Dielectric Waveguide Coupler for Asymmetric Guided-Wave Propagation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication systems face challenges in providing increased bandwidth and network connectivity to support growing data demands, particularly in macrocell base stations and distributed antenna systems, as existing technologies fail to efficiently utilize guided-wave propagation for asymmetric modes at millimeter-wave frequencies.
Innovation Solution
A guided-wave communication system utilizing a dielectric waveguide coupler that couples electromagnetic waves to a transmission medium, such as a wire, to propagate as surface waves, enabling efficient data transmission through asymmetric modes within the millimeter-wave frequency band, even in the presence of bends and varying wire diameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If electromagnetic waves are propagated through traditional wireless infrastructure, then network coverage is provided, but bandwidth capacity is insufficient to meet growing data demands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes asymmetric guided-wave modes at millimeter-wave frequencies, representing a fundamental parameter change in the electromagnetic propagation characteristics. By operating in asymmetric modes rather than traditional symmetric modes, the system achieves higher bandwidth capacity and data transmission capacity that meets growing demand
2Length of stationary object
If guided-wave propagation is implemented on wires, then data transmission distance is increased, but signal loss increases with transmission distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs millimeter-wave frequencies and asymmetric guided-wave modes, which represent parameter changes that enable low-loss propagation over extended distances. The specific frequency and mode selection optimizes the balance between transmission distance and signal loss
3Power
If electrical contact is made with high-voltage wires for signal transmission, then power delivery is achieved, but safety risks and interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses electromagnetic fields as an intermediary to transfer energy and information without direct electrical contact. The guided-wave propagation along the wire surface enables power delivery and data transmission while maintaining electrical isolation, thereby eliminating safety risks and interference associated with direct contact
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
This solution enhances network connectivity and bandwidth by allowing guided-wave propagation along the surface of wires with low loss, supporting increased data transmission distances and capacities, while avoiding the need for electrical circuits and reducing physical contact with high-voltage wires.
Implementation Method 1
couples electromagnetic waves to a transmission medium, such as a wire, to propagate as surface waves
Implementation Method 2
A guided-wave communication system utilizing a dielectric waveguide coupler that couples electromagnetic waves to a transmission medium
Implementation Method 3
The coupling of the first electromagnetic wave to the transmission medium forms a second electromagnetic wave that is guided to propagate along the outer surface of the transmission medium via at least one guided-wave mode
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, a coupler including a receiving portion that receives a first electromagnetic wave conveying first data from a transmitting device. A guiding portion guides the first electromagnetic wave to a junction for coupling the first electromagnetic wave to a transmission medium. The first electromagnetic wave propagates via at least one first guided wave mode. The coupling of the first electromagnetic wave to the transmission medium forms a second electromagnetic wave that is guided to propagate along the outer surface of the transmission medium via at least one second guided wave mode that differs from the at least one first guided wave mode. Other embodiments are disclosed.