Dynamic Clock Frequency Alignment for RF Interference Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with wireless communications circuitry face challenges in reducing radio-frequency interference between clock signals and receiver frequencies, leading to potential operational failures due to signal collisions, which existing shielding and filtering methods may not adequately address, especially in small-form-factor devices where space and cost are concerns.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating adjustable phase-locked loop circuitry in clock sources to dynamically align interferer frequencies with the center of the communications channel, utilizing notch filters in direct conversion receivers to attenuate interference signals, thereby minimizing disruptions to radio-frequency receivers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If extensive electromagnetic shielding and filtering components are used to reduce signal collisions, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the frequency parameter of the clock source dynamically. The clock source frequency is adjusted based on the received channel frequency to ensure that harmonic frequencies do not overlap with the received signal band. This parameter adjustment eliminates the need for extensive shielding and filtering components while maintaining signal collision reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by monitoring the received channel frequency and using this information to adjust the clock source frequency. The control circuit receives channel frequency information and dynamically adjusts the clock source to maintain proper frequency alignment, thereby reducing signal collisions without adding complex shielding structures.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conductive enclosures are added for electromagnetic shielding, then signal interference is reduced, but space consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of adding physical shielding enclosures that consume space, the patent changes the operational parameters of the clock source. By dynamically adjusting the clock frequency based on the received channel, the system eliminates signal interference through frequency management rather than physical barriers, thus preserving device space.
3Reliability
If filtering components are used to minimize signal interference, then reliability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent avoids the cost of additional filtering components by changing the clock source frequency parameter. The control circuit adjusts the clock frequency to align with the received channel, which naturally prevents interference without requiring expensive filtering hardware. This parameter-based solution reduces manufacturing cost while maintaining reliability.
4Device complexity
If clock frequency is fixed, then device complexity is reduced, but signal collision risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static clock frequency into a dynamic parameter. The clock source frequency is no longer fixed but is instead adjusted in real-time based on the received channel frequency. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to avoid signal collisions automatically, improving reliability without significantly increasing complexity since the adjustment is done through control circuit logic.
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
This approach effectively reduces or eliminates undesirable radio-frequency interference by dynamically adjusting clock signals to align with the communications channel's center frequency, ensuring reliable operation of electronic devices without the need for extensive shielding or costly filtering components.
Implementation Method 1
The receiver may include notch filters that attenuate signals in the center of the communications channel that is being received
Data Source
AI summary
Electronic devices contain radio-frequency receivers such as direct conversion receivers. A receiver may receive radio-frequency antenna signals from an antenna in an electronic device. The receiver may include notch filters that attenuate signals in the center of the communications channel that is being received by the receiver. An electronic device may include a clock source. The clock source may be used to clock electrical components in the electronic device. During operation, the clock source may produce radio-frequency interference signals at an associated interferer frequency. The potential for the interference signals to disrupt operation of the receiver can be reduced by configuring the electronic device so that the interferer frequency is aligned with the center of the communications channel. The clock source may be adjusted dynamically to accommodate changes in the communications channel.