Embedded Diplexer for Selective Signal Filtering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing diplexers for coexisting communication systems on coaxial cables are complex and expensive to manufacture, making them unsuitable for simple and inexpensive solutions that can efficiently filter out frequencies outside the operating range of television tuners in various signal environments.

Innovation Solution

A selective filtering method using an embedded diplexer with a filter control module that switches between different frequency ranges based on information from a tuner, allowing devices to operate in environments with both MoCA and cable television signals, ensuring compatibility and preventing interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a diplexer is used to filter frequencies for coexisting communication systems on coaxial cables, then signal filtering effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal filtering effectivenessVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic filtering approach where the diplexer selectively switches between different filter configurations based on the operating mode (MoCA or cable TV). The filter control module receives mode information and dynamically adjusts the filter response, allowing a single device to provide effective filtering for multiple coexisting systems without requiring separate dedicated filters for each mode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The diplexer is designed as a universal filtering device that handles both MoCA network signals and cable TV broadcast signals through a single coaxial interface. By integrating multiple filtering capabilities into one device and using a single F-connector, the patent eliminates the need for separate filtering components for different communication systems, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining filtering effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a diplexer is used to filter frequencies for coexisting communication systems on coaxial cables, then signal filtering effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal filtering effectivenessVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The diplexer is designed as a universal filtering device that handles both MoCA network signals and cable TV broadcast signals through a single coaxial interface. By integrating multiple filtering capabilities into one device and using a single F-connector, the patent eliminates the need for separate filtering components for different communication systems, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining filtering effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the filtering functions for MoCA and cable TV systems into a single diplexer unit. Instead of requiring separate filters and multiple connectors for different signal types, the invention combines these functions into one integrated component, simplifying the bill of materials and reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining effective signal separation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If frequency ranges are selectively switched based on tuner information, then adaptability to different signal environments is improved, but control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to signal environmentsVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The diplexer implements a feedback-based control mechanism where the filter control module receives operational mode information from the tuner (indicating whether cable TV or MoCA signals are present) and automatically adjusts the filter configuration accordingly. This closed-loop approach allows the system to adapt to different signal environments without requiring complex manual configuration or multiple dedicated hardware paths.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

The solution enables consumer electronic devices to function seamlessly in multiple signal environments by selectively attenuating frequencies, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining effective signal filtering.

Implementation Method 1

the filter switchably attenuating network and broadcast signals above a first frequency or network and broadcast signals above a second frequency greater than the first frequency

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFrequency selective attenuation: Filter (electronic)

Data Source

PatentUS8677441B2Scanning algorithm for embedded network devices
Publication Date: 2014.03.18 ENTROPIC COMM INC
  • US8677441B2 patent drawing
  • US8677441B2 patent drawing
  • US8677441B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method is provided for selective filtering of transmissions based on information received from a tuner. An embedded diplexer in a consumer electronic device allows the device to be used in a variety of different signal environments. For example, a television with an embedded switching filter coupled to the television tuner is operable in environments where television signals are transmitted on frequencies up to 1 GHz and in environments where MoCA signals are transmitted on 1 GHz frequencies.