Roadway Small Cell Data Expansion Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile broadband data services face limitations in coverage and efficiency, particularly with WiFi hotspots, as they provide high data transfer rates but are restricted to limited areas, making them ineffective for users moving between locations.
Innovation Solution
A system of spaced surface markers with illuminating elements, communication interfaces, and processing circuitry is deployed on roadways to define and manipulate traffic pathways, providing wireless communication links and mobile broadband access by acting as small cell data expansion devices, which can include solar-powered components and reflective materials for enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If WiFi hotspots are deployed to provide high data transfer rates, then data transfer speed is improved, but coverage area is limited and users cannot access services when moving between locations
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the coverage area into multiple segments by deploying multiple small cell data expansion devices along roadways. Each device covers a specific segment, and together they form a continuous coverage network that allows users to move between locations while maintaining connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from stationary WiFi hotspots to mobile-optimized small cell devices positioned along transportation corridors. This adds the dimension of mobility by aligning coverage with user movement patterns, enabling continuous access as users travel between locations.
2Area of stationary object
If cellular data networks are used to provide wider coverage, then coverage area is improved, but data transfer rates are lower compared to WiFi hotspots
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the advantages of both WiFi and cellular networks by deploying small cell devices that provide WiFi-level high-speed data transfer while being distributed along roadways to achieve cellular-level wide coverage. This combination resolves the trade-off between speed and coverage area.
Solution Approach 2:
The small cell data expansion devices serve multiple functions: they provide high-speed data transfer like WiFi hotspots, extend coverage like cellular networks, and enable mobile access for users in motion. This multi-functionality allows a single system to address both the speed and coverage requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If small cell data expansion devices are deployed along roadways to enable mobile access, then coverage and mobility are improved, but device complexity and deployment infrastructure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The small cell devices are designed to be self-contained with integrated power sources (including solar power capability), communication interfaces, and processing circuitry. This self-service design reduces deployment complexity by eliminating the need for extensive external infrastructure while maintaining mobile access capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Each small cell device is a universal unit that combines multiple functions: wireless communication, data expansion, power management, and environmental sensing. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity by consolidating what would otherwise require separate systems into single integrated devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A data expansion system that provides for wireless communication includes a set of roadway communication devices configured to enable vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication. The system includes a first roadway communication device configured to receive data from a first electronic device in a first vehicle and a second roadway communication device communicatively coupled to the first roadway device. The second roadway communication device is configured to communicate the data to a second electronic device in a second vehicle. Each roadway communication device includes a wireless transceiver to transmit and receive data; a communication interface to establish communication links with other roadway communication devices; and processing circuitry to relay the data between the other roadway communication devices or electronic devices in respective vehicles. Each roadway communication device also includes a housing that contains the processing circuitry, communication interface and the wireless transceiver. The housing is configured to be mounted within a roadway surface.