Dynamic RF Power Splitter for Wireless Network Sector Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current RF power splitters have static power distribution levels, making it inflexible and costly to adjust power output based on varying cell site coverage and capacity needs, leading to increased lead times and deployment costs.

Innovation Solution

A network device dynamically adjusts power distribution by instructing an RF power splitter, which uses a transformer with adjustable coil turns to redistribute power among sectors based on user demand and historical data, allowing for dynamic power ratio changes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If static power distribution levels are used in RF power splitters, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to varying cell site coverage and capacity needs deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to varying cell site needsVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Dynamics principle by transforming the static power distribution system into a dynamic one. A transformer with adjustable taps is introduced, allowing the power distribution ratios to be changed dynamically based on cell site coverage and capacity needs. The transformer enables different power output levels to be selected by connecting to different taps, making the system adaptable to varying operational requirements without requiring complete hardware replacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies the Parameter changes principle by modifying the electrical parameters of the power distribution system. By changing the number of turns in the transformer coil (different taps), the power distribution ratios are adjusted. This allows the system to change its operational parameters dynamically, enabling adaptation to different cell site needs while using the same physical hardware infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If unique power development is performed to change power distribution levels, then power distribution adaptability is improved, but deployment time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower distribution flexibilityVSAvoiddeployment lead time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Universality principle by designing a single RF power splitter device that can perform multiple power distribution functions. The transformer with multiple taps allows the same device to provide different power distribution ratios (e.g., 50/50, 70/30, 80/20) without requiring separate development or deployment of unique power distribution systems for each scenario.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies the Dynamics principle by enabling rapid switching between different power distribution configurations. The adjustable transformer taps allow operators to change power distribution levels quickly in response to varying cell site needs, eliminating the lengthy lead times associated with developing and deploying unique power distribution systems for each scenario.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If static power distribution is used, then deployment cost is reduced, but adaptability to user demand changes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresponse to user demandVSAvoiddeployment cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Dynamics principle by introducing an adjustable transformer mechanism that enables dynamic power distribution adjustments. This allows the system to adapt to changing user demands and cell site conditions without requiring expensive custom developments or multiple static systems, achieving cost-effective adaptability through a single reconfigurable device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies theParameter changes principle by enabling adjustment of power distribution parameters through transformer tap selection. This allows the system to optimize power allocation based on user demand and coverage requirements while using the same hardware infrastructure, avoiding the need for expensive custom-manufactured power distribution systems for each scenario.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables flexible and agile power distribution adjustments, reducing deployment costs and lead times by accommodating varying cell site needs, improving deployment efficiency and user coverage.

Implementation Method 1

A transformer in the RF power splitter changes a number of turns in a coil to change power output

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10111186B1Controllable transformer tap to dynamically adjust power distribution levels in wireless networks

Publication Date: 2018.10.23 T MOBILE INNOVATIONS LLC

AI summary

An apparatus and method are provided for dynamically changing power distribution levels to sectors in a cell site. A device, such as an eNodeB, radio network controller, or base station controller, provides instructions to an RF power splitter to adjust the power output in ratios, which changes the power distribution levels at the sectors. The power splitter contains a transformer and motor that can dynamically change the power output ratios based on the instructions received from the device. The resulting power outputs are distributed to the sectors.