Signal Repeater Using Frequency Conversion to Reduce Reflected Interference

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Solution Overview

Problem

Signal repeaters cause interference issues due to reflected signals, necessitating an efficient improvement in their implementation and operation.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus and method for receiving and processing signals with different radio wave characteristics, changing their frequencies, multiplexing them for transmission over a single wired connection, and separating them back into separate signals with distinct frequencies for transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If signal repeaters are used to extend signal coverage, then signal reach is improved, but interference from reflected signals increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal reachVSAvoidinterference from reflected signals

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary frequency transformation step that converts received signals at the first frequency to intermediate frequencies before transmission. This intermediary process allows the repeater to handle multiple signals with different characteristics without direct interaction, thereby reducing interference while extending signal reach.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the frequency parameter of signals during repetition. By transforming signals from the first frequency to intermediate frequencies and then to a second frequency, the system modifies signal parameters to avoid interference while maintaining signal reach extension functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If multiple signals with different radio wave characteristics are processed separately, then signal integrity is maintained, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal integrityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the processing of multiple signals with different radio wave characteristics into a unified frequency transformation system. Instead of maintaining separate processing paths, the system combines signals at the intermediate frequency stage, reducing system complexity while preserving signal integrity through controlled frequency conversion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal frequency transformation mechanism that handles multiple signal types with different characteristics through the same processing pathway. The frequency conversion system serves multiple functions: maintaining signal integrity, reducing interference, and simplifying the overall system architecture by providing a multi-functional processing approach.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This approach reduces interference by effectively handling multiple signals with different polarizations and frequencies, enhancing the efficiency and operation of signal repeaters.

Implementation Method 1

means for changing the frequency of at least one of the first and second signals to provide intermediate first and second signals such that the intermediate first and second signals have different frequencies

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFrequency conversion:

Implementation Method 2

means for multiplexing the intermediate first and second signals to allow the intermediate first and second signals to be transmitted together via a single wired connection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSignal multiplexing:

Implementation Method 3

means for separating the intermediate third and fourth signals into separate signals

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSignal separation:

Implementation Method 4

means for changing the frequency of at least one of the intermediate third and fourth signals to provide third and fourth signals at a transmission frequency

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFrequency conversion:

Data Source

PatentUS12451932B2Apparatus, method, computer program for repeating signals

Publication Date: 2025.10.21 NOKIA SOLUTIONS & NETWORKS OY

AI summary

In one embodiment, an apparatus performs receiving, via two different signal pathways, at least two different signals that are associated with different radio wave characteristics; changing the frequency of signal(s) to provide intermediate signal(s) with each having different frequencies; multiplexing the intermediate signals to allow signals to be transmitted together via a single wired connection; receiving a multiplexed signal via the single wired connection, the multiplexed signal including intermediate further signals having different frequencies, the intermediate further signals also being associated with differing radio wave characteristics; and separating the intermediate further signals into separate signals; changing the frequency of the further signals to provide further signals at a transmission frequency; and transmitting the further signals via the two signal pathways.