Programmable Switches for Dynamic Capacity Allocation in Distributed Antenna Systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Distributed antenna systems (DASs) face inefficiencies in managing capacity demands as the number of wireless client devices increases, leading to underutilization of resources and the need for frequent upgrades or replacements, as well as uneven capacity distribution across remote coverage areas.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of programmable switches and extender modules in DASs allows for dynamic configuration of communications service sector sets to be distributed to specific remote antenna units, enabling flexible expansion and optimization of capacity based on demand, allowing for targeted capacity allocation to areas that require it.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If distributed antenna systems deploy multiple remote antenna units to cover large areas, then coverage area is improved, but resource utilization efficiency deteriorates due to uneven capacity distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the coverage area into multiple remote antenna units, each serving a specific geographic sector. This allows capacity to be distributed and allocated to specific sectors based on demand, preventing waste in low-demand areas while maintaining coverage in high-demand areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically allocates capacity resources to remote antenna units based on real-time demand conditions. Capacity can be programmatically adjusted and redistributed across different sectors as user density and traffic patterns change, optimizing resource utilization while maintaining adequate coverage.
2Quantity of substance
If distributed antenna systems increase capacity to meet growing client device demands, then service capacity is improved, but system complexity and upgrade frequency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a universal programmable architecture where a single centralized unit can dynamically configure and control multiple remote antenna units across different sectors. This multi-functional platform can adapt to varying capacity demands through software configuration rather than requiring physical hardware upgrades, reducing system complexity while scaling capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters through programmable configuration rather than physical modification. Capacity allocation, sector definitions, and resource distribution are adjusted by modifying system parameters and software settings, enabling scalable capacity increases without proportionally increasing physical system complexity or upgrade frequency.
3Ease of operation
If distributed antenna systems allocate capacity uniformly across all remote antenna units, then system simplicity is improved, but adaptability to varying demand worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static uniform capacity allocation to dynamic demand-based allocation. A centralized controller programmatically adjusts capacity distribution across remote antenna units based on monitored demand conditions, maintaining operational simplicity through automated control while achieving high adaptability to varying user density and traffic patterns across different sectors.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein include distributed antenna systems (DASs) supporting expanded, programmable communications services distribution to remote communications service sector areas. In one embodiment, the DAS includes a first programmable switch for distributing downlink communications signals into one or more communications service sector sets. The DAS further includes a second programmable switch configured to distribute the one or more communications service sector sets to one or more remote communications service sector areas. A configurable extender module is also included to provide expanded routing of communications service sector sets in the DAS. In this manner, the DAS is programmable to allow any combination of communications service sector sets and expanded communications service sector sets from any number of different base stations to be routed to any combination of remote communications service sector areas and expanded remote communications service sector areas, based on capacity needs and capability of the DAS.