Signal generating system and signal generating method

Abstract

A signal generation system for signal simulation comprises: at least one data input (18), a pulse descriptor generator unit (14), a multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) and at least one radio frequency output (20). The multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) is configured to simulate a multi-frequency global navigation satellite system signal. The pulse descriptor generator unit (14) and the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) are assigned to the data input (18) in order to process data received via the data input (18). The pulse descriptor generator unit (14) and the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) are configured to generate an output signal based on at least one instruction for a specific generator behavior of the pulse descriptor generator unit (14) and / or the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16). The at least one instruction is contained in the received data. Further, a method of signal generation is described.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a signal generation system for signal simulation. In addition, the present invention relates to a method for signal generation by means of a signal generation system. Background Art

[0002] In modern times, wireless communication using radio frequency signals has become more important.

[0003] Different communication systems use different kinds of signals, which in turn increases the amount of work required to test the corresponding communication equipment. For example, mobile phones use several different wireless communication technologies to establish different communication links. When testing a mobile phone, the several communication technologies used must be tested in order to verify the correct operation of the mobile phone. Other communication devices may use global navigation satellite system (GNSS) signals and radar signals, which must be tested in order to verify the correct operation of the corresponding communication equipment.

[0004] In addition to the test process to be performed for testing a certain communication device, the number of test instruments required to perform the corresponding test on a certain device under test also increases. This leads to high costs for testing the corresponding communication device because several different test instruments must be purchased in advance.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a cost-effective way to ensure proper testing of a device under test. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present invention provides a signal generation system for signal simulation. The signal generation system comprises at least one data input for receiving data, a pulse description word (PDW) generator unit for generating a pulse description word signal, a multi-frequency signal generator unit for generating a multi-frequency signal, and at least one radio frequency output. The multi-frequency signal generator unit is configured to simulate a multi-frequency global navigation satellite system (GNSS) signal. The pulse description word generator unit and the multi-frequency signal generator unit are assigned to the data input so as to process the data received through the data input. The pulse description word generator unit and the multi-frequency signal generator unit are configured to generate a corresponding output signal based on at least one instruction for a specific generator behavior of the pulse description word generator unit and / or the multi-frequency signal generator unit, wherein the at least one instruction is contained in the received data.

[0007] Furthermore, the present invention provides a method for generating a signal by a signal generating system, wherein the signal generating system comprises a pulse description word generator unit and a multi-frequency signal generator unit. The method comprises the following steps:

[0008] - receiving data via at least one data input, wherein the data comprises at least one instruction for a specific generator behavior of the pulse description word generator unit and / or the multi-frequency signal generator unit,

[0009] - processing at least one instruction contained in data received via the pulse descriptor generator unit and / or the multi-frequency signal generator unit, and

[0010] - generating output signals by means of a pulse description word generator unit and / or a multi-frequency signal generator unit according to instructions provided in the received data.

[0011] Thus, the signal generation system is enabled to perform the corresponding method described above. In fact, the signal generation system comprises two different architectures, namely the GNSS architecture and the PDW architecture. These different signal generator architectures are simultaneously combined in the signal generation system. The entire signal generation system has at least one data input for receiving corresponding data, which can be forwarded to one of the corresponding generator units for generating the signal to be output.

[0012] The signal generator system may include a housing enclosing the pulse descriptor generator unit and the multi-frequency signal generator unit. In other words, the corresponding generator units or more precisely the corresponding signal generator architectures are usually accommodated in the same housing of the signal generator system.

[0013] Thus, the at least one radio frequency output and / or the at least one data input may be assigned to an outer surface of the respective housing, thereby ensuring easy accessibility for an operator of the signal generator system.

[0014] The received corresponding data contains instructions that can be processed by (multiple) generator units so that its / their behavior is adjusted based on the processed corresponding instructions. The instructions can be assigned to a scenario description for simulation purposes. Therefore, the received data can be referred to as scenario data. In other words, the corresponding signal of a certain entity is simulated by means of the signal generation system, wherein the corresponding instructions contained in the received data define the corresponding simulation scenario.

