Integrated Wireless Signal Extender in Wall Outlet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standalone wireless signal extenders occupy space, require separate power outlets, and are aesthetically undesirable, making it desirable to integrate wireless signal extenders into electrical wiring devices to enhance WLAN coverage without the need for additional hardware.
Innovation Solution
Electrical wiring devices with integrated wireless signal extenders that include AC outlets and a wireless signal extender circuit, capable of receiving and transmitting wireless signals, such as Wi-Fi, to extend network coverage within a smaller area, eliminating the need for standalone extenders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standalone wireless signal extender is used to extend signal range, then the wireless network coverage is improved, but the space occupation and aesthetic appearance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the wireless signal extender functionality with a wall outlet receptacle into a single integrated unit. The extender circuit is housed within the receptacle housing, allowing the device to serve dual purposes: providing electrical power through the outlet and extending wireless signals simultaneously, thereby eliminating the need for separate standalone extender devices that occupy additional space.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions within a single unit: it acts as both a wall outlet for electrical power delivery and a wireless signal extender for network coverage expansion. This multi-functionality allows the device to replace both a standalone outlet and a separate extender, reducing overall space requirements while maintaining both electrical and wireless connectivity services.
2Reliability
If a standalone wireless signal extender is installed to extend signal range, then the wireless network coverage is improved, but the need for separate power outlets increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the power supply functionality directly into the extender unit by incorporating an AC receptacle housing with power output terminals. This allows the wireless signal extender to be powered through the same outlet it is mounted in, eliminating the need for separate power outlets and simplifying the overall installation requirements.
3Reliability
If a high power wireless signal extender is used to extend signal range to multiple rooms, then the wireless network coverage is improved, but the space occupation and aesthetic appearance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the extender functionality into a wall outlet receptacle, the device adopts a conventional outlet form factor that is aesthetically pleasing and blends seamlessly into standard wall decor. This eliminates the need for bulky standalone extender devices that would be visually obtrusive, while still providing effective signal extension through the integrated extender circuit.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical wiring device includes a receptacle housing comprising alternating current (AC) terminal openings. The electrical wiring device further includes an AC power output terminals disposed within the receptacle housing and aligned with the AC terminal openings. The AC power output terminals are designed to receive prongs of an electrical plug through the AC terminal openings. The electrical wiring device also includes a wireless signal extender circuit disposed within the receptacle housing. The wireless signal extender circuit is configured to receive an incoming wireless signal and to transmit an outgoing wireless signal, where the outgoing wireless signal is generated based on the incoming wireless signal.