U.S. patent application number 15/486882 was filed with the patent office on 2018-10-18 for mobile hotspot system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Verizon Patent and Licensing Inc.. Invention is credited to Kevin Gerard BRENNAN, Nolan ENG, Yuk Lun LI, Paul R. MCDONOUGH, Ai MITSUFUJI, Nicole WINSTON.
Application Number | 20180301793 15/486882 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 63790967 |
Filed Date | 2018-10-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180301793 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MITSUFUJI; Ai ; et
al. |
October 18, 2018 |
MOBILE HOTSPOT SYSTEM
Abstract
A device can include a first ground element to be electrically
connected to a module including a cellular antenna. The first
ground element and the module can be stackable. The cellular
antenna can have a first ground plane provided by a second ground
element included in the module. The first ground element can
provide a second ground plane for the cellular antenna when the
first ground element is electrically connected to the cellular
antenna. The second ground plane can be larger than the first
ground plane. Radio performance of the cellular antenna with regard
to a cellular network is enhanced when the cellular antenna is
electrically connected to the first ground element based on the
second ground plane.
Inventors: |
MITSUFUJI; Ai; (Sunnyvale,
CA) ; BRENNAN; Kevin Gerard; (Metuchen, NJ) ;
LI; Yuk Lun; (Morganville, NJ) ; WINSTON; Nicole;
(San Francisco, CA) ; ENG; Nolan; (Foothill Ranch,
CA) ; MCDONOUGH; Paul R.; (Marlboro, NJ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Verizon Patent and Licensing Inc. |
Arlington |
VA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
63790967 |
Appl. No.: |
15/486882 |
Filed: |
April 13, 2017 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01Q 1/241 20130101;
H05K 5/0021 20130101; H01Q 1/007 20130101; H01Q 21/28 20130101;
H01Q 1/42 20130101; H01Q 1/2291 20130101; H01Q 1/246 20130101; H01Q
9/42 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H01Q 1/24 20060101
H01Q001/24; H01Q 1/48 20060101 H01Q001/48 |
Claims
1. A device, comprising: a first module to provide a wireless
network, where the first module includes one or more cellular
antennas; a second module; and a first ground element to be
electrically connected to the first module and to be connected to
the second module, where the first module, the second module, and
the first ground element are stackable, where the one or more
cellular antennas have a first ground plane provided by a second
ground element included in the first module, where the first ground
element is to provide a second ground plane for the one or more
cellular antennas when the first ground element is electrically
connected to the one or more cellular antennas, where the second
ground plane is larger than the first ground plane, and where radio
performance of the one or more cellular antennas with regard to a
cellular network is enhanced when the one or more cellular antennas
are electrically connected to the first ground element based on the
second ground plane.
2. The device of claim 1, where the radio performance of the one or
more cellular antennas is further enhanced with regard to the
cellular network when the one or more cellular antennas are
electrically connected to the first ground element and the one or
more cellular antennas are located a predetermined distance from
the second ground plane.
3. The device of claim 2, where the one or more cellular antennas
are located the predetermined distance from the second ground plane
when the first module is mounted on the second module and the
second module is mounted on the first ground element.
4. The device of claim 1, where the first module includes a first
interface, where the second module includes a battery and a second
interface, and where the second module is to provide power to the
first module via an electrical connection between the first
interface and the second interface.
5. The device of claim 4, where the electrical connection is a
first electrical connection, the second module includes a third
interface, and the device further comprises: a third module, where
the third module includes an electronic device and a fourth
interface, and where the third module is to provide information
associated with the electronic device to the first module via the
first electrical connection between the first interface and the
second interface and a second electrical connection between the
third interface and the fourth interface.
6. The device of claim 1, where the first module includes a first
interface, where the second module includes an electronic device
and a second interface, and where the second module is to provide
information associated with the electronic device to the first
module via an electrical connection between the first interface and
the second interface.
7. A device, comprising: a module including one or more cellular
antennas; and a first ground element to be electrically connected
to the module, where the first ground element and the module are
stackable, where the one or more cellular antennas have a first
ground plane provided by a second ground element included in the
module, where the first ground element is to provide a second
ground plane for the one or more cellular antennas when the first
ground element is electrically connected to the one or more
cellular antennas, where the second ground plane is larger than the
first ground plane, and where radio performance of the one or more
cellular antennas with regard to a cellular network is enhanced
when the one or more cellular antennas are electrically connected
to the first ground element based on the second ground plane.
8. The device of claim 7, where the module includes a housing,
where the one or more cellular antennas include at least two
cellular antennas, and where the at least two cellular antennas are
located in the housing.
9. The device of claim 7, where the one or more cellular antennas
include a longitudinal axis, where the longitudinal axis is aligned
approximately in parallel with the second ground plane when the one
or more cellular antennas are electrically connected to the first
ground element.
10. The device of claim 7, where the module has a cylindrical
shape, and where the module has a diameter that is between
approximately 65 mm and approximately 70 mm.
11. The device of claim 7, where the module includes an interface
to receive power, data, or a combination thereof.
12. The device of claim 7, where the first ground element includes
a post that is conductive, where the module includes a channel in a
side surface of the module, where a size and shape of the channel
is complimentary to a size and shape of the post, and where the
channel includes one or more electrical contacts to electrically
connect the one or more cellular antennas to the first ground
element via the post.
13. The device of claim 12, where the post includes one or more
protrusions, where the channel includes one or more recesses that
are complimentary to the one or more protrusions, and where the one
or more protrusions are to engage with the one or more recesses to
hold the module with respect to the first ground element.
14. A device, comprising: a first ground element to be electrically
connected to a module including a cellular antenna, where the first
ground element and the module are stackable, where the cellular
antenna has a first ground plane provided by a second ground
element included in the module, where the first ground element is
to provide a second ground plane for the cellular antenna when the
first ground element is electrically connected to the cellular
antenna, where the second ground plane is larger than the first
ground plane, and where radio performance of the cellular antenna
with regard to a cellular network is enhanced when the cellular
antenna is electrically connected to the first ground element based
on the second ground plane.
15. The device of claim 14, further comprising the module, where
the module is to provide a wireless network, and where the module
includes the cellular antenna and one or more electrical contacts
that electrically connect the cellular antenna to the first ground
element.
16. The device of claim 15, where the first ground element includes
a post, and where the one or more electrical contacts are to
electrically connect the cellular antenna to the first ground
element via the post.
17. The device of claim 14, where the first ground element is
electrically connected to the second ground element when the
cellular antenna is electrically connected to the first ground
element.
18. The device of claim 14, where the first ground element includes
a base section, where the base section of the first ground element
includes at least one gap, and where the at least one gap is to
enhance resonance associated with a radio signal received by the
cellular antenna when the module is electrically connected to the
first ground element.
19. The device of claim 14, where the first ground element includes
a post and a base section, where the post extends away from the
base section, where the post includes one or more protrusions, and
where the one or more protrusions include a conductive spring
pin.
20. The device of claim 19, where the base section includes a
conductive section and a non-conductive section, where the
conductive section includes one or more gaps, and where a portion
of the non-conductive section is located within the one or more
gaps.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] A mobile hotspot is an ad hoc wireless access point that is
created by a dedicated hardware device or a smartphone feature that
shares the smartphone's cellular data. A mobile hotspot is also
known as a portable hotspot. A hardware device used to create a
mobile hotspot, which can be called a pocket router or a travel
router, can be referred to as a mobile hotspot as well. The device
can access cellular signals (e.g., 3G, 4G, etc.) and convert the
cellular signals to Wi-Fi and vice versa, creating a mobile Wi-Fi
network that can be shared by multiple users within about 10 meters
of the device.
[0002] The Internet of things (IoT) is the internetworking of
physical devices, vehicles (sometimes referred to as "connected
devices" and "smart devices"), buildings, and other items that are
embedded with electronics, software, sensors, actuators, and
network connectivity that enable these physical devices to collect
and exchange data. The IoT allows the physical devices to be sensed
and/or controlled remotely across network infrastructure, creating
opportunities for more direct integration of the physical world
into computer-based systems, which results in improved efficiency,
accuracy, and economic benefit along with reduced human
intervention.