[0015] The scenario description may define a corresponding waveform of an output signal generated by the signal generation system. In other words, the waveform of the generated signal depends on the corresponding scenario to be simulated defined by the scenario description or more precisely the instructions. Alternatively or additionally, the corresponding scenario description may define other parameters besides the waveform, which are associated with the corresponding scenario to be simulated.

[0016] Thus, the signal generation system is configured to generate an output signal corresponding to a signal simulating or more precisely emulating a corresponding entity. The generated output signal depends on data received via at least one data input. The received data contains at least one instruction which, when processed by at least one generator unit, causes the corresponding generator unit(s) to adjust its / their corresponding behavior (settings) so as to generate the output signal in a manner that complies with the expected corresponding scenario.

[0017] Since the signal generation system includes two different signal generation architectures established by the PDW generator unit and the multi-frequency signal generator unit, two (different) baseband boards can be provided. Each baseband board can have a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a digital signal processor (DSP) connected to a digital to analog converter (DAC). In other words, each baseband board has its own hardware device connected to the DAC. The DAC can involve a broadband DAC allowing at least 500MHz bandwidth.

[0018] Further, the signal generation system (in particular each baseband board) may include an IQ modulator for modulating the corresponding baseband signal provided by the DAC. An operator of the signal generation system may set a specific carrier frequency as well as a specific total power, which are taken into account when appropriately modulating the baseband signal by the IQ modulator.

[0019] In fact, the data may contain at least one pulse descriptor word (PDW) scenario that allows the operator to simulate a radar scenario. Such a radar scenario can be created using an external device (e.g., external software). The external device / software may provide data associated with a pulse descriptor word scenario, i.e., scenario data, wherein the (scenario) data is processed internally by the PDW generator unit, such as the corresponding baseband of the signal generation system. The PDW generator unit that processes the data associated with the pulse descriptor word scenario (i.e., scenario data) then generates / calculates a pulse descriptor word (PDW) based on the received data, wherein the PDW word is processed so that at least one PDW signal is obtained. To this end, the baseband signal is modulated accordingly by the calculated PDW, for example, on an operator-defined carrier frequency and using an operator-defined power level.

[0020] The data (i.e., scenario data) may also include at least one multi-frequency GNSS scenario, in particular a very long scenario. This GNSS scenario includes simulating satellite signals on the L-band (e.g., L1, L2, and / or L5). Moreover, the GNSS scenario may include coherent propagation of these signals. The various architectures of baseband boards for GNSS applications allow all signals transmitted from the same satellite to be simulated simultaneously on the same baseband board. Signals from different satellites are added to the baseband board.

[0021] Generally speaking, a signal generating system may involve a vector signal generator having two different signal generator architectures.

[0022] According to one aspect, in a first operating mode of the signal generation system, the signal generation system is configured to output a multi-frequency global navigation satellite system signal via a radio frequency output. In a second operating mode of the signal generation system, the signal generation system is configured to output a pulse descriptor word signal via a radio frequency output. Therefore, the PDW signal corresponds to an RF signal. Therefore, the signal generation system may include at least two different operating modes, in which only one of the two generator units is active. This means that only one of the two generator units generates the signal to be output.

[0023] Depending on the data received via the data input, the signal generation system can be operated in its first operating mode or in its second operating mode, in particular automatically due to the corresponding type of data received. The data received via the data input are processed by the multi-frequency signal generator unit in the first operating mode in order to output a multi-frequency global navigation satellite system signal. In the second operating mode, the corresponding data are processed by the pulse descriptor word generator unit so that the signal generation system outputs a pulse descriptor word signal.

[0024] In the first operation mode, only the multi-frequency signal generator unit is active, resulting in the output of a multi-frequency GNSS signal.The output signal thus corresponds to the multi-frequency GNSS signal generated by the multi-frequency signal generator unit.

[0025] In the second operation mode, only the pulse descriptor word generator unit is active, resulting in the output of the pulse descriptor word signal. Thus, the output signal corresponds to the pulse descriptor word signal generated by the pulse descriptor word generator unit.

