Optical Wireless Hotspot Powering via Combined Data and Laser Beams
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for wireless communication devices that do not require power and can receive data, particularly in environments where electrical power is unavailable, and can provide a gateway to communication networks without the need for power cables, addressing challenges in indoor spaces and limited radiofrequency bandwidth.
Innovation Solution
An optical wireless communication system utilizing an optical base station and autonomous wireless hotspot devices that use optical transceivers and laser power converters to transmit power and data without cables, enabling self-powering and data transmission in indoor and outdoor environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication devices are deployed in spaces without electrical power, then wireless communication coverage is improved, but the devices cannot operate without external power sources
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous wireless hotspot device harvests optical energy from ambient light sources to power its own operation, eliminating the need for external power sources or battery replacements. The device converts captured optical energy into electrical energy to sustain its wireless communication functions independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional electrical power delivery systems (wires, outlets, batteries) with an optical energy harvesting system. Instead of using mechanical or electrical connections to supply power, the device uses photovoltaic materials to convert light directly into electrical energy for operation.
2Loss of information
If radiofrequency bandwidth is used for wireless communication, then data transmission is achieved, but bandwidth limitations reduce communication efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the communication medium from radiofrequency electromagnetic waves to optical electromagnetic waves. This parameter change enables vastly higher bandwidth and data transmission rates, overcoming the limitations of traditional RF communication while the device operates wirelessly in spaces without electrical power.
3Use of energy by moving object
If power cables are installed to provide electrical power, then power availability is improved, but installation complexity and construction requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device powers itself by harvesting optical energy from the environment, eliminating the need for complex power cable installations, electrical wiring, or connection to power outlets. The autonomous hotspot converts ambient light into electrical energy, requiring no external power infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the power supply function from the external infrastructure (power cables, outlets, electrical grid) and integrates it directly into the device through onboard optical energy harvesting. This extraction eliminates the need for complex installation and allows deployment in locations where electrical power is unavailable.
4Loss of information
If traditional wireless hotspots are deployed, then data connectivity is provided, but the devices require wall electrical power outlets
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous wireless hotspot device harvests optical energy from ambient light sources to power its own operation, eliminating the need for external power sources or battery replacements. The device converts captured optical energy into electrical energy to sustain its wireless communication functions independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the communication medium from radiofrequency electromagnetic waves to optical electromagnetic waves. This parameter change enables vastly higher bandwidth and data transmission rates, overcoming the limitations of traditional RF communication while the device operates wirelessly in spaces without electrical power.
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
Enables quick and cost-effective installation of wireless communication systems without power cables, reduces radiofrequency bandwidth usage, enhances privacy and security, and provides efficient data delivery through free space optical communication.
Implementation Method 1
optical wireless communication system including an optical base station and an autonomous wireless hotspot
Implementation Method 2
The autonomous wireless hotspot may include an optical antenna, an optical transceiver, a laser power converter, a battery charge controller, and a battery
Data Source
AI summary
An optical power and data delivery system includes an optical base station and an autonomous wireless hotspot device. The optical base station includes routers, a media converter device, a optical data transceiver configured to transmit the received data laser light beam; one or more power laser devices configured to transmit a power laser light beam, a beam combining device to generate and transmit a combined power and data laser light beam through a first optical antenna. The autonomous wireless hotspot device includes a second optical antenna configured to receive the combined data and power laser light beam, an optical dividing device, an optical data transceiver, a media converter device and wireless communication transceivers to transmit wireless data signals and one or more laser power converters to receive the power laser light beam and to convert the power laser light beam into electrical energy.