Surface Marker Network for Continuous Mobile Data Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile devices face limitations in accessing broadband data services while moving due to the limited coverage area of WiFi hotspots, which inhibits continuous data transfer and connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A system of spaced surface markers with solar-powered wireless transceivers that communicate with each other and with mobile devices, providing a network connection to enable continuous data transfer and broadband access across a travel surface, such as a road, by forming a network of small cell data expansion reflectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If WiFi hotspots are used for mobile data access, then data transfer rate and power usage are improved, but coverage area is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the coverage area into multiple segments by deploying multiple small cell data expansion reflectors along the travel surface. Each reflector provides a localized WiFi hotspot coverage zone, and collectively they form an extended continuous coverage network that allows mobile devices to maintain connectivity as they move between locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The small cell data expansion reflectors act as intermediary devices between the central office equipment and mobile devices. These reflectors receive data signals from the central office and retransmit them to mobile devices, extending the effective coverage area while maintaining high data transfer rates and low power consumption characteristics of WiFi technology.
2Area of stationary object
If cellular data networks are used for wider coverage, then coverage area is improved, but data transfer rate and power usage are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by deploying small cell data expansion reflectors that provide high-speed WiFi connectivity in specific local areas along the travel surface. Instead of relying on low-speed cellular networks for all locations, the system creates localized zones of high-quality data transmission where mobile devices can access broadband services at higher speeds when within range of the reflectors.
3Use of energy by moving object
If traditional WiFi hotspots are used, then power usage is reduced, but connectivity is lost when moving between locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures continuous connectivity by positioning multiple small cell data expansion reflectors at spaced intervals along the travel surface. As mobile devices move between locations, they continuously transition from one reflector's coverage zone to the next, maintaining uninterrupted WiFi connectivity throughout the journey. This eliminates the connectivity gaps that occur when moving between traditional isolated hotspots.
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
Enables continuous mobile broadband data access and location information sharing for vehicles, improving connectivity and data transfer efficiency by extending the coverage area and maintaining connections even as devices move between traditional WiFi hotspots.
Implementation Method 1
a power system within the housing producing electrical power from solar energy or vibration
Implementation Method 2
a power system within the housing producing electrical power from solar energy or vibration
Data Source
AI summary
In a system of spaced surface markers disposed on a travel surface, each surface marker includes a housing, a power system within the housing producing electrical power from solar energy or vibration, and wireless transceiver(s) within the housing wirelessly communicating with neighboring surface markers. One surface marker relays data from and to another, while a third surface marker relays data from and to a network connection to a remote network. All surface markers may communicate via WiFi. The travel surface may be for vehicles. Each surface marker may communication with a vehicle or mobile device within communication range, to provide location or other information.