Broadband Cable Network Common Bit-Loading Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing broadband cable networks are not configured to facilitate easy networking between customer premise equipment (CPEs) within buildings, due to high isolation between nodes caused by signal splitters, which hinders two-way communication and network connectivity among multiple CPEs.
Innovation Solution
A broadband cable network that determines a common bit-loading modulation scheme for communication between nodes by transmitting a probe signal and receiving response signals from each node, allowing for the determination of a common bit-loading scheme that optimizes bit distribution across channels for improved throughput.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If signal splitters are used to distribute downstream signals from POE to various terminals, then signal distribution to multiple devices is improved, but isolation between nodes increases which hinders two-way communication and network connectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces network nodes as intermediary devices between CPEs and the POE. These nodes actively manage signal distribution while providing isolation mechanisms that enable two-way communication. The nodes serve as mediators that coordinate between different CPEs, allowing them to communicate over the shared medium without direct interference, thus resolving the contradiction between signal distribution and node isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic bit-loading and power-loading techniques that adjust modulation parameters based on channel conditions. By changing these parameters dynamically, the system optimizes communication quality between nodes while maintaining the benefits of signal distribution. This parameter adaptation allows the system to overcome isolation effects and enable reliable two-way communication.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple CPEs share the broadband cable network, then network connectivity and two-way communication are enabled, but interference between devices increases which degrades signal quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements power-loading where nodes transmit at different power levels depending on their specific requirements and channel conditions. This partial action approach allows multiple CPEs to share the network simultaneously while controlling interference levels. By adjusting power levels partially rather than uniformly, the system enables network connectivity while minimizing degradation from inter-device interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts bit-loading parameters for different carriers based on the specific channel conditions and interference environment. This parameter change strategy allows optimal data transmission rates for each node while managing interference. By adapting modulation parameters to local conditions, the system achieves network connectivity without excessive interference degradation.
3Productivity
If bit-loading optimization is implemented for each channel, then throughput is improved, but system complexity increases due to the need for probe signals and coordination among nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a preliminary action phase where nodes exchange probe signals to characterize their channels before actual data transmission begins. This preliminary measurement and coordination enables subsequent bit-loading optimization without adding complexity to the ongoing data communication. The system performs the complex analysis once during setup, then uses the results for efficient continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where nodes report their channel conditions and power requirements back to the network controller. This feedback enables centralized or distributed optimization of bit-loading parameters. By using feedback, the system achieves high throughput through optimized bit distribution while managing complexity through automated control based on reported conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A broadband cable network (“BCN”) for determining a common bit-loading modulation scheme for communicating between a plurality of nodes in the BCN is disclosed. The BCN may include a transmitting node within the plurality of nodes where the transmitting node is capable of sending a probe signal to the plurality of nodes, and at least one receiving node within the plurality of nodes in signal communication with the transmitting node. The at least one receiving node is capable of transmitting a first response signal in response to receiving the probe signal. The first response signal includes a first bit-loading modulation scheme determined by the at least one receiving node. The transmitting node is further capable of determining the common bit-loading modulation scheme from the first response signal.