Multi-Use Repeater With Variable Gain Signal Splitter
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved wireless repeater systems that can provide both limited and expanded signal boosting capabilities, particularly in recreational vehicles which can be both mobile and stationary, and have larger interior spaces that exceed the gain limits of typical mobile wireless repeaters.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a repeater system with a bi-directional amplifier configuration, including a donor antenna and a server antenna, along with a signal splitter that can provide different gain levels to accommodate various environments, such as a maximum gain of 23 dB for cradles and 65-72 dB for stationary interior antennas, while complying with regulatory limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wireless repeater provides high gain signal boosting (65-72 dB) for stationary interior antennas, then signal coverage in large buildings is improved, but regulatory compliance is violated when used in mobile vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between high gain mode (65-72 dB) for stationary interior antenna applications and low gain mode (23 dB) for mobile vehicle applications. The gain level is adjusted based on the operational context, allowing the same repeater to comply with regulatory requirements for mobile use while providing maximum signal coverage for stationary installations.
Solution Approach 2:
The repeater changes its operating parameter (gain level) based on the application scenario. By configuring different gain levels, the system adapts to different regulatory environments and usage scenarios, transitioning from a fixed-gain design to a variable-gain architecture that can optimize performance for each specific case.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a wireless repeater is designed for mobile vehicle use with limited gain (23 dB), then regulatory compliance is maintained, but signal coverage in large interior spaces is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts gain levels based on the operational mode. When deployed in stationary interior environments, the repeater switches to high gain mode (65-72 dB) to provide adequate signal coverage for large spaces, while automatically or manually switching to low gain mode (23 dB) when used in mobile vehicles to maintain regulatory compliance.
Solution Approach 2:
The repeater is designed to perform multiple functions by supporting different gain configurations. A single device can serve both mobile vehicle applications (with 23 dB gain) and stationary interior building applications (with 65-72 dB gain), eliminating the need for separate specialized devices for each scenario.
3Reliability
If separate repeater systems are used for mobile and stationary applications, then each system is optimized for its specific use, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of separate mobile and stationary repeater systems into a single multi-use device. By integrating both low gain (23 dB) and high gain (65-72 dB) capabilities into one repeater, the system eliminates the need for maintaining separate device inventories and reduces overall system complexity despite the enhanced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The repeater is designed as a universal device that can function in both mobile and stationary contexts. Through configurable gain levels and dual antenna support, a single device replaces what would traditionally require two different specialized repeaters, simplifying deployment and reducing complexity.
4Reliability
If high gain amplification is used throughout the system, then signal strength is maximized, but interference and regulatory violations occur in mobile environments
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different gain levels to different signal paths and operational contexts. High gain (65-72 dB) is applied locally to the interior antenna path for stationary building applications, while low gain (23 dB) is applied to the mobile vehicle path. This localized quality adjustment ensures maximum signal strength where needed without creating interference in mobile environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The gain level is dynamically adjusted based on the operational mode. The system transitions from static high gain amplification to dynamic gain control, selecting appropriate amplification levels (23 dB or 65-72 dB) based on whether the repeater is deployed in mobile or stationary environments, thereby preventing interference while maintaining signal strength.
Data Source
AI summary
A repeater system comprises a repeater with a donor port, a server port, and first and second direction amplification paths to amplify one or more RF communication signals coupled between the server and donor ports. A signal splitter is communicatively coupled to the repeater and has first and second signal splitter ports. Signal splitter paths are coupled to the signal splitter ports. The repeater system can be configured to communicate the RF communication signals to a server antenna device on each signal splitter path with a different gain relative to the donor port.