[0003] A mobile hotspot offers opportunities for the advancement of
the IoT by allowing for connectivity of devices, such as mobile
devices.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] FIGS. 1A and 1B are diagrams of an overview of an example
implementation described herein;
[0005] FIG. 2 is a diagram of an example environment in which
systems and/or methods, described herein, can be implemented;
[0006] FIG. 3 is a diagram of example components of one or more
devices of FIG. 2;
[0007] FIGS. 4A-4E are diagrams of an example implementation of a
mobile hotspot system;
[0008] FIG. 5 is a diagram of an example implementation of a ground
element of the mobile hotspot system shown in FIGS. 4A-4E; and
[0009] FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams of an example implementation of
a mobile hotspot system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0010] The following detailed description of example
implementations refers to the accompanying drawings. The same
reference numbers in different drawings can identify the same or
similar elements.
[0011] A mobile hotspot can provide access to a data network (e.g.,
the Internet) to a device connected to a wireless local area
network (WLAN) provided by the mobile hotspot. The mobile hotspot
accesses the data network based on the mobile hotspot's connection
to a cellular network. Accordingly, a mobile hotspot can offer an
alternative way to access a data network compared to a network
device that can connected to hardwiring (e.g., wireless access
points, cable routers, etc.) in a building. For example, where data
network access using a cable line is prohibitively expensive or has
poor performance, a user can employ a mobile hotspot associated
with a wireless cellular service provider that is more affordable
and/or performs more favorably. Further, a mobile hotspot can
provide a user with privacy that is not available with public WLAN
networks (e.g., Wi-Fi internet access at hotels, shops, etc.). For
example, a user can adjust privacy settings on the mobile hotspot
so that wireless network access is password protected.
[0012] A mobile hotspot can also use a battery as a power source so
that the mobile hotspot does not need to be plugged into a power
source. Further, the ability of a mobile hotspot to connect to a
cellular network can be based on the size and configuration of a
cellular antenna that is part of the mobile hotspot. For example,
as the size and shape of a mobile hotspot is made smaller to
increase portability and decrease the amount of space occupied by
the mobile hotspot, the performance of a cellular antenna in the
mobile hotspot can also decrease because of the smaller size of the
cellular antenna. The size and shape of the mobile hotspot can
allow the mobile hotspot to be carried by a user so that, in
combination with the battery power source, the mobile hotspot is
portable and can provide a user with mobility.
[0013] However, a mobile hotspot can have limited range for
connecting to a cellular network. As mentioned, the performance of
a cellular antenna, of a mobile hotspot, can be reduced based on
the form factor of the mobile hotspot and, as a result, the mobile
hotspot might be limited in terms of geographic locations for
connecting to a cellular network. A mobile hotspot can also have
limited useable life based on a capacity of the battery of the
mobile hotspot. The battery capacity can limit the amount of time
that the mobile hotspot can be used in a portable fashion before
the battery must be replaced or recharged. In addition, a mobile
hotspot can be of a large size that impedes the portability of the
mobile hotspot so that the mobile hotspot cannot be carried easily
by a user. For example, a mobile hotspot can be too big and heavy
to fit comfortably in a user's pocket or in a carrying case.
Furthermore, a mobile hotspot might not offer opportunities to
connect a device for wireless network access to the mobile hotspot
based on an electrical connection (e.g., a physical connection
between two points through which electricity is conducted, a wired
connection, a hard connection, etc.). As a wireless network
connection might not be suitable or reliable enough for the device,
the wireless network connection can limit the devices that can be
used with the mobile hotspot. Additionally, a mobile hotspot might
not offer opportunities for connecting another device in a modular
fashion so that the mobile hotspot and the device can be easily
positioned and connected with respect to each other.
[0014] Implementations described herein provide a mobile hotspot
system that can include a cellular access point with a housing
having a disk shape and one or more antennas located inside the
housing. In addition, implementations described herein provide a
ground element that has an annular shape and that can connect to
the cellular access point to provide a larger ground plane for the
one or more antennas of the cellular access point as compared to a
ground plane that is present when the cellular access point is
disconnected from the ground element. The size and shape of the
cellular access point and the ground element can be structured so
that the cellular access point and the ground element are modular
for easy construction and/or flexible arrangement of mobile hotspot
system.
[0015] In some implementations, one or more additional devices can
be included that can have a shape that is complementary to the
shape of the ground element and/or the cellular access point so
that the one or more additional devices are modular relative to the
other components of the mobile hotspot system. The one or more
additional devices can also be connected to the cellular access
point via an electrical connection. For example, a battery module
that corresponds to the size and shape of the cellular access point
can be positioned between the cellular access point and the ground
element. The battery module can also be connected to the cellular
access point via electrical contacts to provide power to the
cellular access point.
[0016] In some implementations, the one or more additional devices
can provide and/or receive information via access to a data network
provided by the cellular access point. Additionally, the size and
shape of the cellular access point and the ground element can make
the cellular access point, the ground element, and/or the
combination of the cellular access point and ground element
combination portable, as described in more detail below. In some
implementations, the size and shape of the cellular access point
can also allow for the cellular access point to be attached to a
vehicle (e.g., a drone, an automobile, etc.) or carried by a person
(e.g., by attaching via a belt clip, lanyard, etc.).
[0017] In this way, the mobile hotspot system can provide access to
a data network based on enhanced performance of an antenna. The
mobile hotspot system can also provide portability and modularity
of the components of the mobile hotspot system. For example, the
ground element can act as an antenna booster for the cellular
access point and the cellular access point can have a greater range
for accessing one or more devices of a cellular network.
Additionally, the size and shape of the ground element and the
cellular access point can allow the ground element and the cellular
access point to be easily positioned and connected with respect to
each other. Additional devices can also be connected to the
cellular access point to provide aspects of modularity, improve
performance, and provide portability based on those additional
devices. For example, a battery module can be easily positioned and
connected to the cellular access point to extend the useable life
of the cellular access point while also allowing the cellular
access point to be portable. Additional devices can also be
connected to the cellular access point to provide increased
functionality based on those additional devices. In some
implementations, the additional devices can include a camera, a
speaker, a projector, and/or a sensor. Furthermore, the cellular
access point can provide access to a data network for the
additional devices based on an electrical connection with the
cellular access point where the access might not be possible
without using the electrical connection to the cellular access
point.
[0018] FIGS. 1A and 1B are diagrams of an overview of example
implementation 100 described herein. FIG. 1A shows user device 110
connected to wireless local area network (WLAN) 120 provided by
mobile hotspot 130. Mobile hotspot 130 is configured to provide
user device 110 with access to a cellular network associated with
base station 140. However, as shown in FIG. 1A, base station 140 is
located at a distance d.sub.1 away from mobile hotspot 130 and
distance d.sub.2 is the range of the cellular signal provided by
mobile hotspot 130. Since d.sub.1 is greater than d.sub.2, base
station 140 is outside the range of the cellular signal from mobile
hotspot 130 and user device 110 cannot access the cellular network
provided by base station 140. When base station 140 is outside the
range of the cellular signal from mobile hotspot 130, base station
140 might not receive the cellular signal or base station 140 can
receive the cellular signal but the quality of the cellular signal
is so poor that the cellular signal is unusable by base station
140. When base station 140 is within range of the cellular signal
of mobile hotspot 130, base station 140 can receive a good quality
signal from mobile hotspot 130. The range of mobile hotspot 130 can
be based on an inbuilt cellular antenna of the mobile hotspot 130
that is limited in performance by a form factor of mobile hotspot
130.
[0019] FIG. 1B shows that mobile hotspot 130 has been replaced by
cellular access point 150 that is connected with device module 160
and ground element 170. Cellular access point 150, device module
160, and ground element 170 will be collectively referred to as a
mobile hotspot system 180.
[0020] The range of a cellular signal transmitted by cellular
access point 150 is extended when cellular access point 150 is
electrically connected to device module 160 and ground element 170.