[0026] According to another aspect, in a third operating mode of the signal generation system, the signal generation system is configured to simultaneously output a multi-frequency global navigation satellite system signal and a pulse descriptor word signal. The respective signals can be simultaneously output by using two different radio frequency paths. Thus, the signal generation system has two radio frequency paths that allow simultaneous generation of GNSS signals and PDW signals. Thus, size and cost are reduced because two different types of signals can be simultaneously simulated or more precisely generated by a single signal generation system.

[0027] In an alternative embodiment, a composite signal is output via a (single) RF output, the (single) RF output comprising the multi-frequency GNSS signal and the pulse descriptor word signal. Thus, a single signal (i.e., a composite signal) is output via a single RF output, wherein the respective composite signal comprises two signals generated by different generator units.

[0028] Furthermore, a multiplexer for multiplexing individual signals, in particular different GNSS signals, may be provided.

[0029] In the third operation mode, two generator units (i.e., the multi-frequency signal generator unit and the pulse descriptor word generator unit) are active. Therefore, the output signal corresponds to the multi-frequency global navigation satellite system signal and the pulse descriptor word signal generated by the multi-frequency signal generator unit and the pulse descriptor word generator unit, respectively, and in particular, the output signal is a composite signal.

[0030] On the other hand, a signal generation system is provided that is configured to switch between different operating modes. The signal generation system has at least three different operating modes, namely a single GNSS operating mode, a single PDW operating mode, and a simultaneous operating mode. The signal generation system can switch between these different operating modes. Therefore, the signal generation system can switch between a single RF signal output (a first operating mode and a second operating mode) and multiple signal outputs (a third operating mode). In the case where different RF signal paths and RF outputs are assigned to it, the number of effective RF outputs can be appropriately switched.

[0031] The switching may be done manually by an operator of the signal generating system. Alternatively or additionally, the switching is done by means of received and processed data, ie in an automatic manner.

[0032] In addition, the pulse description word generator unit and the multi-frequency signal generator unit are configured to be synchronized with each other. Therefore, it is ensured that the signals output by the signal generation system are temporarily aligned with each other due to the synchronization. This is particularly important in the third operating mode, because (multiple) GNSS signals and (multiple) PDW signals can be output simultaneously. However, this is also important if several PDW signals or GNSS signals are transmitted in the corresponding scenario being simulated.

[0033] For example, synchronization between the generator units is based on timing information received via the data input. Thus, the data may also contain timing information resulting in synchronization of the generator unit(s) or signal generator architecture.

[0034] A communication line may be established between the two generator units, which ensures their synchronization.

[0035] In particular, the timing information is processed by the pulse descriptor generator unit and / or the multi-frequency signal generator unit in order to be synchronized with each other in terms of the time associated with outputting the output signal.

[0036] Another aspect provides that the signal generator system is configured to operate in real time. As mentioned above, the individual components of the signal generation system can be established by hardware devices, such as FPGA, ASIC or DSP. The hardware devices ensure real-time processing of data and thus real-time output of the output signal.

[0037] The output signal, in particular the multi-frequency GNSS signal, has different frequency bands, in particular the frequency band assigned to the L-band. For example, the output signal, in particular the GNSS signal, may use the L1, L2 and / or L5 frequency bands. Thus, the multi-frequency GNSS signal may be a multiplexed signal, or more precisely a composite signal.

[0038] Furthermore, the output signal can be a coherent output signal. Since the generator units can be synchronized with each other, it can be ensured that the output signal is a coherent signal. In the case of a multiplexed or multi-frequency GNSS signal, the individual signal parts allocated to different frequencies (particularly the L-band) are coherent.

[0039] On the other hand, at least one instruction for a specific generator behavior of the pulse description word generator unit and / or the multi-frequency signal generator unit corresponds to a scene description. As mentioned above, the scene description can relate to a specific scene of simulation or more precisely simulation. In particular, motion data or a body mask can be associated with the corresponding scene description. The motion data can relate to the position, velocity, acceleration and / or jerk of the specific object simulated, in particular in the radar scene. The body mask can be used for land vehicles, ships, aircraft and spacecraft, in particular for defining the corresponding radar cross section.

