Wireless Frequency Shifting for Building Coverage Bridging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless technologies have limited coverage in building environments due to obstacles, requiring multiple access points and complex, costly infrastructure for reliable communication, and existing methods for using power lines as a backbone are inefficient and unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for frequency shifting wireless signals using I/Q demodulation and modulation to reconstruct signals in a distinct frequency band, allowing for bi-directional communication and increased coverage without the need for complex hardware or infrastructure, utilizing existing components and minimizing parts count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple access points are deployed to extend wireless coverage in building environments, then network coverage is improved, but device complexity and infrastructure cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces frequency shifters as intermediary devices that convert wireless signals to different frequency bands, allowing signals to pass through obstacles and extend coverage without requiring multiple access points. The frequency shifter acts as a mediator that transforms the signal into a form that can traverse building structures more effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the frequency parameter of wireless signals by using frequency shifters to convert signals between different frequency bands (e.g., 2.4 GHz to 5 GHz or vice versa). This parameter change allows the signal to penetrate obstacles better and extend coverage area without adding complex infrastructure.
2Ease of manufacture
If power lines are used as a backbone for wireless communication, then infrastructure cost is reduced, but signal performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses frequency shifters as intermediary devices between the power line medium and the wireless signal, transforming the signal to frequency bands that are less susceptible to interference from power line noise and electrical disturbances, thereby improving signal performance while still using the cost-effective power line infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the frequency parameter of signals transmitted over power lines by using frequency shifters to convert to optimal frequency bands. This parameter optimization reduces the impact of power line interference and improves signal reliability while maintaining the low-cost power line backbone infrastructure.
3Speed
If traditional frequency shifting methods using mixer/filter arrangements are used, then frequency shifting is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex mixer and filter components from traditional frequency shifting systems. Instead of using nonlinear mixing circuits and multiple filters, the invention employs a simplified frequency shifter design that achieves the same frequency conversion function with fewer components, reducing device complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses I/Q demodulation and modulation to create a simplified frequency shifting approach that copies the essential function of traditional mixers but implements it through digital signal processing techniques rather than analog mixing circuits, thereby reducing hardware 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 approach enhances wireless network coverage by seamlessly bridging isolated areas and interconnecting wireless units over wired mediums, providing a cost-effective, reliable, and efficient solution for wireless communication, reducing latency and maintaining network performance.
Implementation Method 1
A method and system for frequency shifting wireless signals using I/Q demodulation and modulation
Implementation Method 2
A method and system for frequency shifting wireless signals using I/Q demodulation and modulation to reconstruct signals in a distinct frequency band
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods and apparatus for improving the coverage of a wireless network based on frequency shifting scheme. A wireless signal in a frequency band is shifted to another distinct band, and carried in the shifted band, using wired or wireless mediums to another location, wherein the wireless signal is shifted back to the original frequency band. The frequency shifting may make use of a conventional frequency shifting schemes such as mixer/filter and heterodyne. In one embodiment the wireless signal is frequency shifted by converting it to other representing signals (such as I/Q components) and forming the frequency-shifted signal from the representations. The system is may be used to increase in-door or outdoor coverage, as well as bridging between in-door and outdoor networks. The medium may use dedicated wiring or existing service wiring in a residence or building, including LAN, telephone, AC power and CATV wiring. The system (in whole or in part) may be enclosed as a stand-alone unit, housed in integrated form as part of a service outlet or as a snap-on/plug-in module. Methods and other systems with different advantageous configurations are also described. This abstract is not intended to limit or construe the scope or meaning of the claims.