The range of cellular access point 150 is based on a ground plane
provided by ground element 170 that reflects radio signals
transmitted by an antenna of cellular access point 150. The range
of cellular access point 150 can also be based on the space between
cellular access point 150 and ground element 170 that is provided
by device module 160.
[0021] As shown in FIG. 1B, the range of the cellular signal of
cellular access point 150 is shown as distance d.sub.3 and cellular
access point 150 is located at a distance d.sub.1 from base station
140. The distance d.sub.1 shown in FIG. 1B is the same as the
distance between mobile hotspot 130 and base station 140 shown in
FIG. 1A. As shown in FIG. 1B, since the range of the cellular
signal, d.sub.3, provided by cellular access point 150 is greater
than d.sub.1, user device 110 has access to the cellular network
associated with base station 140. While device module 160 can
provide an amount of space between cellular access point 150 and
ground element 170 to enhance a cellular signal transmitted by
cellular access point 150, device module 160 can also provide
additional functionality. In some implementations, device module
160 can include a battery to provide power to cellular access point
150. In some implementations, device module 160 can include a
camera, a speaker, or a projector. For example, device module 160
can include a camera that broadcasts a video stream via the
cellular network and to the Internet for access via the
Internet.
[0022] In this way, cellular access point 150 can provide a
cellular signal that has an extended range when cellular access
point 150 is electrically connected to ground element 170 as
compared to when cellular access point 150 is not electrically
connected to ground element 170. Furthermore, the performance of
cellular access point can be enhanced based on a space between
cellular access point 150 and ground element 170. In some
implementations, that space is provided when device module 160 is
located between cellular access point 150 and ground element 170.
In addition, cellular access point 150 can have an extended useable
life and increased portability based on device module 160 providing
a battery as a power source to cellular access point 150.
Additionally, device module 160 can provide additional devices that
allow a user to provide information via a cellular network and a
data network, such as the Internet.
[0023] As indicated above, FIGS. 1A and 1B are provided merely as
an example. Other examples are possible and can differ from what
was described with regard to FIGS. 1A and 1B.
[0024] FIG. 2 is a diagram of an example environment 200 in which
systems and/or methods, described herein, can be implemented. As
shown in FIG. 2, environment 200 can include cellular access point
210, device module 220, ground element 230, user device 250, WLAN
network 260, base station 270, and cellular network 280. As shown
in FIG. 2, mobile hotspot system 240 is made up of cellular access
point 210, device module 220, and/or ground element 230 connected
together. Devices of environment 200 can interconnect via wired
connections, wireless connections, or a combination of wired and
wireless connections.
[0025] Cellular access point 210 includes a device capable of
providing access to a cellular network, such as cellular network
280 (e.g., a 4G network, a Long Term Evolution (LTE) network, an
LTE advanced network, a 5G network, etc.), and functioning as a
mobile hotspot, a home connectivity device, and/or a home network
device. In some implementations, cellular access point 210 can be
configured to operate as a router, a gateway, a modem, or the like.
In some implementations, cellular access point 210 can connect one
or more devices (e.g., user device 250) to the Internet and/or a
cellular network based on a wireless network (e.g., WLAN network
260) provided by cellular access point 210. For example, cellular
access point 210 can include a wireless access point that provides
the wireless network. In some implementations, cellular access
point 210 can correspond to cellular access point 150 shown in FIG.
1B.
[0026] Device module 220 includes one or more devices that are
capable of connecting to cellular access point 210 using an
electrical connection. In some implementations, device module 220
can include one or more components to perform a function based on
an interaction with a user, user device 250, and/or cellular access
point 210. In some implementations, device module 220 can include
an Internet of Things (IoT) device or functionality associated with
an IoT device. For example, device module 220 can include a
battery, a camera, a projector, a speaker, a radio, a display
device, a radio transceiver, a smart home device, a controller, a
sensor, a health monitor, a personal information manager (PIM)
device, an intelligent personal assistant (IPA) device, a network
diagnostics device, or the like. In some implementations, device
module 220 can correspond to device module 160 shown in FIG.
1B.
[0027] Ground element 230 includes a passive electronic element
that is capable of electrically connecting to cellular access point
210 and providing a ground plane for the antenna(s) of cellular
access point 210 to enhance radio performance of the antenna(s). A
passive electronic element is referred to as being "passive" since
the passive electronic element cannot control voltage or current in
a circuit (e.g., a circuit in cellular access point 210). Ground
element 230 can provide a ground plane that is larger than the
ground plane of cellular access point 210 that is present when
cellular access point 210 is not connected to ground element 230.
In some implementations, ground element 230 can correspond to
ground element 170 shown in FIG. 1B.
[0028] In some implementations, mobile hotspot system 240 includes
cellular access point 210 and ground element 230. In some
implementations, mobile hotspot system 240 includes cellular access
point 210, device module 220, and ground element 230. In some
implementations, mobile hotspot system 240 includes cellular access
point 210, multiple device modules 220, and ground element 230.
Mobile hotspot system 240 is capable of performing functions based
on cellular access point 210, device module 220, and/or ground
element 230. In some implementations, mobile hotspot system 240 can
correspond to mobile hotspot system 180 shown in FIG. 1B.
[0029] User device 250 includes one or more devices capable of
receiving information from and/or providing information to cellular
access point 210 via a wireless network (e.g., WLAN network 260).
For example, user device 250 can include a communication and/or
computing device, such as a mobile device (e.g., a smart phone, a
radiotelephone, etc.), a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a
handheld computer, a desktop computer, a gaming device, a wearable
communication device (e.g., a smart wristwatch, a pair of smart
eyeglasses, etc.), or a similar type of device. In some
implementations, user device 250 can correspond to user device 110
shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B.
[0030] WLAN network 260 includes a wireless local area network
(WLAN), an ad hoc network, a Wi-Fi network, and/or a combination of
these or other types of wireless networks. In some implementations,
WLAN network 260 can correspond to WLAN network 120 shown in FIGS.
1A and 1B.
[0031] Base station 270 includes one or more devices capable of
transferring traffic, such as audio, video, text, and/or other
traffic, destined for and/or received from user device 250 and/or
device module 220 via cellular access point 210 and cellular
network 280. Base station 270 can send traffic to and/or receive
traffic from user device 250 and/or device module 220 via an air
interface (e.g., a radio frequency (RF) signal). In some
implementations, base station 270 can include a small cell base
station, such as a base station of a microcell, a picocell, and/or
a femtocell. In some implementations, base station 270 can
correspond to base station 140 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B.
[0032] Cellular network 280 includes a cellular network, such as a
long-term evolution (LTE) network, a code division multiple access
(CDMA) network, a 3G network, a 4G network, a 5G network, a next
generation network (NGN), and/or a combination of these or other
types of cellular networks.
[0033] The number and arrangement of devices and networks shown in
FIG. 2 are provided as an example. In practice, there can be
additional devices and/or networks, fewer devices and/or networks,
different devices and/or networks, or differently arranged devices
and/or networks than those shown in FIG. 2. Furthermore, two or
more devices shown in FIG. 2 can be implemented within a single
device, or a single device shown in FIG. 2 can be implemented as
multiple, distributed devices. Additionally, or alternatively, a
set of devices (e.g., one or more devices) of environment 200 can
perform one or more functions described as being performed by
another set of devices of environment 200.
[0034] FIG. 3 is a diagram of example components of a device 300.
Device 300 can correspond to cellular access point 210, device
module 220, user device 250, and/or base station 270. In some
implementations, cellular access point 210, device module 220, user
device 250, and/or base station 270 can include one or more devices
300 and/or one or more components of device 300. As shown in FIG.
3, device 300 can include a bus 310, a processor 320, a memory 330,
a storage component 340, an input component 350, an output
component 360, and a communication interface 370.
[0035] Bus 310 includes a component that permits communication
among the components of device 300. Processor 320 is implemented in
hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software.
Processor 320 is a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics
processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), a
microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor
(DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an
application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or another type of
processing component. In some implementations, processor 320
includes one or more processors capable of being programmed to
perform a function. Memory 330 includes a random access memory
(RAM), a read only memory (ROM), and/or another type of dynamic or
static storage device (e.g., a flash memory, a magnetic memory,
and/or an optical memory) that stores information and/or
instructions for use by processor 320.
