Flexible Access Point Backplane to Cut Wireless Cabling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wireless networking installations face inefficiencies due to the use of discrete, self-contained access points that require extensive cabling, costly switches, and unpredictable power provisioning, leading to increased installation complexity and resource waste.
Innovation Solution
Implement a system of integrated access points embedded in a flexible strip with a unified backplane interconnect, allowing daisy-chaining and reducing cabling by up to 10 times, using custom power distribution and interconnects like USB or Ethernet, and eliminating the need for a multi-port switch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If discrete access points are used for wireless networking, then wireless coverage can be provided, but extensive cabling and costly switches are required
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple access points are integrated into a single flexible strip assembly, combining what were previously separate discrete devices into one unified structure. This merging eliminates the need for multiple individual cabling connections to a central switch, as the access points within the strip can communicate with each other and with external networks through a single connection point.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible strip is divided into multiple segments or sections, each containing access point components. These segments can be independently configured but are physically integrated into a single flexible structure, allowing the system to provide wireless coverage across multiple locations while maintaining a unified cabling infrastructure.
2Reliability
If discrete access points are deployed to ensure adequate service, then wireless coverage is improved, but installation costs and resource waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple access points into a single flexible strip, the system reduces redundant power consumption associated with multiple discrete devices operating independently. The shared infrastructure and coordinated operation of access points within the strip optimize power usage while maintaining adequate wireless service coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible strip assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously - providing wireless coverage across multiple locations, reducing cabling requirements, and optimizing power distribution. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate installations and reduces overall resource consumption.
3Reliability
If traditional cabling methods are used for each access point, then reliable network connection is achieved, but cabling quantity and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple access points within the flexible strip are interconnected through internal wiring, allowing them to share a single external network connection. This merging of connection paths dramatically reduces the total amount of cabling material required compared to traditional methods where each access point requires separate cabling to the network infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible strip introduces a new dimensional approach to network deployment by arranging access points in a linear flexible structure that can be installed along walls, ceilings, or other surfaces. This spatial arrangement allows multiple access points to be served through a single connection point, changing the traditional point-to-point cabling model into a distributed linear topology.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for providing access to a wireless network include apparatus, manufacturing, and configuration techniques. Embodiments include a head-end configured to receive electrical power and communicate with the wireless network. In an embodiment, a plurality of integrated access points each comprises components such as a radio, a power supply, a controller, a network transceiver, and an antenna. The components of each integrated access point, whether or not they are assembled on one or more rigid or flexible cards, may be embedded in a material expanse such as a flexible strip, upon which each set of components may be proximally integrated. In an embodiment, a system includes a unified backplane interconnect coupled to the head-end, the unified backplane interconnect comprising a plurality of interconnects. Each integrated access point may comprise a single radio or more than one radio.