Modular Access Point with Interchangeable Radio Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless local area networks (WLANs) face challenges in maximizing hardware functionality while adhering to industrial design requirements, particularly in providing flexibility for dual-band functionality without unnecessary hardware investments.
Innovation Solution
A modular access point design that includes a housing with a module receiving slot for interchangeable radio modules, allowing users to upgrade from single-band to dual-band functionality by adding a removable module with a second communication radio, and interchangeable antenna connectors for external or internal antennas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dual-band functionality is implemented using APs compliant with IEEE 802.11a and/or 802.11b/g, then the WLAN can operate at both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency ranges, but the hardware complexity and initial investment increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The access point is divided into separate functional modules: a base unit containing housing and one radio, and removable module(s) containing additional radios. This segmentation allows users to start with a single-band configuration and add bands later, reducing initial hardware complexity while maintaining future adaptability for dual-band operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable module is designed with universal compatibility to work with the base unit, enabling the system to function with different module configurations. A single base unit can support various radio modules for different frequency bands, making the hardware platform versatile without requiring multiple dedicated devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If consumers are given flexibility to modify appearance and functionality of WLAN components, then user customization and adaptability improve, but device complexity and design constraints increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the access point into a fixed base unit and removable modules, the design separates core functionality from customizable elements. Users can modify appearance and functionality by swapping modules without affecting the base unit, providing flexibility while keeping the overall system design manageable and not overly complex.
3Ease of operation
If interchangeable antenna modules are provided for external or internal antennas, then ease of operation and customization improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna connectors are designed as universal interfaces that can accommodate different antenna types (internal or external, various forms). This universal design simplifies operation by providing a single connector standard for all antenna replacements, while the modular architecture manages the complexity of supporting multiple antenna configurations through standardized interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
Described is a modular access point for wireless communications. The access point includes a housing which has at least one module receiving slot and a first wireless communication radio. The radio communicates with a first wireless device via a first frequency band. The access point also includes a removable module configured for insertion into the module receiving slot. The module includes a second communication radio utilizing a second frequency band so that, when the removable module is inserted into the slot, the access point is capable of communicating with a second wireless device via at least one of the first and second frequency bands. The access point includes a plurality of antenna connectors which are connected to the first and second radios. The access point may utilize external antennas or internal antenna modules which interchangeably attachable to the antenna connectors.