Dynamic IF Scaling for Anti-Jamming SPS Radio Receivers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing radio devices face challenges in efficiently managing intermediate frequency (IF) signals due to environmental and operational factors, such as jamming signals and power consumption, which affect their performance and accuracy in processing satellite positioning system (SPS) signals.

Innovation Solution

The method involves dynamically scaling the IF signal frequency based on environment parameters, switching between a first and second center frequency, with the second frequency being higher than the first to mitigate jamming effects and reduce power consumption, using programmable local oscillators and threshold parameters to adjust the frequency in response to wireless signaling environments and device operating modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If the IF signal frequency is lowered to reduce power consumption, then energy efficiency improves, but the device becomes more susceptible to jamming signals

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidjamming susceptibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic IF frequency scaling that adjusts the intermediate frequency based on environmental conditions. The system monitors for jamming signals and dynamically switches between a first IF frequency (lower, more power-efficient) and a second IF frequency (higher, more resistant to jamming). This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to optimize power consumption during normal operation while maintaining resistance to jamming when threats are detected.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the IF frequency parameter in response to environmental conditions. By monitoring environmental parameters and comparing them against threshold values, the system adjusts the IF frequency parameter between two discrete values. This parameter change strategy allows the system to balance power consumption and jamming resistance based on actual operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Object-affected harmful factors

If the IF signal frequency is raised to resist jamming signals, then anti-jamming performance improves, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvejamming resistanceVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the IF frequency based on real-time environmental monitoring. Instead of operating at a fixed high frequency to maintain jamming resistance, the system switches to a lower frequency when jamming conditions are not present, thereby reducing power consumption. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction by making high power consumption conditional rather than constant.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system periodically monitors environmental parameters and adjusts the IF frequency accordingly. This periodic assessment allows the system to maintain jamming resistance only when necessary, rather than continuously operating at high power consumption levels. The periodic switching between frequency states optimizes the balance between security and energy efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Device complexity

If a fixed IF frequency is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to varying environmental conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency control complexityVSAvoidenvironmental adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic frequency selection mechanism that adapts to environmental conditions while maintaining relatively simple device architecture. The system uses environmental parameter monitoring and threshold comparison to dynamically select between two predefined IF frequencies. This approach provides environmental adaptability without requiring complex real-time frequency synthesis or generation circuits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the IF frequency parameter based on environmental conditions while keeping the overall device structure relatively simple. By using predefined frequency values and environmental threshold comparison, the system achieves adaptability without requiring complex frequency generation or synthesis mechanisms. The parameter change is implemented through selective activation of existing frequency generation paths.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 enhances the performance of radio devices by reducing desense due to jamming and minimizing power consumption, thereby improving the accuracy and efficiency of SPS signal processing while maintaining robust operation in varying environmental conditions.

Implementation Method 1

selectively frequency down-converting the received RF signal to either a corresponding first intermediate frequency (IF) signal having a first center frequency, or a corresponding second IF signal having a second center frequency

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFrequency mixing: Heterodyne

Data Source

PatentEP2427968B1Radio device having dynamic intermediate frequency scaling
Publication Date: 2018.04.18 QUALCOMM INC
  • EP2427968B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2427968B1 patent drawingFigure 3~6
  • EP2427968B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

Methods and apparatuses are provided for dynamic frequency scaling of an intermediate frequency (IF) signal within a radio device.