Portable Router Case With Internal Antenna Array for Weak-Signal Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data communication units are large, bulky, and difficult to transport, with external antennas that are prone to damage and aesthetically unpleasing, making them unsuitable for reliable wireless and cellular communications, especially in areas with weak or non-existent signal coverage.
Innovation Solution
A portable data communications apparatus with a case that houses a router device, power supply, and an internal antenna array, including cellular, wireless networking, and satellite antennas, providing reliable wireless and cellular communications and GPS services, while being durable and aesthetically appealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external antennas are used on data communication units, then wireless signal reception is improved, but the device becomes cumbersome and aesthetically unpleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates antennas inside the housing of the data communication unit, nesting the antenna elements within the case structure. This internal integration eliminates the need for external antennas while maintaining wireless communication functionality, thereby improving aesthetics and reducing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs porous or perforated housing materials that allow electromagnetic waves to pass through while maintaining structural integrity. This enables internal antennas to receive signals effectively without requiring external antenna structures, resolving the contradiction between internal integration and signal reception performance.
2Ease of operation
If conventional data communication units are made portable, then mobility is improved, but durability and protection against external damage worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates cushioning materials and protective structures within the housing design to absorb and dissipate impact forces before they reach internal components. This beforehand cushioning protects sensitive electronics and antennas during transport while maintaining portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite housing materials that combine lightweight properties for portability with high strength and impact resistance for durability. The composite structure provides both mobility and protection against external damage simultaneously.
3Reliability
If multiple antenna types are integrated inside the case, then communication reliability in weak signal areas is improved, but internal space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple antenna types (cellular, Wi-Fi, GPS, satellite) into a single integrated antenna array structure. By merging antenna elements and sharing common support structures, the design achieves multi-functionality while minimizing the volume occupied by the antenna system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges antenna elements in three-dimensional configurations and utilizes vertical space within the housing. This dimensional optimization allows multiple antenna types to be packed efficiently without significantly increasing the overall footprint of the device.
Data Source
AI summary
A data communications apparatus is disclosed for providing a data communications network. The apparatus includes a portable carrying case. A power supply is securable inside the case. A router device is securable inside the case, the router device including at least one cellular gateway for wide area network communication and configured to enable at least one wireless network for local area network communication. An antenna array is in electrical communication with the router device, the antenna array including at least a first pair of cellular antennas, at least two wireless networking antennas, and a satellite antenna. The first pair of cellular antennas are configured to support multiple input multiple output applications for the at least one cellular gateway, and the at least two wireless networking antennas are configured to support multiple input multiple output applications for the at least one wireless network.