RF to Optical Data Distribution System for Cost-Effective Multi-Location Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data distribution systems are costly and bulky, making them unsuitable for smaller scale environments such as domestic premises, while also being unattractive for installation, and fail to provide efficient and cost-effective distribution of broadcast data to multiple locations within a premises.
Innovation Solution
A system that receives digital data, changes its format from RF to optical, and splits it into multiple data paths using an optical splitter and diffractive member, allowing transmission via optical cables to multiple locations, where it can be converted back to RF for processing by set-top boxes, enabling user selection of video and audio programs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional data distribution systems are used, then data can be distributed to multiple locations, but the cost and bulkiness of apparatus and installation becomes prohibitive for smaller scale environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional RF-based electrical signal transmission with optical signal transmission through optical fibres. This substitution enables data distribution to multiple locations using lightweight optical components rather than bulky electrical infrastructure, significantly reducing installation complexity and cost while maintaining the ability to deliver data to multiple destinations simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an optical splitter to divide the incoming optical data signal into multiple separate optical data paths, each destined for a different location. This segmentation allows a single input signal to be distributed to multiple outputs without requiring separate transmission lines for each destination, reducing overall system complexity and installation costs
2Device complexity
If known distribution systems are used for smaller scale environments, then installation cost is reduced, but the apparatus becomes extremely bulky and obtrusive
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing electrical signal transmission with optical transmission, the system eliminates the need for large electrical infrastructure components. Optical fibres are much thinner and lighter than conventional electrical cables, and optical splitters are significantly smaller than electrical distribution equipment, thereby reducing the volume and obtrusiveness of installed apparatus while maintaining affordable installation costs
3Reliability
If all data is transmitted to all locations, then complete data availability is ensured, but data transmission efficiency is reduced due to unnecessary transmission of data not required at certain locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control over data distribution by enabling selective activation of data paths based on user requirements. Rather than statically transmitting all data to all locations, the system can dynamically route only the necessary data to specific locations, improving transmission efficiency while maintaining reliable data availability where needed through on-demand activation of appropriate data paths
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
The system provides a cost-effective and efficient distribution of digital data to multiple locations within a premises, allowing for simultaneous reception of broadcast services, reducing installation complexity and bulkiness, and enabling user selection of programs, suitable for smaller scale environments.
Implementation Method 1
an optical modulator is provided which modulates the data signal in an optical domain
Implementation Method 2
a diffractive optical element is provided which diffracts the optical data signal into a plurality of data paths
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a system, apparatus and method for the distribution of digital data signals, which are received at a receiving means, to be sent to a plurality of locations downstream therefrom, in an efficient manner. The received data is received in a first format such as an RF format with a plurality of different components and is then changed in format, in one embodiment to an optical format. The data path is also split to allow a plurality of data paths to be defined which allow the data to be transmitted along the plurality of data paths to each of the downstream locations.