Multi-Repeater RF Signal Amplification via Wireless Power Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Wireless repeaters face challenges in providing effective amplification of RF signals within structures due to signal loss and regulatory constraints, necessitating improved solutions for enhancing signal strength and coverage while complying with industry standards.

Innovation Solution

A multi-repeater system with bi-directional amplifiers and wireless power transfer capabilities, where repeaters are configured to automatically receive, amplify, and retransmit RF signals without frequency change, using wireless or optical power transmission through structural elements, and conductive films to manage feedback and isolation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If a single repeater with amplifier is used to boost RF signals, then signal strength is improved, but signal loss through structural elements and feedback issues worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal strengthVSAvoidsignal loss

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides a single repeater function into two separate repeaters (first repeater 202 and second repeater 204) positioned on opposite sides of a structural element. Each repeater handles signal amplification independently, reducing feedback issues and signal loss that would occur with a single amplifier positioned alone relative to the structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The structural element (wall, window, door) acts as an intermediary between the two repeaters. By positioning repeaters on opposite sides of this intermediary, the system compensates for signal attenuation caused by the structural element, ensuring both transmit and receive signals can penetrate the structure effectively.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Area of stationary object

If amplifier gain is increased to overcome signal loss, then coverage is improved, but regulatory compliance worsens

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidregulatory compliance

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The total amplification requirement is segmented between two repeaters rather than concentrated in one device. Each repeater operates at lower gain levels, allowing coverage area to be extended through distributed amplification while keeping individual amplifier outputs within regulatory limits.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a single-point amplification approach to a distributed two-point amplification approach. By placing repeaters on opposite sides of the structure, coverage is extended in multiple spatial dimensions, reducing the need for high gain in any single direction and improving regulatory compliance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of operation

If wireless power transfer is implemented to simplify installation, then ease of installation is improved, but power transmission reliability worsens

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidpower transmission reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces mechanical cable connections with wireless power transfer using electromagnetic fields. Power is transmitted through the structural element via electromagnetic coupling between coils, eliminating the need for physical cable installation while maintaining reliable power delivery to the repeaters.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The wireless power transmission system operates at optimized frequency and power levels to ensure reliable power transfer through the structural element. By adjusting transmission parameters such as frequency, power output, and coil positioning, the system achieves both ease of installation and reliable power delivery.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

The system enhances RF signal strength and coverage by compensating for signal losses through structural elements, maintains regulatory compliance, and simplifies installation by eliminating the need for cables, thereby improving wireless communication performance.

Implementation Method 1

The first repeater 202 and the second repeater 204 can be configured to transfer power between each other in a wireless fashion

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWireless power transfer: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

A multi-repeater system with bi-directional amplifiers and wireless power transfer capabilities, where repeaters are configured to automatically receive, amplify, and retransmit RF signals

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSignal amplification:

Data Source

PatentUS10637557B2Multi-amplifier repeater system for wireless communication

Publication Date: 2020.04.28 WILSON ELECTRONICS LLC

AI summary

Technology for a multi-repeater system including wireless transmission of power from a first repeater to a second repeater is disclosed. A first and second repeater can be disposed opposite each other about a structural element. Wireless power can be transmitted from the first repeater through the structural element to the second repeater for use by the second repeater.