Broadband Wireless Ad-Hoc Modem Testbed Using Bus-Mesh Topology
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current test setups for broadband wireless modems and networks lack the ability to simulate path loss with fading channels, fail to rapidly switch path loss variations, and are not automatable for repeatability and accuracy, leading to inconsistent results and crosstalk issues.
Innovation Solution
A broadband wireless testbed utilizing a bus-mesh network topology with digital attenuators controlled by algorithms to simulate path loss and fading environments, featuring highly shielded coaxial cables to reduce crosstalk, and allowing for rapid configuration and expansion of node connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If open air test setup is used, then construction simplicity is improved, but test result consistency deteriorates due to intermittent interference and inability to control signal levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an RF cable system as an intermediary medium to connect transmitters and receivers. This mediator allows signal transmission in a controlled environment while eliminating the harmful effects of open air interference, enabling consistent and repeatable test results.
2Ease of operation
If RF cable system with combiners and attenuators is used, then signal power level control and topology flexibility are improved, but path loss simulation capability with fading channels deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static RF attenuators with dynamic digital attenuators that can be programmatically controlled. This allows the system to dynamically simulate varying path loss conditions and fading channels, enabling versatile adaptation to different wireless propagation scenarios while maintaining ease of operation through software control.
3Device complexity
If conventional test setup is used, then device complexity is reduced, but automation capability for repeatability and accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical configuration with automated digital control systems. Digital attenuators and programmable switches eliminate the need for manual cable reconfiguration and component adjustment, enabling full automation of test sequences while improving repeatability and accuracy through software-controlled precision.
4Adaptability or versatility
If radio channels are used for test setup, then wireless testing functionality is improved, but resource availability deteriorates due to channel scarcity and regulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a wired copy of the wireless radio frequency environment using RF cables and digital signal processing. This virtualized testbed replicates wireless propagation characteristics without requiring actual radio spectrum resources, enabling unlimited parallel testing capacity while maintaining authentic wireless testing functionality.
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 testbed provides rapid switchability, repeatability, and accuracy in testing broadband wireless modems and networks, enabling simulation of path loss with fading channels and avoiding crosstalk, thus ensuring consistent and reliable testing results.
Implementation Method 1
Highly shielded coaxial cables interconnect the nodes, and signals may be strongly attenuated prior to entering the mesh to reduce crosstalk
Implementation Method 2
The variable legs of the resultant network are controlled using digital attenuators running files and/or algorithms that implement (i.e., simulate) the desired path loss and fading environments
Data Source
AI summary
A testbed is provided for testing broadband wireless test units. The testbed includes an enclosure and a plurality of I/O connectors accessible externally of the enclosure. Each of the I/O connectors is for being electrically coupled to a respective test unit. A series of connections within the enclosure serve to interconnect the plurality of I/O connectors as respective nodes in a bus-mesh network topology.