Hybrid PON Surface Wave RF Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current high bandwidth communication last-mile access technologies, such as DSL, are geographically limited and do not fully meet customer needs, necessitating a new architecture for distributing high bandwidth signals.
Innovation Solution
The use of electrical transmission lines for distributing high bandwidth RF signals via surface wave transmission, combined with RF/Optical converters that convert RF signals into optical signals for transmission through passive optical networks (PONs) to customer sites.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If DSL access is used for high bandwidth communication, then communication service can be provided, but geographical coverage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repurposes existing electrical transmission lines (power lines) for dual functionality: traditional power distribution and RF signal transmission. This allows the same infrastructure to serve multiple purposes, expanding geographical coverage without requiring dedicated communication infrastructure in every location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the existing electrical distribution network that already reaches customer premises to provide communication services. The infrastructure serves itself by carrying both power and communication signals through the same medium, eliminating the need for separate communication line installation in geographically remote areas.
2Productivity
If wireless link or coax cable is used for last-mile access, then high bandwidth communication is achieved, but infrastructure complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables electrical transmission lines to perform dual functions: power distribution and RF signal transmission. This eliminates the need for separate communication infrastructure, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high bandwidth capability through the shared infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges power distribution and communication functions into a single infrastructure platform. By combining these services on the same electrical lines, the patent reduces the number of separate systems needed, simplifying deployment and reducing infrastructure complexity.
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
This approach enables the widespread availability of high bandwidth signals where electrical power is accessible, overcoming geographical limitations of existing technologies and providing reliable communication networks.
Implementation Method 1
The RF signals are sent along the electrical transmission lines using surface wave transmission
Implementation Method 2
RF/Optical converters located along the electrical transmission lines are used to convert the RF signals into optical signals
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for distributing high bandwidth signals is disclosed. The system and method use electrical transmission lines to distribute high bandwidth RF signals. The RF signals are sent along the electrical transmission lines using surface wave transmission. RF/Optical converters located along the electrical transmission lines are used to convert the RF signals into optical signals. Passive optical networks (PON) are used to transmit the optical signals between the RF/Optical converter and a customer site or location.