Programmable ASK Demodulator With Tunable Filter and Thresholds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Developing an ASK demodulator that supports a wide dynamic range and wide frequency range input signal with programmability, while being fast, low current, and fully integrated, is challenging.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a programmable amplitude shift keying (ASK) demodulator with adjustable components, including frequency filters, rectifiers, reference signal generators, current-to-voltage converters, and comparators, utilizing adjustable resistors, capacitors, and current sources to adjust frequency response and current consumption, and incorporating bipolar or CMOS transistors for high-speed and low-power operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable components are added to achieve wide dynamic range and frequency range, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements adjustable resistors, capacitors, and current sources that can be dynamically programmed to change the frequency response and current consumption characteristics of the demodulator. This allows the same hardware to adapt to different frequency ranges and dynamic requirements without physical reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The demodulator is designed with universal components that can handle multiple functions: the adjustable frequency filter works across wide frequency ranges, the rectifier operates with variable current consumption, and the comparator adapts to different signal amplitudes. This multi-functionality achieves wide adaptability without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
2Speed
If programmable components are used to enable high-speed operation, then speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic switching of the adjustable components to achieve high-speed demodulation. The programmable nature allows rapid switching between different frequency and amplitude settings, enabling the system to track and demodulate high-frequency ASK signals effectively
3Use of energy by moving object
If adjustable current sources are implemented to reduce power consumption, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable current source dynamically changes its output current based on the operating conditions and signal characteristics. This allows the demodulator to consume minimal current during low-activity periods while providing sufficient current for high-speed operation when needed, achieving energy efficiency without excessive complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments relate to an amplitude shift keying (ASK) demodulator for demodulating an input signal, including: a frequency filter configured to receive the input signal, wherein the frequency filter includes adjustable components configured to adjust the frequency response of the frequency filter; a rectifier configured to rectify an output of the frequency filter, wherein the rectifier includes an adjustable current source configured to adjust the current consumption of the rectifier; a reference signal generator configured to produce a reference signal; a current to voltage converter configured to convert the current of the rectified signal to a rectified voltage and to convert the current of the reference signal to a reference voltage; and a comparator configured to compare the rectified voltage to the reference voltage and to produce a demodulated output signal.