Ground Power Line Communication Using Phase-Offset MIMO
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Data transmission over airport ground power lines is hindered by large transients, noise, crosstalk, and radio interference, leading to signal degradation and interference with other systems, particularly in the high frequency and very high frequency ranges.
Innovation Solution
Employing Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output (MIMO) techniques to transmit multiple copies of the same signal over ground power lines, phase-offset to reduce radio interference and improve signal-to-noise ratio, using current transformers for electrical isolation and impedance matching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If transmission power is increased to compensate for signal degradation and noise on power lines, then signal-to-noise ratio improves and error rate reduces, but frequency harmonics, unwanted radiated energy and electromagnetic interference with other systems increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data transmission into multiple parallel streams transmitted over different power lines (phase wires). By dividing the transmission task across multiple channels, each individual signal can be transmitted at lower power levels while collectively providing sufficient data capacity, thus reducing electromagnetic interference and harmonics while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by utilizing multiple power lines (phase wires) as separate transmission channels. Instead of increasing power on a single line, the system transmits multiple data streams simultaneously across different spatial channels (different power lines), effectively increasing capacity without increasing interference on any single channel.
2Productivity
If multiple data streams are transmitted simultaneously over power lines, then data capacity increases, but radio interference and signal degradation from crosstalk and noise increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data transmission across multiple spatial channels (different power lines), allowing multiple data streams to be transmitted simultaneously without interfering with each other. Each stream occupies a separate physical channel, eliminating crosstalk and radio interference between streams while increasing overall data capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transmits multiple copies of data streams over different power lines simultaneously. By creating parallel copies of the transmission path, the system achieves higher data capacity while each copy experiences the same noise conditions independently, allowing for reliable reception without interference between streams.
3Adaptability or versatility
If power lines are used as unshielded transmission media, then existing infrastructure is utilized, but signal attenuation and noise from load variations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power line infrastructure into multiple separate phase wires, each serving as an independent transmission channel. This segmentation allows the system to exploit the existing unshielded power line infrastructure while providing multiple parallel paths for data transmission, compensating for signal attenuation and noise through diversity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the transmission parameters by utilizing the natural electrical characteristics of the power lines (voltage, current, impedance) as the transmission medium. By adapting the communication system to work with the existing power line parameters and infrastructure, the system achieves reliable data transmission without requiring additional shielding or infrastructure modifications.
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
Enhances data transmission reliability and reduces radio interference by combining multiple phase-offset signals, improving signal quality and reducing electromagnetic interference.
Implementation Method 1
current transformers for electrical isolation and impedance matching
Implementation Method 2
transmit multiple copies of the same signal over ground power lines, phase-offset to reduce radio interference and improve signal-to-noise ratio
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A method and apparatus is provided for communicating data over a ground power line between a vehicle and a ground terminal. In one example, a first power unit detects a signal indicating connection between the first power unit and a remote power unit. Responsive to detecting the signal, one or more modems associated with the first power unit automatically establish a data connection with one or more remote modems associated with the remote power unit. After establishing the connection between the one or more modems in the first power unit and the one or more modems in the remote power unit, the one or more modems in the first power unit exchange data with the one or more modems in the remote power unit over the power line. In one example, the first power unit may comprise an onboard power unit in a vehicle (e.g., aircraft) and the remote power unit may comprise a ground power unit. Alternatively, the first power unit may comprise a ground power unit and the remote power unit may comprise in a vehicle (e.g., aircraft).