Power Line Communication Using FFT and Neural Interference Analysis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems for controlling devices in large commercial buildings face challenges due to interference, range limitations, and high costs associated with transceivers, making it difficult to reliably and economically control functions like lighting and security systems.
Innovation Solution
A power line communication system that uses a controller plugged into an AC outlet to analyze interference patterns and select optimal frequencies and paths for reliable communication with devices plugged into other outlets, utilizing FFT modules and neural networks to predict interference-free transmission windows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless communication systems (Bluetooth, WiFi) are used to control devices, then convenience and ease of installation are improved, but reliability and range are worsened due to interference and range limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses power lines as an intermediary medium for communication, replacing direct wireless communication between controller and devices. The power line network serves as a shared communication channel that leverages existing electrical infrastructure, allowing controllers to communicate with devices throughout large buildings without being limited by wireless range or interference issues.
2Reliability
If transceivers are installed in each device to be controlled, then communication capability is improved, but system cost is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the power line network serve multiple functions simultaneously - it provides both electrical power distribution and data communication capabilities. This eliminates the need for separate transceivers in each device, as the power line infrastructure itself becomes the communication medium, reducing overall system cost while maintaining communication capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the power distribution network and communication network into a single integrated system. By combining these two functions into the power line infrastructure, the system eliminates redundant components and reduces costs while maintaining reliable communication between controllers and controlled devices.
3Reliability
If wired communication systems (DMX, PLC) are used to establish connectivity, then reliability in difficult environments is improved, but device complexity and installation complexity are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing power line infrastructure serve dual purposes - power distribution and data communication. This eliminates the need for separate communication wiring infrastructure, reducing installation complexity while maintaining the reliability benefits of wired communication in difficult environments.
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 reliable and cost-effective control of multiple devices by minimizing interference through frequency analysis and intelligent path selection, allowing for efficient communication over AC power lines in large buildings.
Implementation Method 1
In some embodiments, the controller has a front end that comprises a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) module. The FFT module provides frequency analysis that is used to determine when to transmit commands to each device and which frequencies are available to be used for such transmissions.
Implementation Method 2
A power line communication system that uses a controller plugged into an AC outlet to analyze interference patterns and select optimal frequencies and paths for reliable communication with devices plugged into other outlets
Data Source
AI summary
A reliable method and apparatus for communications over AC power lines that may have substantial interference is disclosed. A controller can be plugged into an AC outlet and communicate with a device plugged into any other AC outlet over the power lines within the facility. The controller may perform an analysis of the interference that is present on the power lines that run throughout the facility. In some cases, the particular path for power line signals can be selected to reduce the potential for interference. In some cases, the controller has a front end that comprises a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) module and a neural network. In addition, devices under the control of the controller may have neural networks that can be used in combination to form a collaborative neural network.