[0036] Storage component 340 stores information and/or software
related to the operation and use of device 300. For example,
storage component 340 can include a hard disk (e.g., a magnetic
disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optic disk, and/or a solid state
disk), a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a
floppy disk, a cartridge, a magnetic tape, and/or another type of
non-transitory computer-readable medium, along with a corresponding
drive.
[0037] Input component 350 includes a component that permits device
300 to receive information, such as via user input (e.g., a touch
screen display, a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, a button, a switch,
and/or a microphone). Additionally, or alternatively, input
component 350 can include a sensor for sensing information (e.g., a
global positioning system (GPS) component, an accelerometer, a
gyroscope, and/or an actuator). Output component 360 includes a
component that provides output information from device 300 (e.g., a
display, a speaker, and/or one or more light-emitting diodes
(LEDs)).
[0038] Communication interface 370 includes a transceiver-like
component (e.g., a transceiver and/or a separate receiver and
transmitter) that enables device 300 to communicate with other
devices, such as via a wired connection, a wireless connection, or
a combination of wired and wireless connections. Communication
interface 370 can permit device 300 to receive information from
another device and/or provide information to another device. For
example, communication interface 370 can include an Ethernet
interface, an optical interface, a coaxial interface, an infrared
interface, a radio frequency (RF) interface, a universal serial bus
(USB) interface, a Wi-Fi interface, a cellular network interface,
or the like.
[0039] Device 300 can perform one or more processes described
herein. Device 300 can perform these processes in response to
processor 320 executing software instructions stored by a
non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as memory 330 and/or
storage component 340. A computer-readable medium is defined herein
as a non-transitory memory device. A memory device includes memory
space within a single physical storage device or memory space
spread across multiple physical storage devices.
[0040] Software instructions can be read into memory 330 and/or
storage component 340 from another computer-readable medium or from
another device via communication interface 370. When executed,
software instructions stored in memory 330 and/or storage component
340 can cause processor 320 to perform one or more processes
described herein. Additionally, or alternatively, hardwired
circuitry can be used in place of or in combination with software
instructions to perform one or more processes described herein.
Thus, implementations described herein are not limited to any
specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.
[0041] The number and arrangement of components shown in FIG. 3 are
provided as an example. In practice, device 300 can include
additional components, fewer components, different components, or
differently arranged components than those shown in FIG. 3.
Additionally, or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or
more components) of device 300 can perform one or more functions
described as being performed by another set of components of device
300.
[0042] FIGS. 4A-4E are diagrams of an example implementation of a
mobile hotspot system 240. As shown in FIG. 4A, mobile hotspot
system 240 can include cellular access point 210, device module
220, and ground element 230. In the description to follow, cellular
access point 210 and/or device module 220 can be generically
referred to as a module (singularly) or modules (collectively) of
mobile hotspot system 240. Accordingly, the size and shape of
cellular access point 210 can be the same or similar to device
module 220 and vice versa. In the description to follow, cellular
access point 210 and device module 220 will be described as having
a general cylindrical shape. In some implementations, cellular
access point 210 and/or device module 220 may have a different
geometric shape.
[0043] In some implementations, the size and shape of each of
cellular access point 210, device module 220, and ground element
230 can enable modular assembly of mobile hotspot system 240. For
example, cellular access point 210, device module 220, and/or
ground element 230 can be stackable and can be assembled in a stack
configuration of mobile hotspot system 240. In some
implementations, cellular access point 210, device module 220,
and/or ground element 230 can correspond or be complimentary in
size and shape. For example, a module can have a shape that is
complementary to the shape of ground element 230 and the shape
allows the module to fit into ground element 230. In some
implementations, cellular access point 210 and device module 220
can each connect to ground element 230 in the same or similar way
based on the physical structure of each of cellular access point
210 and device module 220.
[0044] By providing components that are modular, mobile hotspot
system 240 allows for easy assembly of components (e.g., cellular
access point 210, device module 220, and ground element 230) and
easy replacement of different components (e.g., different device
modules 220) that can save user time and effort and ensure proper
connection, and therefore proper functionality, of the components
of mobile hotspot system 240.
[0045] As further shown in FIG. 4A, cellular access point 210 can
include a housing 412. In some implementations, housing 412 can
include first surface 414, second surface 416, and one or more side
surfaces 418. In some implementations, housing 412 can be made from
a material (e.g., a polymer material, a thermoplastic polymer
material, a plastic material, a non-interfering plastic material, a
dielectric plastic material, a dielectric thermoplastic material,
etc.) that does not interfere with a cellular signal provided by
and/or received by cellular access point 210. For example, housing
412 can be made from a plastic material such as polycarbonate (PC),
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), a plastic material sold
under the trademark name PREPERM.RTM., a plastic material sold
under the trademark name PRE-ELEC.RTM., and/or the like.
[0046] In some implementations, cellular access point 210 can have
a shape based on housing 412. For example, cellular access point
210 can have a cylindrical shape. In some implementations, cellular
access point 210 can include channel 420 in the one or more side
surfaces 418 of housing 412. For example, channel 420 can be
located in side surface 418, can extend from first surface 414 to
second surface 416, and/or can include a size and/or shape to
receive a portion of ground element 230. In some implementations,
cellular access point 210 can include an indicator to provide an
indication to a user that cellular access point 210 has been
activated. For example, cellular access point 210 can include a
light on first surface 414.
[0047] As further shown in FIG. 4A, device module 220 can include
housing 432. In some implementations, housing 432 can include first
surface 434, second surface 436, and one or more side surfaces 438.
In some implementations, device module 220 can have a shape based
on housing 432. For example, device module 220 can have a
cylindrical shape. In some implementations, device module 220 can
include channel 440 in the one or more side surfaces 438 of housing
432. For example, channel 440 can be located in side surface 438,
can extend from first surface 434 to second surface 436, and/or can
include a size and/or shape to receive a portion of ground element
230. In some implementations, device module 220 can include
interface 442. In some implementations, interface 442 can include a
recessed pad (e.g., a circular pad) in first surface 434 of housing
432.
[0048] As further shown in FIG. 4A, interface 442 can include a
plurality of electrical contacts 444 (e.g., conductive surfaces,
conductive metal pieces, tabs, pads, vias, pins, spring pins,
galvanic pins, pogo pins, etc.) for providing and/or receiving
power and/or data. In some implementations, electrical contacts 444
can be configured to implement a configuration (e.g., an industry
standard, Universal Serial Bus (USB), micro USB, etc.) for
connecting electronic devices. As one particular example,
electrical contacts 444 can correspond to six USB pins, where one
pin provides a connection for power, one pin provides a connection
for ground, and the remaining four pins provide connections for
communicating data.
[0049] As further shown in FIG. 4A, ground element 230 can include
post 452 and base section 454. In some implementations, post 452
extends away from base section 454 at approximately a 90 degree
angle. In some implementations, post 452 is made from a conductive
material. In some implementations, base section 454 of ground
element 230 can include first surface 456 and second surface 458.
In some implementations, post 452 can include one or more
protrusions 466 that can provide a connection (e.g., an electrical
connection) between post 452 of ground element 230 and a module
(e.g., cellular access point 210 and/or device module 220). For
example, a pair of protrusions 466 can be included on opposite
sides of post 452 and the pair of protrusions 466 can fit into one
or more recesses in channel 420 of cellular access point 210 to
hold cellular access point 210 in place with respect to ground
element 230. In some implementations, post 452 can include a pair
of protrusions 466 for each module (e.g., cellular access point
210, a first device module 220, a second device module 220, etc.)
that is to be connected to ground element 230. In some
implementations, one or more protrusions 466 can be evenly spaced
along a length of post 452. In some implementations, one or more
protrusions 466 can include a conductive spring pin that can
retract inward towards post 452 and extend outward from post
452.
