Bidirectional Signal Estimation Without Directional Couplers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for extracting directed signals on bidirectional transmission lines require expensive directional couplers and physical modifications, which are costly and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A device and method using two probes and a signal processor to measure signals at different positions on the transmission line, calculating temporal delays, and computing forward or backward directed signals without the need for directional couplers by analyzing signal differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a directional coupler is physically inserted into the wired transmission line to extract directed signals, then signal directionality is achieved, but device cost increases and transmission line modification is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical directional coupler with a signal processing system. Instead of physically inserting a coupler device into the transmission line, the invention uses two probes to measure signals at different positions and employs digital signal processing (delaying one signal and computing the difference) to extract directed signals. This substitutes a mechanical hardware solution with an electronic/software-based approach, eliminating the need for physical transmission line modification.
2Measurement precision
If a directional coupler is used to extract directed signals, then signal separation by direction is achieved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive probes and standard signal processing components instead of expensive directional couplers. The solution uses off-the-shelf measurement probes and digital signal processing algorithms that can be implemented using conventional, low-cost electronics. This replaces a costly specialized device with affordable, readily available components, significantly reducing the overall system cost while achieving the same signal separation functionality.
3Measurement precision
If directional couplers are inserted into the transmission line, then directed signal extraction is enabled, but impact on transmission line properties increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the necessary measurement information from the transmission line using non-intrusive probes, rather than inserting a directional coupler that permanently modifies the line. The probes take out (measure) the signal at different positions without requiring physical insertion or modification of the transmission line itself. This extraction approach maintains the transmission line's original properties and integrity while still enabling directed signal extraction through subsequent signal processing.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides to an estimation of a directed signal on a bidirectional duplex transmission line without the need of a directional coupler which has to be physically inserted into the wired transmission line. It is for this purpose, that the signals on the transmission line are measured at two separate spatial positions and the directed signals on the wired transmission line are estimated by analyzing the measured signals.