Adaptive Noise Canceller Circuit for DPLL Spur Suppression

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Solution Overview

Problem

Fractional-N frequency synthesizers in digital phase-locked loops face challenges with unwanted low-frequency spurs and noise generation, particularly in accurately determining error gain, which is often addressed by non-adaptive and complex analog circuitry.

Innovation Solution

An adaptive noise canceller circuit using a priority encoder approximation circuit is implemented to suppress noise in a digital phase-locked loop, enabling real-time tracking and efficient noise cancellation through an efficient approximation of the normalized least mean square algorithm, eliminating the need for dividers and reducing complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If analog circuitry is used for noise cancellation, then measurement precision of error gain is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror gain determination accuracyVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces analog circuitry with a digital implementation of the normalized least mean square algorithm. The adaptive noise canceller uses digital signal processing to determine error gain, substituting physical analog components with computational logic that achieves the same measurement precision while reducing circuit complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms the error gain determination from a static analog measurement to a dynamic digital parameter that can be adaptively adjusted. By implementing the normalized least mean square algorithm in the digital domain, the system can change the error gain parameter in real-time based on operating conditions, maintaining precision while simplifying the overall circuit architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If non-adaptive noise cancellation is implemented, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different operating conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit complexityVSAvoidreal-time tracking capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism through the normalized least mean square algorithm, where the error gain determination continuously monitors the output and adjusts its parameters accordingly. This adaptive feedback loop enables the digital circuit to track changing operating conditions in real-time, providing both low complexity and high adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a static, non-adaptive noise cancellation system to a dynamic adaptive system. The error gain parameter is no longer fixed but evolves over time based on the algorithm's continuous optimization, allowing the system to adapt to varying operating conditions while maintaining simple digital circuitry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Measurement precision

If complex circuitry is used for accurate error gain determination, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror gain determination accuracyVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex analog circuitry with a digital algorithm implementation. The normalized least mean square algorithm can be synthesized using standard digital logic cells and processes, making it easier to manufacture with modern CMOS technology while maintaining high measurement precision for error gain determination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS10707881B1Adaptive noise cancellation
Publication Date: 2020.07.07 GLOBALFOUNDRIES US INC
  • US10707881B1 patent drawing
  • US10707881B1 patent drawing
  • US10707881B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a structure including an adaptive noise canceller circuit which is configured to suppress noise in a feedback sigma-delta modulator circuit and provide real-time tracking of a noise cancellation signal.