Software-Configurable Fixed Wireless Node for Multi-Role Network Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixed wireless networks face challenges in providing scalable and efficient video on demand (VoD) and internet services, especially in areas with limited traditional ISP infrastructure, due to limited de-license spectrum and varying connectivity needs.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional, software-configurable wireless network device with a single hardware architecture that supports multiple device roles, utilizing the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz ISM radio bands for unlicensed wireless communications, and employing a hierarchical topology with base station nodes, relay nodes, and customer premises equipment nodes to enable cascaded star network configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple device roles are supported through software configuration, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal device architecture where a single hardware platform can perform multiple device roles (router, base station, gateway, customer station) through software configuration. This multi-functionality approach allows one device to replace multiple specialized devices, improving adaptability while the standardized hardware reduces overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device role is changed by modifying software parameters and configuration settings rather than hardware architecture. The processor can be programmed with different firmware images or configuration files to switch between device roles, enabling flexible adaptation without physical changes to the device structure.
2Ease of operation
If unlicensed spectrum bands are used, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to interference
Solution Approach 1:
The device dynamically adapts to changing wireless conditions by implementing dynamic frequency selection and power control in the unlicensed bands. The system can switch between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, adjust transmission power levels, and change modulation schemes based on real-time interference conditions, maintaining reliability while operating in unlicensed spectrum.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless communication system implements feedback mechanisms where the device monitors signal quality, interference levels, and connection stability. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts configuration parameters such as transmission power, frequency selection, and error correction levels to maintain reliable connections in the interference-prone unlicensed bands.
Data Source
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AI summary
Technologies directed to a wireless network device with a single hardware architecture that supports multiple devices roles through software configuration are described. One wireless network device includes a housing with an RF connector and a circuit board with a first radio coupled to an internal antenna and a second radio coupled to an external antenna via the RF connector. The second antenna is mounted on an exterior surface of the building and coupled to the RF connector via an RF cable. The wireless network device establishes a first wireless link between the first radio and a radio of a second device via the first antenna and a second wireless link between the second radio and a radio of a third device via the second antenna. The second device can be a second wireless network device that is programmed to operate as a gateway, the gateway being mounted outside of the building. The third device is located inside the building can be either a customer premises equipment (CPE) station or a wireless endpoint device. Each of the wireless network device, the second wireless network device, and the CPE station include identical hardware.