Multi-Switch Module Powering via Unit Configurations

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Solution Overview

Problem

In multi-dwelling units, installing individual satellite dishes is impractical due to structural and regulatory constraints, and existing local content distribution systems require significant wiring and power infrastructure, which can be costly and inconvenient for smaller units.

Innovation Solution

A system with a multi-switch module and unit configurations that multiplex and distribute television signals, using a splitting module to power the multi-switch system, allowing each unit configuration to power the system independently, reducing the need for dedicated power supplies and infrastructure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If individual satellite dishes are installed for each subscriber in multi-dwelling units, then signal reception quality is improved, but installation feasibility and compliance with building codes deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal reception qualityVSAvoidinstallation feasibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple individual satellite dish installations are merged into a single shared satellite dish that serves multiple unit configurations. The shared dish receives signals that are then distributed through a multi-switch module to multiple receivers in different units, eliminating the need for individual dishes while maintaining signal reception capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

A single satellite dish and receiver system is designed to serve multiple functions by providing television signals to multiple unit configurations simultaneously. The system acts as a universal solution that replaces numerous individual installation systems with one multi-functional distribution network.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of manufacture

If local content distribution systems are installed to service multiple units from a single satellite dish, then installation feasibility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to required wiring and power infrastructure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation feasibilityVSAvoidwiring and power infrastructure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each unit configuration's receiver system provides its own power to the multi-switch module through power injection into the coaxial cable. This eliminates the need for separate power wiring infrastructure, as the system uses the existing signal distribution cables to also carry power from the receivers back to the switching module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The coaxial cable infrastructure serves dual functions: transmitting television signals from the satellite dish to receivers and simultaneously transmitting power from receivers back to the multi-switch module. This multi-functional use of existing cables eliminates the need for separate power wiring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional content distribution systems are deployed in smaller multi-dwelling units, then service coverage is improved, but cost-effectiveness deteriorates due to funding requirements for power supplies and electrical contractor services

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice coverageVSAvoidcost-effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The receiver systems in individual unit configurations generate and provide their own power to the shared multi-switch module through power injection. This eliminates the need for centralized power supply installation by electrical contractors, making the system cost-effective for smaller multi-dwelling units where funding for extensive electrical work is unavailable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The coaxial cable acts as an intermediary that carries both signal and power between the satellite dish, multi-switch module, and individual receivers. This intermediary infrastructure enables power distribution without requiring separate electrical wiring, reducing overall system cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8726320B1System and method for providing service to a multi-dwelling unit
Publication Date: 2014.05.13 DIRECTV LLC
  • US8726320B1 patent drawing
  • US8726320B1 patent drawing
  • US8726320B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for distributing television signals includes a multi-switch module multiplexing television signals therethrough. The system further includes a plurality of unit configurations having respective power sources therein. The plurality of unit configurations receives the television signals. The system also includes a splitting module in communication with the multi-switch module and the plurality of unit configurations whereby at least one of the plurality of unit configurations powers the multi-switch module.