[0050] In some implementations, post 452 can be sized and
configured to expand and/or collapse. For example, post 452 can
include a first section and a second section, where the second
section can expand in a direction away from the first section to
increase in height and to allow additional device modules 220 to be
connected to post 452. In addition, the second section can collapse
in a direction towards the first section to decrease in height and
to allow fewer device modules to be connected to post 452. In some
implementations, post 452 can expand and contract based on one or
more conductive spring pins. For example, post 452 can include a
conductive spring pin that can be compressed to allow for relative
movement of a first section of post 452 and a second section of
post 452.
[0051] In some implementations, cellular access point 210 can
provide user device 250 with access to a data network (e.g., the
Internet) via WLAN network 260 and cellular network 280. For
example, cellular access point 210 can receive information from
user device 250 via WLAN network 260 and cellular access point 210
can provide the information to base station 270 via cellular
network 280. Base station 270 can provide the information to the
data network in response to cellular access point 210 providing the
information. In some implementations, cellular access point 210 can
provide connectivity to a wireless network, such as a 3G network, a
4G network, a 5G network, a CDMA network, or the like.
[0052] In some implementations, device module 220 can provide power
and/or data to cellular access point 210. For example, device
module 220 can include a battery that can provide 1800-2400 mAh of
power to cellular access point 210. In some implementations, the
battery can support more than 15 hours of useable life to cellular
access point 210. In some implementations, device module 220 can
include a component or functionality associated with a component
that receives information from a user and/or a user device 250 and
device module 220 can provide the information to a data network.
For example, device module 220 can include a personal information
manager (PIM) device that can receive a verbal instruction from a
user and carry out a task (e.g., send a communication, make an
appointment, make on online purchase, etc.) over the Internet based
on the verbal instruction of the user. In some implementations,
device module 220 can include a component or functionality
associated with a component that receives information from a data
network and device module 220 can provide the information to a
user. For example, device module 220 can include a projector that
receives video files and presents the video files for display to
the user. Additionally, or alternatively, device module 220 can
include a media player that receives video files, audio files,
and/or multimedia files, and outputs the video files, the audio
files, and/or the multimedia files for presentation to the
user.
[0053] By providing device module 220 that can provide power and/or
data to cellular access point 210 and that can include one or more
components to perform a function based on an interaction, mobile
hotspot system 240 can offer the user a wide variety of experiences
associated with device module 220. Furthermore, by providing device
module 220 that includes a battery, device module 220 can extend
the useable life of cellular access point 210 as compared to the
useable life of cellular access point 210 without the battery of
device module 220.
[0054] In some implementations, device module 220 can receive
information associated with cellular access point 210 and can
provide the information to cellular access point 210. For example,
device module 220 can receive configuration settings for cellular
access point 210 via a first interface (e.g., a USB interface) of
device module 220 that provides a connection to user device 250 and
device module 220 can provide the configuration settings to
cellular access point 210 via a second interface of device module
220 that provides a connection to cellular access point 210.
[0055] In some implementations, ground element 230 can enhance
radio performance of the antenna(s) of cellular access point 210
with regard to cellular network 280. For example, ground element
230 can increase the signal strength of a cellular signal
transmitted by the antenna(s) of cellular access point 210 and/or
ground element 230 can provide better reception of a cellular
signal directed to the antenna(s) of cellular access point 210.
Ground element 230 can enhance the radio performance by providing a
first ground plane for the antenna(s) of cellular access point 210
when cellular access point 210 is electrically connected to ground
element 230 that is larger than a second ground plane that is
associated with the antenna(s) when cellular access point 210 is
not electrically connected to ground element 230. The first ground
plane enhances the radio performance of the antenna(s) of cellular
access point 210 by providing a larger surface from which to
reflect the cellular signal provided by and/or received by the
antenna(s) of cellular access point 210.
[0056] In some implementations, the radio performance of the
antenna(s) of cellular access point 210 can be further enhanced
based on a spacing between cellular access point 210 and ground
element 230. For example, device module 220 can be located between
cellular access point 210 and ground element 230 to provide a
predetermined distance between cellular access point 210 and ground
element 230 to further enhance the radio performance. Radio
performance can be enhanced when the antenna(s) is spaced from the
first ground plane provided by ground element 230 based on the
first ground plane reflecting a larger portion of the cellular
signal provided by the antenna(s) to cellular network 280 and the
first ground plane reflecting a larger portion of the cellular
signal from cellular network 280 at the antenna(s) than when the
antenna(s) is not spaced apart from the first ground plane.
[0057] In some implementations, cellular access point 210 can
provide access to a data network (e.g., the Internet) when cellular
access point 210 is not electrically connected to ground element
230. For example, cellular access point 210 can provide access to a
data network for user device 250 based on a cellular signal from
cellular access point 210 that is provided when cellular access
point 210 is not electrically connected to ground element 230.
However, cellular access point 210 might provide the cellular
signal with less range than when cellular access point 210 is
electrically connected to ground element 230. The cellular signal
might have less range when cellular access point 210 is not
electrically connected to ground element 230 because a ground plane
associated with the antenna(s) of cellular access point 210 is
smaller than the ground plane provided by ground element 230 when
cellular access point 210 is electrically connected to ground
element 230. In some implementations, cellular access point 210 can
include a battery inside housing 412 that provides power to
circuitry for providing a cellular signal and/or a signal
associated with WLAN network 260 when cellular access point 210 is
not otherwise connected to a power source.
[0058] In some implementations, cellular access point 210 can be
attached to other mobile items (e.g., vehicles, drones, cars, etc.)
to provide access to a data network via a cellular signal from
cellular access point 210. For example, cellular access point 210
can be attached to a drone and connected to a camera of the drone
so that cellular access point 210 can provide a video stream of the
drone's flight via the data network.
[0059] As further shown in FIG. 4A, mobile hotspot system 240 can
include cellular access point 210, device module 220, and ground
element 230 in a stacked configuration. In some implementations,
channel 420 of cellular access point 210 can be complimentary to
the size and shape of post 452 of ground element 230 and post 452
can fit into channel 420. In some implementations, channel 440 of
device module 220 can be complimentary to the size and shape of
post 452 and post 452 can fit into channel 440. In some
implementations, when post 452 is located in channel 420 and post
452 is located in channel 440, second surface 416 of cellular
access point 210 can touch first surface 434 of device module 220.
In addition, second surface 436 of device module 220 can touch
first surface 456 of base section 454 of ground element 230. In
some implementations, second surface 436 of housing 432 of device
module 220 can be sized and configured to make an interference fit
with base section 454 of ground element 230. An interference fit
can be a fit between two parts in which the external dimension of
one part slightly exceeds the internal dimension of the other part
into which the part has to fit.
[0060] In some implementations, post 452 of ground element 230 can
connect with channel 420 of cellular access point 210 and/or
channel 440 of device module 220. For example, post 452 can make an
interference fit with channel 420 to hold cellular access point 210
in place with respect to ground element 230. In some
implementations, channel 420 of cellular access point 210 can
include electrical contacts (e.g., conductive surfaces, conductive
metal pieces, tabs, pads, vias, pins, spring pins, galvanic pins,
pogo pins, etc.) to make an electrical connection with post 452 of
ground element 230. For example, the electrical contacts of channel
420 can contact one or more protrusions 466 of post 452 to make an
electrical connection between cellular access point 210 and ground
element 230.
[0061] By providing electrical contacts to make an electrical
connection between cellular access point 210 and ground element
230, ground element 230 can provide a ground plane that is larger
than the ground plane that is present when cellular access point
210 is not electrically connected to ground element 230. The larger
ground plane provided by ground element 230 enhances radio
performance of the antenna(s) of cellular access point 210.
[0062] In some implementations, device module 220 can connect with
post 452 of ground element 230 but device module 220 might not make
an electrical connection with ground element 230. For example, the
housing 432 of device module 220 can make an interference fit with
post 452 and housing 432 can be made from a material that insulates
device module 220 from ground element 230. In some implementations,
housing 432 of device module 220 can electrically isolate device
module 220 from cellular access point 210 and/or ground element
230. For example, housing 432 can be made from an insulating
material that prevents the emission of electromagnetic interference
from device module 220.
