Radio access nodes colocated with air conditioning units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless network operators face challenges in deploying small cell radios due to difficulties in obtaining attachment, power, and backhaul requirements in a timely and cost-effective manner, particularly as the demand for network capacity increases with growing data consumption.
Innovation Solution
Integrating small cell radios into window air conditioning units, which provide optimal locations for attachment, power, and backhaul, using removable cartridges, advanced antenna technologies, and various power sources, including solar panels, to facilitate network capacity expansion while preventing interference and resonance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If small cell radios are deployed to increase network capacity, then network capacity increases, but deployment complexity and cost increase due to difficulty in obtaining attachment, power, and backhaul requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the small cell radio with the window air conditioning unit into a single integrated device. The radio is mounted on or inside the AC unit, which already has power supply and strategic placement, thereby merging two functions (cooling and wireless communication) into one deployment platform. This eliminates the need for separate attachment, power, and backhaul infrastructure for the radio.
Solution Approach 2:
The window air conditioning unit serves multiple functions: it provides cooling while simultaneously serving as a mounting platform, power source, and strategic location for the small cell radio. This multi-functional approach allows the AC unit to fulfill multiple deployment requirements (attachment, power, backhaul) that would otherwise require separate infrastructure components.
2Productivity
If small cell radios are deployed in optimal locations to increase capacity, then network capacity increases, but interference and resonance problems occur due to AC unit vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies vibration damping elements and shock absorption mechanisms to the radio mounting structure before vibrations can cause interference or resonance. By pre-installing these protective elements, the system proactively counteracts the harmful effects of AC unit vibrations, preventing signal instability rather than reacting to it afterward.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces vibration isolation mounts and damping materials as intermediary elements between the AC unit structure and the radio. These intermediaries absorb and dissipate vibrations, preventing them from reaching the radio and causing interference or resonance, thereby protecting signal stability.
3Area of stationary object
If traditional macro cells are used to cover large areas, then coverage area increases, but network capacity remains limited compared to small cells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the network into multiple small cell segments distributed throughout the service area, each providing localized high-capacity coverage. Instead of one large macro cell, numerous small cells mounted on AC units create a segmented network architecture that achieves both area coverage and high capacity through frequency reuse and distributed connectivity.
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
Enhances network capacity by enabling efficient deployment of small cells with reduced interference and resonance, allowing for concurrent operation on multiple frequency bands and self-organization of networks, while providing real-time data and RF planning assistance.
Implementation Method 1
The AC unit collocated with the small cell (together the 'AC/SC') receives backhaul from a variety of possible sources and then transmits a signal either inside or outside the residence
Implementation Method 2
The small cell radio may be passively or actively protected against the vibrations when the AC unit is operating in order to prevent resonance or destructive interference
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless communication system includes an electrically powered window mounted air conditioning unit including a power cord attachable to an electrically powered wall outlet. A small cell wireless communication device is attached to or located within the electrically powered window mounted air conditioning unit. The small cell wireless communication device is configured to be powered through the power cord of the electrically powered window mounted air conditioning unit. The small cell wireless communication device includes at least one antenna for receiving and transmitting wireless information. The small cell wireless communication device is configured to communicate with a nearby wireless data communication router, wherein the wireless data communication router is configured to provide backhaul communication capabilities for the small cell wireless communication device. The small cell wireless communication device is configured to provide wireless communication capabilities for mobile wireless communication devices.