In-building Wire Network as RF Waveguide for Signal Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in maintaining strong signal coverage within buildings due to signal attenuation and reflection by walls, floors, and other barriers, leading to connectivity issues and marginal coverage for devices farther from the wireless access point.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using an existing in-building wire network as a waveguide by connecting a radio frequency transmitter to its antenna output, allowing the RF signal to propagate through the wire network and be emitted into free air, potentially with a supplemental antenna, to extend coverage without additional cabling or cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple access points or dedicated extenders are used to extend wireless coverage, then the coverage range is improved, but the cost and device complexity increase due to additional cabling and equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing in-building wire network serve dual functions: its original purpose (data/voice transmission) and the additional function of carrying RF wireless signals. By coupling the RF transmitter to the wire network's antenna output, the wire network becomes a waveguide for RF signals, eliminating the need for separate dedicated extenders or additional cabling infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing wire network infrastructure is utilized to provide wireless signal distribution without requiring external additional systems. The wire network itself acts as the transmission medium for RF signals, leveraging its already-deployed physical presence throughout the building to extend coverage without extra cost or complexity.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple access points or dedicated extenders are used to extend wireless coverage, then the coverage range is improved, but the cost increases due to additional equipment and cabling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing in-building wire network serve dual functions: its original purpose (data/voice transmission) and the additional function of carrying RF wireless signals. By coupling the RF transmitter to the wire network's antenna output, the wire network becomes a waveguide for RF signals, eliminating the need for separate dedicated extenders or additional cabling infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing wire network infrastructure is utilized to provide wireless signal distribution without requiring external additional systems. The wire network itself acts as the transmission medium for RF signals, leveraging its already-deployed physical presence throughout the building to extend coverage without extra cost or complexity.
3Reliability
If the wireless transmitter is placed closer to receiving devices, then signal strength is improved, but the transmitter cannot serve devices throughout the entire building
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the building into multiple zones with RF signal transmission points distributed throughout. By coupling RF transmitters to wire network outlets at various locations, each segment can provide strong local signal coverage. This allows the building to be divided into multiple coverage zones, each served by a local transmitter point, thereby achieving both strong signal strength and broad coverage area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point transmitter model to a distributed multi-point system. Instead of having one transmitter trying to cover the entire building, the system distributes transmission points throughout the building structure, utilizing the wire network's physical presence at multiple locations to create a three-dimensional coverage network that provides strong signals throughout the entire building volume.
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 enhances signal strength and coverage by up to 10 dB near telephone outlets and 4 dB with a small four-wire double-dipole antenna, effectively reaching devices outside the conventional range of the wireless access point, improving connectivity and reducing signal loss.
Implementation Method 1
coupling a first end of an existing in-building wire network to the antenna output of the RF transmitter and transmitting a RF signal from the RF transmitter into the in-building wire network
Implementation Method 2
the in-building wire network operates as a waveguide
Implementation Method 3
transmitting the RF signal from a second end of the in-building wire network to free air and receiving the RF signal with one or more wireless devices
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems of distributing a radio frequency (RF) signal to a wireless device. The methods and systems include providing a RF transmitter having an antenna output, coupling a first end of an existing in-building wire network to the antenna output and transmitting a RF signal from the RF transmitter into the in-building wire network such that the in-building wire network operates as a waveguide. The methods and systems further include transmitting the RF signal from a second end of the in-building wire network to free air and receiving the RF signal with one or more wireless devices.