Digital WIR Demodulator Using CPLD Logic

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing media management products face challenges in demodulating modulated wired infrared (WIR) signals due to the need for analog components, which require an air gap and are not programmable to handle multiple carrier frequencies, leading to space constraints and limited flexibility.

Innovation Solution

A digital WIR demodulator system using a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) with a carrier pulse detector and stretcher, capable of processing modulated WIR signals and generating a baseband IR control signal, eliminating the need for an air gap and allowing programmability across various carrier frequencies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If analog components are used for WIR demodulation, then the demodulation function is achieved, but space requirements increase due to the need for an air gap

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedemodulation functionVSAvoidspace requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the analog mechanical/optical demodulation system with a digital logic-based demodulation system. The digital demodulator uses logic circuits to detect carrier pulses and generate baseband signals, eliminating the need for physical air gaps required by analog IR receivers. This substitution of mechanical/optical components with electronic digital logic directly reduces space requirements while maintaining demodulation functionality.

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

2Ease of manufacture

If analog components are used for WIR demodulation, then the demodulation function is achieved, but adaptability to multiple carrier frequencies is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedemodulation functionVSAvoidcarrier frequency flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic digital demodulator that can adapt to different carrier frequencies through programmable logic. The digital logic circuits can be configured or programmed to detect various carrier frequencies, providing flexibility and adaptability. This dynamic reconfigurability allows the same hardware to handle multiple carrier frequencies without requiring physical changes or multiple dedicated circuits, thereby improving versatility while maintaining the demodulation function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Area of stationary object

If digital logic is used for WIR demodulation, then space requirements are reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace requirementsVSAvoiddigital logic complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs a universal digital demodulator that performs multiple functions within a single integrated logic structure. The digital logic circuits are configured to handle various demodulation tasks and can be programmed for different carrier frequencies, making the system multi-functional. This universality reduces the need for multiple separate circuits or components, thereby reducing overall device complexity despite the inherent complexity of digital logic, while also minimizing space requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7593649B1Method and apparatus for wired infrared demodulation
Publication Date: 2009.09.22 D&M HLDG US INC
  • US7593649B1 patent drawing
  • US7593649B1 patent drawing
  • US7593649B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Method and system for processing a modulated WIR input signal. A digital device includes an input receiving circuit. This circuit receives the modulated WIR input signal and detects a modulation carrier pulse burst in the WIR input signal and generates a valid pulse signal. A pulse generating circuit is operatively coupled to the input receiving circuit and generates a pulse signal of a specific duration based in part on the pulse burst.