Atomic Oscillator Timing Signal Correction via Temperature-Based DDS
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing timing signal generation devices face challenges in maintaining high precision over time due to frequency-temperature characteristics, especially with atomic oscillators used in precise applications like terrestrial digital broadcasting and portable phone base stations, where linearity issues lead to deteriorated correction accuracy and complex control requirements.
Innovation Solution
A timing signal generation device incorporating a reference timing signal output unit, an atomic oscillator, a voltage adjustment unit, a temperature sensor, a frequency conversion unit, and a control unit that adjusts the frequency conversion based on temperature sensor outputs, utilizing a direct digital synthesizer or fractional phase synchronization circuit to correct frequency fluctuations and maintain precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If voltage signal correction is applied to crystal oscillator based on temperature, then frequency stability is improved, but correction accuracy deteriorates over time due to poor linearity between output frequency and voltage value
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a frequency conversion unit as an intermediary between the atomic oscillator and the output. This unit converts the clock signal frequency while allowing the control unit to apply temperature-based correction more effectively, overcoming the linearity issues that plague direct voltage correction methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters by using frequency conversion instead of direct voltage adjustment. The frequency conversion unit allows for more precise control and correction of the output frequency based on temperature variations, maintaining correction accuracy over time
2Measurement precision
If atomic oscillator is used for highly precise timing signal generation, then timing precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to temperature compensation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The frequency conversion unit serves multiple functions: it converts the clock signal frequency, enables temperature-based correction, and maintains timing precision. This multi-functional component reduces overall device complexity by consolidating several requirements into a single unit
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical temperature compensation mechanisms with an electronic frequency conversion system. The frequency conversion unit provides temperature compensation through electronic control rather than mechanical adjustment, simplifying the overall device structure
3Duration of action of stationary object
If frequency conversion is applied to atomic oscillator output, then long-term precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The frequency conversion unit acts as a strategic intermediary that, while adding a component, provides substantial functional benefits. It enables long-term precision maintenance by allowing continuous frequency adjustment based on temperature, outweighing the complexity cost of the additional component
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables the generation of highly precise timing signals for extended periods, even with temperature fluctuations, by accurately correcting frequency-temperature characteristics, thus improving long-term stability and reducing the need for complex correction data.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature sensor that outputs a signal depending on the temperature of the atomic oscillator
Implementation Method 2
a frequency conversion unit that converts a frequency of the clock signal, and outputs a signal obtained by the frequency conversion
Data Source
AI summary
A timing signal generation device includes a GPS receiver, an atomic oscillator, a phase comparator, a loop filter, and a divider, a temperature sensor, a DDS, and a DSP. The GPS receiver outputs a reference timing signal. The atomic oscillator outputs a clock signal in accordance with an input voltage value. The phase comparator, the loop filter, and the divider adjust the voltage value in accordance with a synchronization status between the reference timing signal and the clock signal. The temperature sensor outputs a signal depending on the temperature of the atomic oscillator. The DDS converts the frequency of the clock signal and outputs a signal obtained by converting the frequency. The DSP controls the DDS based on an output of the temperature sensor.