Bidirectional Amplifier Detection via Two-Tone Intermodulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting bidirectional amplifiers in cellular networks require physical access, making it impossible to identify their presence when access is restricted, as they are a significant source of interference.

Innovation Solution

A method and system utilizing a two-tone stimulus radio signal transmitted by a detection device, which is processed by the bidirectional amplifier to generate third-order or higher intermodulation products, allowing for over-the-air remote detection without physical access, using a detection device to analyze these products for amplifier identification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If physical access methods are used to detect bidirectional amplifiers, then detection can be performed with simple equipment, but physical access to private properties is required which limits detection capability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection capabilityVSAvoidaccess requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces physical access methods with radio frequency-based detection. Instead of requiring personnel to physically visit premises, the system uses a detection device that transmits two-tone stimulus signals via radio frequency to remotely detect bidirectional amplifiers, eliminating the need for mechanical/physical access while maintaining detection capability

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces radio frequency signals as an intermediary medium between the detection device and the bidirectional amplifier. The two-tone stimulus signals act as mediators that carry detection information through the air interface, enabling remote detection without direct physical contact or access to the target device

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If remote over-the-air detection is implemented, then physical access is not required, but the system becomes more complex requiring signal transmission and intermodulation product analysis

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess flexibilityVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the operational parameters of the bidirectional amplifier by transmitting two-tone stimulus signals at specific frequencies. This causes the amplifier to generate intermodulation products at predictable frequency offsets, transforming the detection approach from direct observation to indirect detection through parameter-based signal analysis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs feedback mechanisms where the detection device transmits stimulus signals, receives the amplified signal with intermodulation products, analyzes the returned signal characteristics, and uses this feedback information to confirm the presence of bidirectional amplifiers. The feedback loop enables automated remote detection without physical intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Enables unambiguous identification of bidirectional amplifiers as interference sources within cellular networks without physical access, facilitating interference hunting and real-time visualization of detection results.

Implementation Method 1

Processing the radio signal by the bidirectional amplifier, thereby amplifying the radio signal while generating third order or higher intermodulation products

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIntermodulation:

Data Source

PatentUS11165451B1Method and system for detecting presence of a bidirectional amplifier
Publication Date: 2021.11.02 ROHDE & SCHWARZ GMBH & CO KG
  • US11165451B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a method for detecting presence of a bidirectional amplifier. At least one radio signal is transmitted by a detection device, the at least one radio signal being a two-tone stimulus. The at least one transmitted radio signal is received by the bidirectional amplifier. The radio signal is processed by the bidirectional amplifier, thereby amplifying the radio signal while generating third order or higher intermodulation products such that an amplified radio signal is generated that includes the third order or higher intermodulation products. The amplified radio signal is transmitted. The amplified radio signal is received by the detection device. The amplified radio signal is analyzed by the detection device, thereby obtaining detection results. Further, a system for detecting presence of a bidirectional amplifier is shown.