Self-Contained Wireless Pods for Stadium Data Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Many older sports and entertainment venues lack the necessary wireless data communications infrastructure to support large-scale access to live video and data on handheld devices, and some venues require only temporary installations of such capabilities.
Innovation Solution
Self-contained wireless data communication system nodes, including wireless access points and repeaters with integrated antennae, rechargeable power sources, and optional solar cells, can be deployed as stand-alone pods or embedded in concrete walkways and walls to provide video and data access to handheld devices within public venues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wireless data communications infrastructure is installed in older entertainment venues, then video and data access for handheld devices is enabled, but installation complexity and infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication infrastructure is divided into discrete, self-contained nodes that can be independently deployed. Each node functions as an autonomous unit with integrated power, communication, and antenna components, allowing incremental installation without requiring venue-wide infrastructure overhaul.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless communication nodes are designed as multi-functional units that combine access point functionality, power management, and antenna elements in a single device. This universal design allows the same node type to serve multiple purposes and be deployed in various venue configurations without requiring specialized infrastructure.
2Loss of time
If temporary wireless installations are used for special events, then deployment time and cost are reduced, but reliability and coverage consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless nodes are pre-configured with standardized settings, power sources, and antenna configurations before deployment. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid installation at events while maintaining consistent performance characteristics, as each node arrives ready-to-deploy with optimized settings already in place.
Solution Approach 2:
The nodes incorporate adjustable power output and antenna beamforming parameters that can be optimized for different venue sizes and event types. This parameter flexibility allows the same hardware platform to maintain reliable coverage whether deployed temporarily for a small event or permanently in a large venue.
3Ease of operation
If self-contained nodes with power sources are deployed, then installation flexibility and mobility are improved, but energy consumption and power management complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The nodes utilize periodic power management strategies including sleep modes during low-activity periods and wakeful operation during high-demand events. The system monitors traffic patterns and adjusts power consumption accordingly, maintaining operational flexibility while reducing average energy usage through cyclical active and inactive states.
Solution Approach 2:
The nodes incorporate autonomous power management capabilities that monitor their own energy levels, adjust transmission power accordingly, and prioritize essential functions when power is limited. This self-service approach to power management reduces the need for external power infrastructure while maintaining operational flexibility.
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
These nodes establish a reliable and extended wireless communication network, enabling seamless video and data access for spectators, even in areas with RF attenuation, and can be temporarily or permanently installed with minimal aesthetic and spatial impact, addressing the infrastructure gaps in older venues.
Implementation Method 1
each communications pod can further include a solar cell providing an electrical power to charge the rechargeable power source contained in the pod
Data Source
AI summary
A system supports communications of video and data to hand held devices located within a public venue (e.g., sports stadium). At least one pod includes wireless communications electronics and an integrated antennae deployed as a communications node within the public venue and provides data including video through a data network from at least one server to hand held wireless devices located in the public venue. The pod can include a rechargeable power source sustaining self-contained operation of the wireless communication electronics. An optional solar cell can provide electrical power to charge the rechargeable power source. A pod can be embedded in the wall or floor surface of said public venue and can be provided in the form of a core hole plug.