[0063] By not electrically connecting with ground element 230
and/or electrically isolating device module 220, device module 220
can avoid interfering with a signal provided by cellular access
point 210 based on an electrical connection between cellular access
point 210 and ground element 230.
[0064] In some implementations, one or more device modules 220 can
be connected to device module 220. For example, a first device
module 220 that includes a battery can be connected to a second
device module 220 that includes a camera. In some implementations,
two or more device modules 220 can be connected to cellular access
point 210 simultaneously. For example, cellular access point 210
can be connected to a first device module 220 that includes a
battery and the first device module can be connected to a second
device module 220 that includes a camera. In such a case, cellular
access point 210 can receive power associated with the battery
based on an electrical connection between the first device module
220 and cellular access point 210 and cellular access point 210 can
receive data associated with the camera based on an electrical
connection between cellular access point 210, first device module
220, and the second device module 220.
[0065] In some implementations, cellular access point 210 can have
an electrical connection through device module 220 to ground
element 230. For example, when cellular access point 210 is mounted
on device module 220 and device module 220 is mounted on base
section 454 of ground element 230, an electrical connection can be
made between ground element 230 and cellular access point 210 based
on a conductive path (e.g., a wire, a conductive strip, etc.)
through device module 220.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 4B, mobile hotspot system 240 can include
cellular access point 210 that can include interface 422. For
example, second surface 416 of cellular access point 210 can
include interface 422. In some implementations, interface 422 can
include a protruded pad (e.g., a protruded circular pad). In some
implementations, interface 422 can include a plurality of
electrical contacts 424 (e.g., conductive surfaces, conductive
metal pieces, tabs, pads, vias, pins, spring pins, galvanic pins,
pogo pins, etc.) for providing and/or receiving power and/or data.
In some implementations, electrical contacts 424 are configured to
mate with electrical contacts 444 of interface 442.
[0067] In some implementations, interface 442 can be complementary
to interface 422. For example, the protruded circular pad of
interface 422 can fit into the recessed circular pad of interface
442. Additionally, the electrical contacts 424 of interface 422 can
align with the electrical contacts 444 of interface 442. In some
implementations, interface 442 can make an interference fit with
interface 422.
[0068] In some implementations, interface 422 of cellular access
point 210 and interface 442 of device module 220 can provide a
connection (e.g., an electrical connection) between cellular access
point 210 and device module 220. For example, cellular access point
210 can receive power and/or data from device module 220 via
electrical contacts 424 and 444 of interfaces 422 and 442. In some
implementations, interface 422 can be configured to engage with
interface 442 when cellular access point 210 and device module 220
are aligned based on post 452 of ground element 230.
[0069] In some implementations, when device module 220 is connected
to cellular access point 210, communication (e.g., handshaking,
etc.) can occur through interface 422 of cellular access point 210
and interface 442 of device module 220. For example, a USB
handshake can be implemented via interfaces 422 and 442 of cellular
access point 210 and device module 220.
[0070] By providing interfaces 422 and 442 between cellular access
point 210 and device module 220, device module 220 can be quickly
and easily connected to cellular access point 210 and device module
220 can have reliable access to a data network via cellular network
280. Further, by providing an electrical connection between
cellular access point 210 and device module 220, a user can
experience increased speed, security, and/or privacy associated
with data communication between cellular access point 210 and
device module 220, as well as less potential interference than
compared to a wireless signal. Additionally, interfaces 422 and 442
of cellular access point 210 and device module 220 can allow for
higher-layer communication between cellular access point 210 and
device module 220 (e.g., to configure cellular access point and/or
device module 220, etc.).
[0071] In some implementations, cellular access point 210 and/or
device module 220 can provide an indication (e.g., a visible
indication, an auditory indication, a tactile sensation, etc.) to
the user when cellular access point 210 and device module 220
establish an electrical connection via interfaces 422 and 442. For
example, cellular access point 210 can include a light on first
surface 414 that is activated when the electrical connection is
established based on interfaces 422 and 442.
[0072] In some implementations, second surface 416 of cellular
access point 210 can engage with first surface 434 of device module
220. For example, second surface 416 can include a magnet that is
attracted to first surface 434 and vice versa. In some
implementations, first surface 434 can include a magnet and second
surface 416 can include a magnet and the magnets attract each
other. In some implementations, second surface 416 and/or first
surface 434 can include a treatment that causes cellular access
point 210 to be held in place with respect to device module 220 or
vice versa. For example, second surface 416 can have a rough
surface that is complimentary to a rough surface of first surface
434 and prevents slippage between cellular access point 210 and
device module 220.
[0073] By providing a way for second surface 416 of cellular access
point 210 to engage with first surface 434 of device module 220,
second surface 416 and first surface 434 help to hold cellular
access point 210 in engagement with device module 220 and vice
versa.
[0074] As shown in FIG. 4C, mobile hotspot system 240 can include
cellular access point 210 that can include one or more recesses 426
that are located in channel 420. In some implementations, the one
or more recesses 426 can be complimentary to one or more
protrusions 466 located on post 452 of ground element 230. For
example, the one or more protrusions 466 can provide an
interference fit with the one or more recesses 426. In some
implementations, the one or more recesses 426 can include
electrical contacts that provide an electrical connection between
cellular access point 210 and ground element 230. For example, the
electrical contacts in the one or more recesses 426 can make the
electrical connection with the one or more protrusions 466 on post
452 of ground element 230. In some implementations, the one or more
protrusions 466 can include a conductive spring pin. For example,
the conductive spring pin can be configured to retract inward
towards post 452 as the one or more recesses 426 are brought into
engagement with the spring pin.
[0075] By providing the one or more protrusions 466 with a
conductive spring pin, the conductive spring pin allows for easier
connection between cellular access point 210 and ground element 230
as compared to a solid or rigid electrical contact associated with
protrusions 466.
[0076] In some implementations, the one or more recesses 426 and
the one or more protrusions 466 can be configured so that when
cellular access point 210 is mounted on device module 220 and post
452 is located within channel 420, an electrical connection is made
between cellular access point 210 and ground element 230 based on
electrical contacts in the one or more recesses 426 and the one or
more protrusions 466. In some implementations, interface 422 of
cellular access point 210 and interface 442 of device module 220
are configured to make an electrical connection when an electrical
connection is made between electrical contacts in the one or more
recesses 426 and the one or more protrusions 466.
[0077] In some implementations, device module 220 can include one
or more recesses that are the same or similar to one or more
recesses 426. For example, device module 220 can include the one or
more recesses within channel 440 that are the same or similar to
one or more recesses 426 described above.
[0078] As shown in FIG. 4D, mobile hotspot system 240 can include
cellular access point 210 that can include a plurality of
components for providing access to cellular network 280. For
example, cellular access point 210 can include a printed circuit
board (PCB) 470 and a plurality of cellular antennas. In some
implementations, the plurality of cellular antennas can include
first main antenna 472, second main antenna 474, and diversity
antenna 476. In some implementations, diversity antenna 476
provides an antenna for receiving a signal that can be received
based on better signal strength to diversity antenna 476 where the
signal would otherwise be received by first main antenna 472 or
second main antenna 474. In some implementations, ground plane 480
is the ground plane provided when cellular access point 210 is
electrically connected with ground element 230. In some
implementations, first main antenna 472, second main antenna 474,
and/or diversity antenna 476 can be sized and configured to fit
within housing 412 of cellular access point 210. For example, first
main antenna 472, second main antenna 474, and diversity antenna
476 can have a radius of curvature that matches a radius of
curvature of housing 412 of cellular access point 210. In some
implementations, first main antenna 472, second main antenna 474,
and/or diversity antenna 476 can include a microstrip antenna. In
some implementations, first main antenna 472, second main antenna
474, and diversity antenna 476 can provide for 3-way diversity
and/or 4 by 3 Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) support.
