Double Alternating Frequency Algorithm for Broadband Power Line Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing access broadband over power lines (BPL) technologies face challenges of limited reach and low bandwidth, failing to match the coverage and speed of other broadband services like ADSL, Wi-Fi, and 3G mobile broadband, making them non-viable for widespread deployment.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a Double Alternating Frequency Algorithm (DAFA) that uses a high frequency carrier wave (>1 GHz) above environmental noise, stacking multiple channels on the carrier wave, and changing the frequency at each transformer to enable efficient downstream and upstream data propagation, effectively bypassing transformers and increasing bandwidth to support broadband Internet access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional BPL technologies use low frequency carrier waves (1.6 MHz to 80 MHz), then the system can operate with existing equipment, but the bandwidth and reach are limited and cannot match other broadband services
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of carrier wave frequency from the traditional 1.6-80 MHz range to a high frequency range above 1 GHz. This parameter change enables significantly higher bandwidth and data rates while the alternating frequency algorithm ensures reliable transmission by adapting to different channel conditions at each transformer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic alternating frequency algorithm that changes the carrier frequency at each transformer in the distribution network. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to varying channel characteristics and overcome the limitations of static frequency allocation, enabling both high bandwidth and reliable deployment across rural areas.
2Length of moving object
If data signals are transmitted through pole-mounted transformers using traditional methods, then the system structure is simple, but the signals cannot pass through the transformers effectively, limiting reach
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary alternating frequency algorithm that enables data signals to effectively pass through pole-mounted transformers. By alternating the carrier frequency at each transformer, the system creates a pathway for signals to traverse the transformer network, significantly extending reach without requiring complex hardware modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the transmission path into multiple hops through successive transformers, with each transformer processing the signal at a different frequency. This segmentation allows the overall system to achieve long reach by breaking down the transformation barrier into manageable frequency conversion steps across the distribution network.
3Ease of manufacture
If BPL systems use existing power distribution infrastructure, then deployment cost is reduced, but the technology fails to provide sufficient bandwidth and speed to compete with other broadband services
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the frequency parameter to above 1 GHz, which enables high bandwidth transmission over the existing power distribution infrastructure. This parameter change allows the system to achieve competitive speeds and bandwidth while continuing to leverage the widely deployed power grid, maintaining ease of manufacture and deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic alternating frequency algorithm enables the system to efficiently utilize the existing power distribution infrastructure while achieving high bandwidth performance. By adaptively changing frequencies at each transformer, the system maximizes the capacity of the existing infrastructure without requiring costly upgrades, thus maintaining deployment simplicity while achieving high productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A double alternating frequency algorithm (DAFA) uses a high frequency carrier wave (>1 GHz) that lies above environmental noise and is capable of carrying large amounts of data, stacks a plurality of N frequency channels on the carrier wave (e.g., one channel for each transformer serviced by a substation) and changes the frequency of the carrier wave at each transformer to repeat the data for downstream and upstream propagation for providing broadband Internet over power lines. This approach will fulfill the promise of broadband Internet to the vast rural areas of the United States that do not have access to broadband Internet. Furthermore, this approach will provide another revenue source for utility companies to leverage the existing power distribution system.