[0040] Generally speaking, scenario descriptions (ie, instructions associated therewith) are used for signal and / or waveform calculations. Thus, corresponding scenarios for simulation or, more precisely, emulation are implemented by corresponding scenario descriptions that affect signal and / or waveform calculations.

[0041] Generally speaking, PDW data (ie, a pulse descriptor word (PDW)) may be generated by a PDW generator unit based on data received via a data input. The PDW generator unit may directly process the PDW data (ie, a PDW) to generate a PDW signal.

[0042] Typically, data associated with a PDW includes information such as arrival time, frequency offset, phase offset, amplitude (attenuation) and / or segment / timing information. This information is processed to determine the time of the output PDW signal and its characteristics with respect to frequency offset, phase offset and its amplitude.

[0043] For example, the data associated with a PDW (i.e., data processed by the Pulse Descriptor Word (PDW) generator unit) contains the radar signal parameters for each pulse as well as a timestamp defining when the pulse started. Therefore, a scenario can easily contain millions of PDWs, where each PDW represents a pulse.

[0044] Thus, I / Q modulated pulse signals, unmodulated pulses, Barker coded pulses, LFM pulses (Linear Frequency Modulation Pulses), and frequency offsets or amplitude offsets are generated in real time based on parameters defined in the data associated with the PDW.

[0045] Additionally, it is possible to mix the data associated with the PDW, resulting in a mixed signal assigned to a classical pulse signal with a modern radar signal which is usually I / Q modulated.

[0046] Preferably, the signal generation system has (only) a single data input. Thus, the signal generation system receives corresponding data for the signal simulation via the single data input, wherein the received data contains instructions for the pulse description word (PDW) generator unit and the multi-frequency signal generator unit. As mentioned above, the corresponding instructions are assigned to the scene description for simulation purposes, since the instructions contained in the received data are appropriately processed by the generator unit. Thus, the received data corresponds to the scene data.

[0047] In other words, the data to be processed by both generator units involves a single data set received via a single data input. The single data set provides at least one instruction to a pulse descriptor word (PDW) generator unit to generate a PDW signal and at least one instruction to a multi-frequency signal generator unit to generate a GNSS signal.

[0048] Thus, the data in a single data set received via a single data input is split internally by the signal generation system, in particular the processing circuit, thereby obtaining at least two data parts. A first data part associated with at least one pulse descriptor word (PDW) scenario is forwarded to a pulse descriptor word (PDW) generator unit, and a second data part associated with at least one multi-frequency GNSS scenario is forwarded to a multi-frequency signal generator unit.

[0049] Generally speaking, the PDW scenario and the GNSS scenario may together form a common scenario, which contains instructions for the PDW generator unit and the GNSS generator unit.

[0050] The respective generator units each process data associated with the respective data portion in order to generate a PDW signal and a GNSS signal having respective characteristics defined in the corresponding scenario(s).

[0051] In other words, a single data set received via a single data input contains data that can be divided into two data parts, wherein each data part is associated with at least one specific instruction processed by a corresponding generator unit. In particular, the data of the single data set contains data associated with a pulse descriptor word (PDW) scenario and data associated with a multi-frequency GNSS scenario.

[0052] In particular, the PDW generator unit receives data associated with a corresponding instruction, wherein the PDW generator unit generates a PDW signal based on the received data. Thus, the PDW generator unit processes the received data to obtain an internally processed pulse descriptor word in order to generate a PDW signal.

[0053] Hence, the PDW generator unit does not receive a PDW stream from an external device (in particular external software) since the PDW is (internally) generated / calculated by the PDW generator unit based on data (ie scene data) received via a single data input of the signal generation system.

[0054] Therefore, the PDW generator unit comprises a processing circuit configured to receive and process scenario data (particularly data associated with a PDW scenario) in order to calculate a PDW, ie PDW data. The calculated PDW is processed internally by the PDW generator unit to generate a PDW signal which can be output.

[0055] Likewise, the data received via the data input relates to scene data, ie data describing at least one scene. The respective scene data are processed internally by the signal generation system to generate corresponding radio frequency (RF) signal(s).