[0079] In some implementations, first main antenna 472 can be an
antenna for Band 4 of the LTE frequency spectrum. For example,
first main antenna 472 can support transmitting and receiving
information in Band 4. In some implementations, second main antenna
474 can be an antenna be for Band 13 of the LTE spectrum. For
example, second main antenna 474 can support transmitting and
receiving information in Band 13. In some implementations,
diversity antenna 476 can be an antenna that covers Band 4 and Band
13 of LTE frequency bands and/or can provide spatial diversity for
a radio signal received by cellular access point 210. For example,
diversity antenna 476 can support receiving information in Band 4
and Band 13 as well as multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO)
functionality. In some implementations, cellular access point 210
can include additional cellular antennas for additional or
different frequency bands. In some implementations, cellular access
point 210 can include additional cellular antennas for antenna
diversity.
[0080] In some implementations, first main antenna 472, second main
antenna 474, and/or diversity antenna 476 can be configured to act
as a monopole antenna with a ground plane (e.g., a ground plane
provided by PCB 470 and/or ground plane 480 provided by ground
element 230). In some implementations, first main antenna 472,
second main antenna 474, and/or diversity antenna 476 can act as a
monopole antenna and the ground plane can cause first main antenna
472, second main antenna 474, and/or diversity antenna 476 to have
behavior that is similar to a dipole antenna based on reflections
of a radio signal from the ground plane.
[0081] In some implementations, PCB 470 can provide a ground plane
to reflect radio signals transmitted by or received by first main
antenna 472, second main antenna 474, and/or diversity antenna 476.
In some implementations, performance of PCB 470 (e.g., reflection
of radio signals by PCB 470) can be limited by the size of PCB 470
and spacing of PCB 470 in relation to first main antenna 472,
second main antenna 474, and/or diversity antenna 476. By providing
an electrical connection between cellular access point 210 and
ground element 230, ground element 230 can provide ground plane 480
that can be larger than the ground plane provided by PCB 470.
Accordingly, ground plane 480 can enhance radio performance of
first main antenna 472, second main antenna 474, and/or diversity
antenna 476.
[0082] As shown in FIG. 4E, various dimensions of mobile hotspot
system 240 are shown. In some implementations, height 482 of mobile
hotspot system 240 can be between approximately 34 mm and
approximately 36 mm. In some implementations, height 482 can be
approximately 35 mm. In some implementations, diameter 484 of
cellular access point 210 can be between approximately 65 mm and
approximately 70 mm. In some implementations, diameter 484 can be
approximately 68 mm. In some implementations, a diameter of device
module 220 can be the same or similar to diameter 484. In some
implementations, height 486 of cellular access point 210 can be
between approximately 13 mm and 17 mm. In some implementations,
height 486 of cellular access point 210 can be approximately 13 mm.
In some implementations, a height of device module 220 can be the
same or similar to height 486.
[0083] In some implementations, distance 488 between second main
antenna 474 of cellular access point 210 and ground plane 480
provided when cellular access point 210 is electrically connected
with ground element 230 can be between approximately 20 mm and
approximately 25 mm. In some implementations, distance 488 can be
approximately 23 mm. In some implementations, a distance between
first main antenna 472 and/or diversity antenna 476 and ground
plane 480 can be the same or similar to distance 488.
[0084] In some implementations, two or more device modules 220 can
be placed between cellular access point 210 and ground element 230
to increase the distance between an antenna of cellular access
point 210 and ground plane 480 provided by ground element 230. For
example, mobile hotspot system 240 can include three (or more)
modules. In some implementations, another component (e.g., a
non-conductive component) can be placed between cellular access
point 210 and ground element 230 to provide a predetermined
distance between cellular access point 210 and ground element 230.
For example, a plastic bridge piece can be placed between cellular
access point 210 and ground element 230 to provide the
predetermined distance.
[0085] In some implementations, an antenna (e.g., first main
antenna 472, second main antenna 474, or diversity antenna 476) of
cellular access point 210 can be oriented so that an axis of the
antenna is aligned with ground plane 480 provided by ground element
230. For example, second main antenna 474 can be oriented so that
longitudinal axis 490 of second main antenna 474 is approximately
in parallel to ground plane 480.
[0086] Although FIGS. 4A-4E show an example implementation of
mobile hotspot system 240, in some implementations, mobile hotspot
system 240 can include additional components, fewer components,
different components, or differently arranged components than those
depicted in FIGS. 4A-4E.
[0087] FIG. 5 is a diagram of an example implementation of ground
element 230 of mobile hotspot system 240. As shown in FIG. 5,
ground element 230 of mobile hotspot system 240 can include post
452 and base section 454. In some implementations, base section 454
of ground element 230 can include conductive section 460 and
non-conductive section 462. In some implementations, conductive
section 460 and/or non-conductive section 462 can have a shape that
corresponds to or is complimentary to a shape of base section 454,
cellular access point 210, and/or device module 220. For example,
conductive section 460 and non-conductive section 462 can have an
annular shape that matches the shape of base section 454.
[0088] In some implementations, conductive section 460 can have a
radius of curvature that is the same or similar to a radius of
curvature of non-conductive section 462. In some implementations,
second surface 436 of device module 220 can extend into a space at
an interior of the annular shape of non-conductive section 462. In
some implementations, non-conductive section 462 can make a flat
planar surface inside of the annular shape of conductive section
460. The flat planar can support second surface 436 of device
module 220 when device module 220 is mounted on base section 454 of
ground element 230.
[0089] In some implementations, conductive section 460 can include
a material such as a conductor (e.g., a metal, aluminum, copper,
steel, gold, electroceramics, a semiconductor, combinations of
conductors, etc.). In some implementations, non-conductive section
462 can include a material such as an insulator (e.g., plastics,
rubber, glass, ceramics, wood, combinations of insulators, etc.).
In some implementations, base section 454 can include combinations
of materials that are conductors without materials that are
insulators. In some implementations, post 452 is made from the same
material as conductive section 460. In some implementations, post
452 is made integrally with conductive section 460. For example,
post 452 and at least a portion of conductive section 460 can be
made from a single piece of metal.
[0090] In some implementations, non-conductive section 462 can
include one or more tabs 464. For example, the one or more tabs 464
can extend away from first surface 456 in a direction parallel to
post 452. In some implementations, the one or more tabs 464 can be
configured to hold device module 220 (or cellular access point 210)
in place with respect to ground element 230 when device module 220
(or cellular access point 210) is mounted on base section 454 of
ground element 230. In some implementations, device module 220 (or
cellular access point 210) can include one or more recesses into
which the one or more tabs 464 are received.
[0091] In some implementations, ground element 230 can include one
or more gaps 468 that are sized and configured to provide and/or
enhance resonance associated with radio signals that are received
and/or transmitted by cellular access point 210 when cellular
access point 210 is electrically connected with ground element 230.
For example, conductive section 460 of ground element 230 can
include one or more gaps 468. In some implementations, one or more
gaps 468 can be sized and configured so that the conductive section
460 can include one or more subsections. For example, ground
element 230 can include two gaps 468 so that the conductive section
460 includes two subsections. In some implementations, the length
of the one or more subsections of conductive section 460 can
provide and/or enhance resonance regarding a radio signal
associated a frequency band in which cellular access point 210
operates to enhance radio performance of the antenna(s) of cellular
access point 210 with regard to cellular network 280. In some
implementations, the one or more gaps 468 can be filled with an
insulator. For example, the one or more gaps 468 can be filled with
over-molded plastic (e.g., polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene
styrene (ABS), etc.) that is part of the non-conductive section 462
of ground element 230. In some implementations, the one or more
gaps 468 can be located at points in the base section 454 to break
conductivity in the base section 454. In some implementations, the
non-conductive section 462 can be configured to support the
conductive section 460 so that the one or more gaps 468 have a
predetermined length.
[0092] In some implementations, post 452 can include one or more
protrusions 466 that can provide a connection (e.g., an electrical
connection) between post 452 of ground element 230 and a module. In
some implementations, one or more protrusions 466 can be located on
post 452 based on a height of a module (e.g., cellular access point
210, device module 220). In some implementations, a height of post
452 can be based on a number of modules that are to be connected to
ground element 230 based on post 452. In some implementations,
height 502 of base section 454 of ground element 230 can be between
approximately 4 mm and approximately 8 mm. For example, height 502
of base section 454 of ground element 230 can be approximately 3
mm.
