Power Line Communication Apparatus Frequency Band Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In power line communication systems, different communication apparatuses using various methods connected to a common transmission line often interfere with each other, leading to communication errors due to inability to demodulate signals from devices with different communication protocols, resulting in cumbersome modulation processes to enable coexistence.
Innovation Solution
A communication apparatus and method that includes a receiver, carrier detector, and channel setting unit to detect and set time or frequency bands for data transmission, allowing coexistence of devices with different communication methods without complex modulation processes, using distinct phase vectors for synchronization and request signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different communication apparatuses using various methods are connected to a common transmission line, then communication versatility is improved, but signal interference increases and communication reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission line is segmented into distinct frequency bands, with each communication apparatus assigned to a specific frequency band. This segmentation allows multiple communication methods to coexist on the same transmission line without interfering with each other, as each apparatus operates in its designated frequency segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces frequency as an additional dimension for signal differentiation. By assigning different frequency bands to different communication apparatuses, the system transforms the one-dimensional time-sharing approach into a multi-dimensional frequency-based coexistence mechanism, enabling simultaneous operation without interference.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modulation processes are performed to enable coexistence of different communication methods, then communication compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each communication apparatus automatically detects and identifies other apparatuses on the transmission line by analyzing their transmitted signals. The apparatus independently determines the communication methods being used and autonomously selects an appropriate frequency band that avoids interference, eliminating the need for complex centralized coordination or sophisticated modulation schemes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating frequency parameter of each communication apparatus based on the detected communication methods of other apparatuses. By dynamically adjusting the frequency band according to the presence and type of other communication devices, the system achieves compatibility without requiring complex modulation processes or protocol transformations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If carrier detection is performed to identify communication methods, then signal differentiation capability is improved, but detection precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication apparatus performs preliminary carrier detection before initiating data transmission. By detecting the presence and type of other communication apparatuses in advance, the system can proactively select an appropriate frequency band that avoids potential interference, rather than attempting to differentiate signals during active transmission when precision requirements would be higher.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication apparatus repeatedly outputs a first multi-carrier signal SS during predetermined periods T1, T2, T3, . . . , and outputs a second multi-carrier signal RS whose phase vector is different from that of the first multi-carrier signal SS, at a predetermined timing based on the first multi-carrier signal SS. The communication apparatus further detects the second multi-carrier signal RS output from another communication apparatus, which uses a different communication method from the communication apparatus. Accordingly, both communication apparatuses can differentiate the first multi-carrier signal SS from the second multi-carrier signal RS without performing relatively cumbersome modulation and other processes.