing the reliability issues caused by distance and interference while maintaining wireless communication functionality
2Ease of operation
If end nodes rely on battery power without external power connection, then installation flexibility is improved, but operational duration deteriorates due to limited battery capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The bendable element serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the network device, enables adjustable positioning for optimal antenna orientation, and can be connected to external power sources when available. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain installation flexibility while offering the option to extend operational duration through external power connection
3Reliability
If antenna position is fixed for optimal RF signal reception, then wireless communication performance is improved, but adaptability to different installation environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The network device uses a bendable element that enables dynamic adjustment of the antenna position and orientation according to different installation environments. This dynamic capability allows the system to achieve optimal RF signal reception in various configurations, simultaneously improving wireless communication performance and adaptability to diverse installation scenarios
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and devices relating to a wireless network device configured for adjustable positioning are described herein. In an example, a network device comprises a body and a bendable element configured to carry electrical power to the body and components therein. The body houses an antenna and transceiver configured for wireless communication. The bendable element, attached to the body of the network device, is configured for adjustable positioning such that a position of the bendable element is substantially maintained when the positioning force is removed. A facing of the antenna within the body may be based on the positioning of the bendable element.