DAS Cable Sensor Integration for Building Data Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for collecting data from and controlling devices in buildings using Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) require additional cabling and infrastructure, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
Integration of remote sensors and control units within the DAS infrastructure, utilizing the existing cabling to transmit data and control signals without additional infrastructure, through the use of a Connection to DAS (CtD) module and Remote Sensor & Control (RSC) module, allowing data collection and device control via the DAS cable without interfering with existing RF signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional cabling and infrastructure are installed to collect data from and control devices in buildings, then data collection and device control capabilities are improved, but system complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling the DAS cable to serve dual purposes: its original function for wireless communication and a new function for sensor data collection and device control. The Remote Sensor & Control module integrates multiple functions (sensing, processing, control) into a single unit that communicates bidirectionally over the existing DAS infrastructure, eliminating the need for separate cabling systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional cabling and infrastructure are installed to collect data from and control devices in buildings, then data collection and device control capabilities are improved, but installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sensor data collection system with the existing DAS infrastructure. The Remote Sensor & Control module is integrated into the DAS cable system, combining previously separate functions (wireless communication and sensor networking) into a unified system. This merging eliminates redundant infrastructure and reduces installation costs by utilizing already-deployed cables and equipment.
3Ease of manufacture
If remote sensors and control units are integrated within the DAS infrastructure using existing cabling, then the need for additional cabling and infrastructure costs are reduced, but signal interference between data transmission and RF signals may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensor data and control signals from the RF communication channel by using separate logical channels or frequency bands within the DAS cable. The Remote Sensor & Control module processes sensor data independently and transmits it through dedicated communication paths that do not interfere with the RF signals used for wireless communication, thereby separating harmful interactions from the system operation.
4Device complexity
If the DAS cable is used to transmit sensor data and control signals, then additional infrastructure is eliminated, but the reliability of communication may be affected by the shared medium
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the DAS cable communication into distinct channels: one for RF wireless communication and another for sensor data/control signal transmission. The Remote Sensor & Control module implements separate processing paths that logically divide the shared physical medium into independent communication streams, ensuring that sensor data transmission does not compromise the reliability of either communication function.
Data Source
AI summary
A distributed sensor network that utilizes the cabling infrastructure installed for a Distributed Antenna System (“DAS”) to collect environmental data about a building. In this sensor network, an array of sensors are placed in line with the DAS communication cabling so that additional cabling is not required. The sensors use “out of band” frequencies or low level signaling so as to not interfere with the DAS signals to communicate the sensor data to the DAS head-unit.