[0056] In particular, the PDW generator unit processes the received scene data in order to calculate / generate a PDW that is used internally to generate a PDW signal.

[0057] Therefore, the received data (ie, scenario data) is processed by the PDW generator unit to calculate the PDW and generate an RF signal. Further, the received data (ie, scenario data) is processed by the multi-frequency GNSS generator unit to generate a waveform and an RF signal corresponding to the generated waveform.

[0058] Herein and hereinafter, the term "module" or "unit" is understood to describe suitable hardware, suitable software or a combination of hardware and software configured to have a certain function.

[0059] The hardware may specifically include a CPU, GPU, FPGA, ASIC or other type of electronic circuitry. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0060] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of the claimed subject matter will become more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood with reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0061] Figure 1 schematically shows a signal generation system according to the present invention, and

[0062] Figure 2 A flow chart illustrating a method of signal generation according to the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] The detailed description set forth below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is intended to be a description of various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, and is not intended to represent a unique embodiment, in which the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. Each embodiment described in the present disclosure is provided only as an example or explanation, and should not be interpreted as being preferred or superior to other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the claimed subject matter to the disclosed precise form. For the purposes of this disclosure, the phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" for example means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C) or (A, B, and C), including all other possible arrangements when listing more than three elements. In other words, the term "at least one of A and B" generally refers to "A and / or B", i.e. only "A", only "B" or "A and B".

[0064] exist Figure 1 , a signal generating system 10 for signal simulation (ie, simulating or emulating a specific scenario for testing a device under test exposed to the simulated corresponding scenario) is shown.

[0065] The signal generating system 10 has a housing 12, which encloses a pulse descriptor word (PDW) generator unit 14 for generating a pulse descriptor word signal and a multi-frequency signal generator unit 16 for generating a multi-frequency signal, in particular a multi-frequency global navigation satellite system (GNSS) signal. Therefore, the respective generator units 14, 16 (i.e., the PDW generator unit 14 and the GNSS generator unit 16) correspond to different signal generator architectures.

[0066] Further, the signal generating system 10 has at least one data input 18 for receiving data which can be processed by the respective generator unit 14, 16, as will be described later. In the illustrated embodiment, a single data input 18 is shown.

[0067] Furthermore, the signal generating system 10 has at least one radio frequency output 20 which is assigned to the generator units 14 , 16 , such that a respective signal generated by at least one of the generator units 14 , 16 can be output via the radio frequency output 20 .

[0068] Generally speaking, the signal generation system 10 includes two baseband boards 22 and two radio frequency paths 24 .

[0069] Each baseband board 22 includes a hardware device 25 such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or digital signal processor (DSP) connected to a wideband digital to analog converter (DAC) 26 allowing a bandwidth of at least 500 MHz.

[0070] Further, an IQ modulator 28 is provided which is assigned to a respective signal path originating from the DAC 26. The DAC 26 provides a baseband signal modulated by the IQ modulator 28.

[0071] An operator of the signal generation system 10 may select a particular carrier frequency and / or a desired total power via an interface 30 coupled to the IQ modulator 28 .

[0072] Therefore, an operator of the signal generating system 10 is usually enabled to manually define the carrier frequency and the total power of the corresponding output signal.

[0073] The generator units 14 , 16 may be connected via their respective radio frequency paths 24 to a single radio frequency output 20 (solid line) or to two radio frequency outputs 20 (dashed line).

[0074] Generally speaking, the signal generation system 10 is enabled by performing the following steps: Figure 2 Schematically illustrates a signal generation method to generate an output signal.

[0075] In a first step S1, data are received via at least one data input 18, wherein the received data comprises at least one instruction for a specific generator behavior of the pulse description word generator unit 14 and / or the multi-frequency signal generator unit 16. In fact, the received data correspond to scenario data describing at least one scenario.

[0076] The respective generator unit 14, 16 is connected to a data input 18 so that received data can be forwarded to the respective generator unit 14, 16 to be processed appropriately.

