Dielectric Waveguide Coupler for Power Grid Wireless Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing demand for bandwidth in wireless communication systems due to the proliferation of smartphones and portable devices poses challenges for traditional macrocell base stations, necessitating higher bandwidth capabilities and the deployment of small cells like microcells and picocells, which require enhanced network connectivity and efficient transmission methods.
Innovation Solution
A guided wave communication system utilizing a dielectric waveguide coupler that facilitates the propagation of electromagnetic waves along a wire surface, allowing for the transmission and reception of guided waves as surface waves, enabling increased network connectivity and efficient data transfer without the need for direct electrical contact with high-voltage wires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional macrocell base stations are used to provide wireless coverage, then coverage area is large, but bandwidth capability is insufficient to address increased data demand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wireless network into macrocells for broad coverage and small cells (microcells, picocells) for high-bandwidth areas. This segmentation allows the system to simultaneously provide both large coverage areas and high bandwidth capability by distributing small cells throughout the macrocell network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension to wireless network deployment by utilizing power grid infrastructure (wires and poles) as mounting structures for small cells. This transforms existing utility infrastructure into a dual-purpose system that simultaneously delivers electricity and wireless communication services, expanding network capacity without consuming additional radio spectrum resources.
2Productivity
If small cells are deployed to provide additional bandwidth, then bandwidth capability increases, but network connectivity requirements become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power distribution infrastructure with the wireless communication infrastructure by mounting small cells on existing power grid poles and attaching power cables to the same structures. This consolidation reduces the number of separate infrastructure elements needed and simplifies network deployment while providing enhanced bandwidth capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If power grid wires are used for signal transmission, then network expansion is facilitated, but interference from high voltage may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using the power grid infrastructure as a mounting structure and transmission medium for optical or wireless signals rather than directly coupling electrical signals with the high-voltage power lines. This separation allows the power grid to provide structural support and physical pathways while avoiding direct electromagnetic interference between power transmission and data transmission systems.
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 provides an efficient means to expand network connectivity, supports higher bandwidth requirements, and allows for the transmission of electromagnetic waves along power grid wires, enhancing data transfer capabilities while avoiding interference and maintaining safety from high voltages.
Implementation Method 1
a waveguide that facilitates propagation of a first electromagnetic wave at least in part on a waveguide surface
Implementation Method 2
the first electromagnetic wave couples at least in part to a wire surface of the wire and travels at least partially around the wire surface as a second electromagnetic wave
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, a device that facilitates transmitting electromagnetic waves along a surface of a transmission medium without requiring an electrical return path that facilitates delivery of electric energy to devices, and sensing a condition that is adverse to the electromagnetic waves propagating along the surface of the transmission medium. Other embodiments are disclosed.