Waveguide Coupler Launching Guided Electromagnetic Waves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless infrastructure faces challenges in providing sufficient bandwidth to meet increasing data demands, particularly in urban areas with high usage of smartphones and portable devices, as traditional macrocells struggle to keep pace with demand, and existing systems require higher bandwidth capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A guided wave communication system that uses electromagnetic waves to propagate along transmission media such as wires, without requiring an electrical return path, utilizing couplers to launch and receive guided electromagnetic waves, allowing for efficient data transmission over long distances with reduced loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional macrocell wireless infrastructure is used to provide bandwidth, then coverage area is large, but bandwidth capability is insufficient to meet increasing data demands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the transmission function by separating the electromagnetic wave generation from the electrical circuit requirements. The waveguide device creates electromagnetic waves that propagate along existing transmission media without requiring complete electrical circuit loops, effectively segmenting the bandwidth enhancement function from traditional cellular infrastructure constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary waveguide coupling device that bridges the gap between electromagnetic wave transmission and existing transmission media. This coupler acts as a mediator to launch guided electromagnetic waves onto power lines or other conductors without requiring traditional electrical return paths, enabling bandwidth expansion through existing infrastructure
2Productivity
If electromagnetic waves are coupled onto transmission media using traditional methods, then electrical circuits are established, but electrical safety hazards and regulatory compliance issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of electromagnetic wave propagation from the constraint of requiring complete electrical circuits. By taking out the return path requirement, the system achieves data transmission through electromagnetic waves guided along conductors without establishing hazardous electrical circuits, eliminating electrical safety hazards while maintaining transmission efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the electrical circuit mechanism with an electromagnetic wave guidance mechanism. Instead of relying on electrical current flow through complete circuits, the system uses electromagnetic waves guided by transmission media, replacing the electrical mechanism with a field-based mechanism that avoids electrical safety hazards
3Productivity
If guided electromagnetic waves are used for data transmission, then bandwidth capability increases, but coupling efficiency and wave launch effectiveness must be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing the waveguide coupling device with specific geometric characteristics tailored to the transmission medium. The coupler's dimensions, shape, and positioning are locally optimized to match the characteristics of power lines or other conductors, maximizing coupling efficiency without requiring complex system-wide modifications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by adjusting the coupling device's physical parameters (dimensions, orientation, position) to optimize electromagnetic wave launch efficiency. By changing these parameters, the system achieves effective coupling between the waveguide and transmission media, enhancing bandwidth capability while managing device complexity
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 solution enables efficient data transmission with reduced propagation loss, supporting higher bandwidth requirements without the need for electrical return paths, thus enhancing wireless communication capabilities in densely populated areas.
Implementation Method 1
A coupling device is presented for use in a transmission device, such as transmission device 101 or 102... The coupling device can include an arc coupler 704... When the transmitter 712 generates a transmission, the transmission can induce an electromagnetic wave 708 that propagates along a transmission medium 702
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, a coupler having a base for coupling to a transmission medium, and a plurality of members extending from the base. A distal end of each member of the plurality of members can be separated from an outer surface of the transmission medium. A transmitter coupled to the base can facilitate transmission of signals via the plurality of members. The transmission of signals can induce electromagnetic waves that propagate along the transmission medium without requiring an electrical return path. Other embodiments are disclosed.