[0077] The received data may relate to common data, or more precisely a single data set. Thus, the single data set may contain data that may be divided into two data portions, for example, by a processing circuit. Each data portion is associated with at least one specific instruction processed by a corresponding generator unit 14, 16. In particular, the data in the single data set includes data associated with a pulse description word (PDW) scenario and data associated with a multi-frequency GNSS scenario.

[0078] In a second step S2, at least one instruction contained in the received data is processed by the pulse descriptor word generator unit 14 and / or the multi-frequency signal generator unit 16. In fact, in the case where the PDW generator unit 14 alone processes or the multi-frequency signal generator unit 16 alone processes the corresponding instruction or in the case where both generator units 14, 16 process the corresponding instruction(s), it depends on the kind of the instruction.

[0079] When processed by at least one of the generator units 14, 16, at least one instruction contained in the received data causes the corresponding (multiple) generator unit 14, 16 to adjust its / their respective behavior so as to generate an output signal of the signal generation system 10 in a manner that conforms to the expected corresponding scenario. Thus, the settings of the (multiple) generator units 14, 16 can be adjusted so as to adjust the corresponding behavior of the (multiple) generator units 14, 16.

[0080] In a third step S3, output signals are generated by the pulse descriptor generator unit 14 and / or the multi-frequency signal generator unit 16. The respective output signal, in particular its characteristics as waveform, depends on the received data, in particular the respective instruction(s) contained in the received data.

[0081] Thus, the output signal of the signal generating system 10 may differ depending on the received data or more precisely the instruction(s) contained in the data.

[0082] In a fourth step S4 , the generated output signal is forwarded to the at least one radio frequency output 20 , such that the output signal is output via the at least one radio frequency output 20 .

[0083] Thus, the signal generating system 10 has different operating modes which, depending on the respective data processed, cause the respective generator unit(s) 14, 16 to adapt the instruction(s) of its / their behaviour.

[0084] Generally speaking, the pulse description word generator unit 14 and the multi-frequency signal generator unit 16 are configured to generate corresponding output signals based on at least one instruction for a specific generator behavior (ie, received scenario data).

[0085] In the first operation mode, the signal generating system 10 outputs a multi-frequency Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signal via the RF output 20, because the instructions (only) cause the multi-frequency signal generator 16 to process the corresponding data to generate a multi-frequency signal, ie a multi-frequency GNSS signal.

[0086] For example, a very long multi-frequency GNSS scenario is simulated, including simulating satellite signals of the L-band (i.e., L1, L2 and / or L5) and the coherent propagation of these signals. In fact, the multi-frequency signal generator unit 16 allows all signals transmitted from satellites to be simulated simultaneously on the same baseband board 22. In addition, signals from different satellites can be added in the corresponding baseband board 22.

[0087] In the second operation mode, the signal generation system 10 outputs the pulse descriptor word signal via the RF output 20, because the corresponding instructions (only) cause the pulse descriptor word generator 14 to process the corresponding data and output the pulse descriptor word signal.

[0088] For example, the PDW scenario generally allows an operator of the signal generation system 10 to potentially simulate a radar scenario. For example, the PDW generator unit 14 processes the scenario data received by the data input 18 to generate a pulse description word (PDW), i.e., PDW data. The PDW generator unit 14 then internally processes the generated PDW data while modulating the baseband signal, in particular according to an operator-defined carrier frequency and / or an operator-defined power level. The various settings can be done manually via the user interface 30.

[0089] Thus, the PDW generator unit 14 receives scene data via a data input 18 containing instructions. The PDW generator unit 14 processes the data in order to internally calculate a PDW from the data received via the data input 18. The PDW generator unit 14 then (internally) processes the PDW in order to generate a PDW signal, i.e. an RF signal. Thus, the PDW generator unit 14, or more precisely the signal generation system 10, does not receive a PDW stream from an external device or external software.

[0090] In the third operation mode, the signal generation system 10 simultaneously outputs a multi-frequency global navigation satellite system (GNSS) signal and a pulse descriptor word (PDW) signal. Therefore, the corresponding instructions enable the two generator units 14 and 16 to process the corresponding data and simultaneously generate the corresponding signals, namely the pulse descriptor word signal and the multi-frequency signal.

