Coupled Oscillator Detection of Weak Signals in Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signal detection systems struggle to reliably identify weak signals in noisy environments without prior knowledge of noise characteristics, leading to reduced accuracy and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A nonlinear dynamics-based system of coupled oscillators, modeled by differential equations, is used to detect weak signals by analyzing noise and signal data through distinct dynamical states, employing a system of coupled oscillators with a middle oscillator driven by environmental noise and left and right oscillators driven by a user-selectable frequency, utilizing a detection coefficient P to distinguish signal presence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional linear signal processing techniques are used, then the system is simple to implement, but the detection accuracy of weak signals in noisy environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the linear signal processing approach into a nonlinear dynamic system by changing the fundamental parameter of the processing methodology. The coupled oscillators operate in different dynamical states (synchronized, antisynchronized, or incoherent) based on the presence or absence of weak signals, enabling detection of signals as weak as 0.1 dB above noise floor without requiring complex prior knowledge of noise characteristics
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces coupled oscillators as intermediary elements between the noisy signal input and the detection output. These oscillators act as mediators that amplify the subtle differences between noise-only and signal-plus-noise conditions through their nonlinear dynamic responses, making weak signals detectable through synchronization patterns
2Measurement precision
If prior knowledge of noise characteristics is required, then detection accuracy may improve, but the adaptability to unknown environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is self-adapting through the intrinsic properties of coupled oscillators. The system automatically adjusts to different noise environments by observing the synchronization patterns of oscillators, requiring no external calibration or prior knowledge of noise characteristics. The oscillators themselves serve the dual function of signal processing and environmental adaptation
3Measurement precision
If sensor arrays are used to improve detection precision, then measurement accuracy improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection function across multiple coupled oscillators instead of using multiple physical sensors. Each oscillator processes the same sensor input but contributes differently to the detection through its nonlinear dynamic state, achieving array-like precision through computational segmentation rather than physical segmentation
Data Source
AI summary
A nonlinear design is described to reliably detect very weak signals buried in noisy environments and subject to environmental noises. This design does not require knowledge of prior data and is capable of detecting the amplitude and phase of the weak signal based on the data from a single sensor.