Modular Access Gateway With Interchangeable Transmission Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing access gateways lack the ability to be easily upgraded or modified to meet changing network requirements, limiting their adaptability to evolving data transmission standards and user needs.
Innovation Solution
A network apparatus comprising a base station and a docking station with interchangeable transmission modules, where the modules have compatible interfaces, allowing for the extension of functions and easy swapping of modules such as wireless transmission modules operating in different frequency bands, and wired connections via Ethernet or powerline communications, with a discovery mechanism for automatic module recognition and configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If access gateways are designed with fixed functionalities, then device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but adaptability to different network requirements and upgrading capabilities deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The access gateway is divided into a base unit and separate functional modules (DSL module, Wi-Fi module, LTE module, etc.). Each module can be independently connected to the base unit via docking stations, allowing the system to be segmented into manageable, interchangeable components that can be configured according to specific network requirements without increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed with universal docking stations that can accommodate multiple types of transmission modules through standardized interfaces. This multi-functionality allows a single base unit to support various network technologies (DSL, Wi-Fi, LTE, Ethernet) by simply changing the connected module, thereby improving adaptability without requiring multiple different device designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If access gateways include multiple transmission modules integrated into a single unit, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of integrating all transmission modules into a single complex unit, the system segments them into separate, standalone modules that can be manufactured independently using standardized interfaces. This segmentation simplifies the manufacturing process for each individual module while maintaining adaptability through the modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking station serves as an intermediary component that connects the base unit with various transmission modules. This intermediary layer standardizes the interface between different components, simplifying manufacturing by providing a consistent connection mechanism while enabling adaptability through the ability to swap different module types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If access gateways are designed for upgrading functionalities, then adaptability and network capability are improved, but device complexity and configuration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automatic detection and configuration capabilities where the base unit automatically detects when a new module is connected via the docking station and configures itself without requiring manual intervention from the user. This self-service approach maintains ease of operation while enabling easy upgrading of functionalities by simply plugging in new modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where the base unit continuously monitors the status of connected modules and automatically adjusts its configuration based on the detected module types. This feedback loop ensures that upgrading functionalities remains simple, as the system automatically adapts its operation to the current module configuration without requiring complex user setup procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A network apparatus (1) including —a base station (10) having a first interface (12); —a docking station (20) connectable with the base station (10) and having a second interface (22); and —at least one transmission module of a plurality of interchangeable transmission modules (13a, 13b) configured to be connected to the base station (10) or to the docking station (20), wherein the transmission modules (13a, 13b) have network interfaces compatible with both the first interface (12) and the second interface (22).