[0091] As mentioned above, the received scenario data is divided into two data parts, for example by the processing circuit, wherein the data parts are associated with specific instructions processed by the corresponding generator units, namely data associated with the pulse descriptor word (PDW) scenario and data associated with the multi-frequency GNSS scenario.

[0092] The respective signals, ie radio frequency (RF) signals, are generated by different baseband boards 22 , ie the baseband boards associated with the respective generator units 14 , 16 , wherein the generated signals are processed by respective RF paths 24 .

[0093] Thus, the signal generating system 10 can be switched between different operating modes. In fact, the switching can be done manually or automatically based on the type of data processed or more precisely received.

[0094] In general, at least one instruction for a specific generator behavior of the pulse description word generator unit 14 and / or the multi-frequency signal generator unit 16 corresponds to a scene description for signal and / or waveform calculation of the respective generator unit 14, 16, in particular the respective signal generated. For example, the scene description may relate to motion data and / or subject occlusions, which are taken into account by the respective generator unit(s) 14, 16.

[0095] Furthermore, the two generator units 14 , 16 are connected to one another via a communication line 32 , which ensures that the two generator units 14 , 16 can be synchronized with one another.

[0096] Hence, time alignment between the two generator units 14, 16 may be ensured such that a coherent output signal is generated.

[0097] The synchronization may be performed based on timing information received via the data input 18. In other words, the received data may contain respective timing information used by the generator units 14, 16.

[0098] Since the generator units 14, 16 are built by hardware devices, it is ensured that the entire signal generator system 10 can operate in real time. As mentioned above, the generator units 14, 16 may include a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a digital signal processor (DSP).

[0099] Hence, a cost-effective signal generating system 10 is provided which, due to the integrated separate architecture, ensures simulating the behavior of two different types of entities.

[0100] Certain embodiments disclosed herein (particularly corresponding (multiple) modules) utilize circuit systems (e.g., one or more circuits) in order to implement the standards, protocols, methods, or techniques disclosed herein; operably couple two or more components; generate information; process information; analyze information; generate signals; encode / decode signals; convert signals; transmit and / or receive signals; control other devices, etc. Any type of circuit system may be used.

[0101] In an embodiment, the circuit system specifically includes one or more computing devices, such as a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a system on a chip (SoC), etc., or any combination thereof, and may include discrete digital or analog circuit elements or electronic devices, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the circuit system includes a hardware circuit implementation (e.g., an implementation in an analog circuit system, an implementation in a digital circuit, etc. and a combination thereof).

[0102] In an embodiment, the circuit system includes a combination of circuits and a computer program product having software or firmware instructions stored on one or more computer-readable memories that work together to cause the device to perform one or more protocols, methods, or techniques described herein. In an embodiment, the circuit system includes circuits that require software, firmware, etc. in order to operate, such as a microprocessor or a portion of a microprocessor. In an embodiment, the circuit system includes one or more processors or portions thereof and accompanying software, firmware, hardware, etc.

[0103] The present application may quote quantities and numbers. Unless otherwise specified, these quantities and numbers should not be considered restrictive, but examples of possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. Also in this regard, the present application may use the term "plurality" to refer to quantities or numbers. In this regard, the term "plurality" refers to any number more than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The terms "approximately", "approximately", "close to", etc. refer to plus or minus 5% of the value set forth.

Claims

1. A signal generation system for signal simulation, wherein the signal generation system (10) comprises: - a single data input (18) for receiving scene data, - a pulse descriptor word (PDW) generator unit (14), the pulse descriptor word (PDW) generator unit being used to generate a pulse descriptor word signal, - a multi-frequency signal generator unit (16), the multi-frequency signal generator unit being configured to generate a multi-frequency signal, and - at least one radio frequency output (20), wherein the scene data received via the single data input comprises instructions for the pulse description word generator unit (14) and the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16), wherein the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) is configured to simulate a multi-frequency Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signal, wherein the pulse description word generator unit (14) and the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) are assigned to the single data input (18) in order to process the scene data received via the single data input (18), wherein the pulse description word generator unit (14) is configured to generate pulse description word data internally based on instructions for specific generator behavior of the pulse description word generator unit contained in the scene data received via the single data input (18), wherein the pulse description word generator unit (14) is further configured to process the generated pulse description word data internally so as to generate a pulse description word signal, wherein the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) is configured to generate the multi-frequency signal based on instructions for a specific generator behavior of the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16), and The composite signal is output via the radio frequency output (20), wherein the composite signal includes the multi-frequency signal and the pulse description word signal.

