Closed-Loop Filter Frequency Adaptation via Symmetric Noise Spectra

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rotation rate sensors face challenges in maintaining precise frequency matching between the secondary resonant frequency of the sensor and the primary resonant frequency, especially under temperature changes and production fluctuations, which affects signal-to-noise ratio and stability, particularly when operating in closed control loops.

Innovation Solution

A method that involves feeding the output signal of a delta sigma modulator into a frequency adaptation circuit to determine noise spectra in symmetric frequency bands, comparing these spectra, and generating an adaptation signal to adjust the secondary resonant frequency using the spring softening effect, allowing for continuous adaptation during operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the resonant frequency of the secondary mass is adapted using existing methods, then the frequency matching is improved, but the adaptation requires discontinuous operation or additional signal processing that increases device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency matching precisionVSAvoidsignal processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts only the necessary noise spectrum information from the output signal of the delta-sigma modulator, specifically comparing noise levels in frequency bands above and below the resonant frequency. This selective extraction avoids complex full-spectrum analysis while achieving accurate frequency adaptation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses its own output signal from the delta-sigma modulator to perform self-diagnosis and automatic frequency adaptation. The noise spectrum comparison is performed on signals already present in the system, eliminating the need for external test signals or additional measurement equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If existing frequency adaptation methods are used, then frequency matching is achieved, but the adaptation process disrupts signal readout or requires additional space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency matching precisionVSAvoidcontinuous operation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables continuous frequency adaptation during normal sensor operation. The noise spectrum comparison is performed on the ongoing output signal from the delta-sigma modulator without interrupting the measurement process or requiring the system to exit closed-loop operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The output signal of the delta-sigma modulator serves multiple functions: it provides the measurement output and simultaneously serves as the source for frequency adaptation through noise spectrum analysis. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate test signal paths or additional hardware.

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

3Device complexity

If the resonant frequency is not continuously adapted, then the device structure remains simple, but temperature changes and production fluctuations cause frequency drift affecting signal-to-noise ratio

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol loop structureVSAvoidsignal-to-noise ratio stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the noise spectrum comparison result automatically adjusts the resonant frequency of the second-order system. The adaptation signal is fed back to the filter to continuously correct frequency drift caused by temperature changes and production variations, maintaining optimal signal-to-noise ratio.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes the resonant frequency parameter of the second-order system based on real-time noise spectrum analysis. By adjusting this critical parameter in response to environmental conditions, the system maintains optimal performance without requiring complex structural changes.

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 enables accurate and rapid frequency adaptation with minimal space requirements, maintaining high signal-to-noise ratio and stability without disrupting the signal readout, and can be applied to various sensors and filters.

Implementation Method 1

determining a first noise spectrum of the output signal in a first frequency band and a second noise spectrum of the output signal in a second frequency band

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNoise spectrum analysis:

Implementation Method 2

generating an adaptation signal to adjust the secondary resonant frequency using the spring softening effect

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring softening effect:

Implementation Method 3

feeding an output signal of a delta sigma modulator of the closed control loop into a frequency adaptation circuit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDelta sigma modulation:

Data Source

PatentUS11513135B2Method for automatic frequency adaptation of a filter in a closed loop
Publication Date: 2022.11.29 ALBERT LUDWIGS UNIV FREIBURG
  • US11513135B2 patent drawing
  • US11513135B2 patent drawing
  • US11513135B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method adapts a resonant frequency of a first filter of a closed control loop to a given frequency. The method includes feeding an output signal of a delta sigma modulator of the closed control loop into a frequency adaptation circuit and determining a first noise spectrum of the output signal in a first frequency band and a second noise spectrum of the output signal in a second frequency band. The first frequency band and the second frequency band are arranged symmetrically with respect to the given frequency. The method includes comparing the first noise spectrum with the second noise spectrum, generating an adaptation signal that causes a frequency adaptation of the resonant frequency if the first noise spectrum differs from the second noise spectrum, and outputting the adaptation signal from the frequency adaptation circuit to a control input of the first filter for adapting the resonant frequency.