Distributed Antenna System Wi-Fi Backhaul Multiplexing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless and mobile network operators face challenges in maximizing DAS network capacity while ensuring cost-effective deployments and high remote unit availability, particularly in managing high data-traffic growth and providing dynamic flexibility to meet changing network conditions and user demands.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a Distributed Antenna System (DAS) that utilizes a microprocessor or digital components like Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) or Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) to multiplex IP data with mobile data streams, enabling efficient routing through a network switch and integrating Wi-Fi access points for mesh network communication, allowing IP data to be used as a backhaul for Wi-Fi access points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional DAS architectures are used, then network deployment is simpler, but network capacity and dynamic flexibility are insufficient to meet high data-traffic growth and changing subscriber needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic flexibility in DAS architectures by enabling remote units to dynamically allocate resources between cellular and Wi-Fi access, allowing the system to adapt to changing network conditions and subscriber demands. The network can dynamically rearrange capacity between different access types based on real-time requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal DAS architecture where remote units can serve multiple functions - providing both cellular service and Wi-Fi access through the same infrastructure. The system universally supports multiple data streams (cellular data and IP data) over the same medium, maximizing resource utilization.
2Quantity of substance
If more radio resources are deployed to meet short-term network needs, then network capacity increases, but deployment costs increase and resource efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically allocates radio resources between cellular and Wi-Fi access based on real-time network conditions and demand patterns. This dynamic resource management ensures that capacity is available when needed while avoiding waste during low-demand periods, optimizing the balance between quantity and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The DAS system automatically manages its own capacity allocation without requiring over-provisioning. The intelligent remote units self-adjust resource distribution between different access types based on local conditions, eliminating the need for conservative over-deployment of radio resources.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate networks are used for cellular and Wi-Fi data, then each network can be optimized independently, but overall system complexity and deployment cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges cellular and Wi-Fi data networks into a unified DAS infrastructure, where both types of data traverse the same backhaul network through intelligent multiplexing at remote units. This consolidation reduces overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to serve both cellular and Wi-Fi customers.
Solution Approach 2:
The DAS remote units are designed with universal functionality to handle both cellular data streams and IP data streams simultaneously. This multi-functional approach allows a single network infrastructure to provide diverse services without requiring separate dedicated networks for each service type.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for networking Wi-Fi Access Points in a Distributed Antenna System includes a plurality of Digital Access Units (DAUs). The plurality of DAUs are coupled and operable to route signals between the plurality of DAUs. The system also includes a plurality of Digital Remote Units (DRUs) coupled to the plurality of DAUs and operable to transport signals between DRUs and DAUs and a plurality of DAU ports and DRU ports. The system further includes a Framer/Deframer, wherein the cellular payload data is separated from the IP data and a network switch. The IP data from a plurality of DAU and DRU ports are buffered and routed to a plurality of DAU and DRU ports. Furthermore, the system includes a plurality of Wi-Fi access points coupled via a mesh network to Wi-Fi access points connected to a plurality of DRUs.