2. The signal generating system according to claim 1, wherein in a first operating mode of the signal generating system (10), the signal generating system (10) is configured to output the multi-frequency global navigation satellite system signal via the radio frequency output (20), and wherein in a second operating mode of the signal generating system (10), the signal generating system (10) is configured to output the pulse descriptor word signal via the radio frequency output (20).

3. The signal generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the signal generating system (10) is configured to be switchable between different operating modes.

4. The signal generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pulse description word generator unit (14) and the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) are configured to be synchronized with each other.

5. The signal generating system according to claim 4, wherein the pulse descriptor word generator unit (14) and the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) are configured to synchronize with each other based on timing information received via the data input (18).

6. The signal generation system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The signal generating system (10) is configured to operate in real time.

7. A method for generating a signal by a signal generating system, the signal generating system comprising a pulse description word generator unit (14) and a multi-frequency signal generator unit (16), the method comprising the following steps: - receiving scenario data via a single data input (18), wherein the scenario data comprises instructions for a specific generator behavior of the pulse description word generator unit (14) and instructions for a specific generator behavior of the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16), - processing the instructions contained in the received scene data by means of the pulse description word generator unit (14) and the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16), - generating pulse description word data internally by the pulse description word generator unit (14) based on instructions for a specific generator behavior of the pulse description word generator unit (14) contained in the scene data received via the single data input (18), and processing the generated pulse description word data internally in order to generate a pulse description word signal, - generating a multi-frequency signal by means of the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) based on instructions for a specific generator behavior of the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16), and - outputting an output signal via a radio frequency output (20) of the signal generation system, wherein the output signal is a composite signal comprising the multi-frequency signal and the pulse descriptor signal. The method of claim 7 , wherein the scene data further comprises timing information.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the timing information is processed by the pulse descriptor word generator unit (14) and / or the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) so as to be synchronized with each other in terms of time associated with outputting the output signal.

10. The method according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the output signals have different frequency bands. The method of claim 10 , wherein the different frequency band is allocated to the L-band.

12. The method according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the output signal is a coherent output signal.

13. The method according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the instructions for specific generator behaviors of the pulse description word generator unit (14) and / or the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) correspond to motion data or subject masking for signal and / or waveform calculations.

14. A signal generation system for signal simulation, wherein the signal generation system (10) comprises: - a single data input (18) for receiving scene data, - a pulse descriptor word (PDW) generator unit (14), the pulse descriptor word (PDW) generator unit being used to generate a pulse descriptor word signal, - a multi-frequency signal generator unit (16), the multi-frequency signal generator unit being configured to generate a multi-frequency signal, and - at least one radio frequency output (20), wherein the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) is configured to simulate a multi-frequency Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signal, wherein the pulse description word generator unit (14) and the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) are assigned to the single data input (18) in order to process the scene data received via the single data input (18), wherein the pulse description word generator unit (14) is configured to generate pulse description word data internally based on instructions for specific generator behavior of the pulse description word generator unit contained in the scene data received via the single data input (18), wherein the pulse description word generator unit (14) is further configured to process the generated pulse description word data internally so as to generate a pulse description word signal, wherein the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) is configured to generate the multi-frequency signal based on instructions for a specific generator behavior of the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16), the instructions for the specific generator behavior of the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) also being included in the scenario data received via the single data input (18), and The at least one radio frequency output (20) is allocated to the pulse descriptor word (PDW) generator unit (14) and the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16), so that the corresponding signals generated by the pulse descriptor word (PDW) generator unit (14) and the multi-frequency signal generator unit (16) are output via the radio frequency output (20).

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