[0093] In some implementations, ground element 230 can have a
permanent or non-permanent attachment mechanism for attaching
ground element 230 to a surface. For example, ground element 230
can include screw holes, strong adhesive, or the like for ground
element 230 to be attached to a surface permanently. In some
implementations, ground element 230 can include a weak adhesive,
tacky rubber, suction cup(s), or the like for ground element 230 to
be attached to a surface non-permanently. In some implementations,
the permanent or non-permanent attachment mechanism can be located
on second surface 458 of base section 454.
[0094] By providing an attachment mechanism associated with ground
element 230, ground element 230 can be held in place with respect
to a surface and can allow a user to place mobile hotspot system
240 in locations where mobile hotspot system 240 might otherwise be
unstable.
[0095] Although FIG. 5 shows an example implementation of ground
element 230 of mobile hotspot system 240, in some implementations,
in some implementations, ground element 230 can include additional
components, fewer components, different components, or differently
arranged components than those depicted in FIG. 5.
[0096] FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams of an example implementation of
a mobile hotspot system 640. As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, mobile
hotspot system 640 can include cellular access point 210, device
module 620, and ground element 630. In some implementations, mobile
hotspot system 640 can be the same or similar to mobile hotspot
system 240. Potential differences between device module 620 and
device module 220 are described below. In some implementations,
device module 620 can be similar to device module 220. Potential
differences between device module 620 and device module 220 are
described below. In some implementations, ground element 630 can be
similar to ground element 230. Potential differences between ground
element 630 and ground element 230 are described below.
[0097] As further shown in FIG. 6A, device module 620 can include
first interface 622 and second interface 624. In some
implementations, first interface 622 can include a protruded
circular pad that extends away from second surface 626 of device
module 620. In some implementations, first interface 622 can be the
same or similar to interface 422 of cellular access point 210. For
example, first interface 622 can include six electrical contacts
that can be the same or similar to electrical contacts 424 of
interface 422. In some implementations, second interface 624 of
device module 620 can include a socket for communicating power
and/or data. For example, second interface 624 can include a USB
port.
[0098] In some implementations, second interface 624 can allow
device module 620 to charge an electronic device that is
electrically connected to device module 620 via second interface
624 (e.g., a cell phone, a tablet, a laptop, etc.). For example,
device module 620 can include a battery and the battery can charge
a cell phone connected to device module 620 via second interface
624. In some implementations, device module 620 can charge an
electronic device electrically connected to device module 620 via
second interface 624 when device module 620 is not connected to
cellular access point 210 and/or ground element 630. In some
implementations, device module 620 can be charged via second
interface 624. For example, an alternating current (AC) adaptor can
be plugged into second interface 624 at a first end and the AC
adaptor can be plugged into an electrical socket at a second end to
provide electricity to device module 620.
[0099] In some implementations, device module 620 can receive
information (e.g., data, commands, configurations, etc.) via second
interface 624. For example, device module 620 can receive
information associated with a configuration setting for a home
sensor of device module 620. In some implementations, device module
620 can receive information associated with cellular access point
210 via second interface 624. For example, device module 620 can
receive a configuration setting for WLAN network 260 provided by
cellular access point 210 via second interface 624. In some
implementations, device module 620 can provide information received
via second interface 624 to cellular access point 210. For example,
device module 620 can provide the configuration setting for WLAN
network 260 to cellular access point 210 based on interface 442
(not shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B) of device module 620 and interface
422 (not shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B) of cellular access point
210.
[0100] As further shown in FIG. 6B, ground element 630 can include
first interface 632 and second interface 636. In some
implementations, first interface 632 can include a recessed
circular pad in first surface 656 of base section 654 of ground
element 630. In some implementations, first interface 632 can be
the same or similar to interface 442 of device module 220. For
example, first interface 632 can include six electrical contacts
that can be the same or similar to electrical contacts 444 of
interface 442. In some implementations, second interface 636 of
ground element 630 can include a socket for communicating power
and/or data. For example, second interface 636 can include a USB
port. In some implementations, second interface 636 can be the same
or similar to second interface 624 of device module 620.
[0101] In some implementations, ground element 630 can provide
power to an electronic device that is electrically connected to
ground element 630 via second interface 636 (e.g., a cell phone, a
tablet, a laptop, etc.). For example, ground element 630 can
include an electrical cord and plug that can be plugged into an
electrical socket to provide electricity to ground element 630 and
ground element 630 can charge a cell phone connected to device
module 620 via second interface 624 based on the electrical
connection to the electrical socket. In some implementations,
ground element 630 can receive power via second interface 636. For
example, an AC adaptor can be plugged into second interface 636 at
a first end and the AC adaptor can be plugged into an electrical
socket at a second end to provide electricity to ground element
630.
[0102] In some implementations, ground element 630 can provide
power to an electronic device that is electrically connected to
ground element 630 via second interface 636 based on device module
620. For example, device module 620 can include a battery and
ground element 630 can receive power via first interfaces 622 and
632 of device module 620 and ground element 630. The power can be
provided to a cell phone connected to ground element 630 via second
interface 636. In some implementations, ground element 630 can
provide power to device module 620 and/or cellular access point
210. For example, ground element 630 can provide power to device
module 620 via first interfaces 622 and 632 of device module 620
and ground element 630 based on power provided by a power source
that is electrically connected to ground element 630 via second
interface 636.
[0103] In some implementations, ground element 630 can receive
information (e.g., data, a command, a configuration setting, etc.)
via second interface 636. For example, ground element 630 can
receive information associated with a configuration setting for a
home sensor of device module 620. In some implementations, ground
element 630 can provide the information received via second
interface 636 to device module 620. For example, ground element 630
can provide the configuration setting for the home sensor to device
module 620 based on first interface 632 of ground element 630 and
first interface 622 of device module 620.
[0104] As further shown in FIG. 6B, base section 654 of ground
element 630 can include first surface 656. In some implementations,
first surface 656 can support device module 620 when device module
620 is mounted on base section 654 of ground element 630. For
example, first surface 656 can include a flat planar surface that
corresponds to second surface 626 to support device module 620 when
device module 620 is mounted on base section 654 of ground element
630.
[0105] Although FIGS. 6A and 6B show an example implementation of
mobile hotspot system 640, in some implementations, mobile hotspot
system 640 can include additional components, fewer components,
different components, or differently arranged components than those
depicted in FIG. 6.
[0106] The foregoing disclosure provides illustration and
description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the
implementations to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and
variations are possible in light of the above disclosure or can be
acquired from practice of the implementations.
[0107] As used herein, the term component is intended to be broadly
construed as hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and
software.
[0108] To the extent the aforementioned embodiments collect, store,
or employ personal information provided by individuals, it should
be understood that such information shall be used in accordance
with all applicable laws concerning protection of personal
information. Additionally, the collection, storage, and use of such
information can be subject to consent of the individual to such
activity, for example, through well known "opt-in" or "opt-out"
processes as can be appropriate for the situation and type of
information. Storage and use of personal information can be in an
appropriately secure manner reflective of the type of information,
for example, through various encryption and anonymization
techniques for particularly sensitive information.
[0109] Even though particular combinations of features are recited
in the claims and/or disclosed in the specification, these
combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure of possible
implementations. In fact, many of these features can be combined in
ways not specifically recited in the claims and/or disclosed in the
specification. Although each dependent claim listed below can
directly depend on only one claim, the disclosure of possible
implementations includes each dependent claim in combination with
every other claim in the claim set.
[0110] No element, act, or instruction used herein should be
construed as critical or essential unless explicitly described as
such. Also, as used herein, the articles "a" and "an" are intended
to include one or more items, and can be used interchangeably with
"one or more." Furthermore, as used herein, the term "set" is
intended to include one or more items (e.g., related items,
unrelated items, a combination of related and unrelated items,
etc.), and can be used interchangeably with "one or more." Where
only one item is intended, the term "one" or similar language is
used. Also, as used herein, the terms "has," "have," "having," or
the like are intended to be open-ended terms. Further, the phrase
"based on" is intended to mean "based, at least in part, on" unless
explicitly stated otherwise.
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