Frequency-Variable Signal Detection for Wireless Channel Scanning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current spectrum sensing technologies in wireless communication systems are inefficient due to high energy consumption and long processing times, making them unsuitable for low-power, low-cost local wireless communication systems like USNs, which require rapid and accurate frequency channel detection.

Innovation Solution

A local wireless communication system employing frequency-variable signal detection, where a hub divides a frequency band into channels, identifies available channels using a frequency-variable detecting unit with a resonator and varactor diode, and modulates data for transmission over unused channels, minimizing interference and power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional spectrum sensing technologies are used to detect frequency channels, then detection accuracy can be maintained, but energy consumption increases and processing time lengthens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts only the essential detection function from conventional spectrum sensing systems by using a simple resonator-based frequency detection unit that operates independently of complex baseband processing. This extracted approach achieves adequate detection accuracy for unlicensed bands while dramatically reducing energy consumption by avoiding full-digital signal processing chains.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic frequency detection by continuously tuning the resonator frequency across different channels based on detected signal presence. The system dynamically adjusts its detection frequency and hopping patterns based on real-time channel availability, enabling adaptive spectrum access that balances detection accuracy with energy-efficient operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Measurement precision

If conventional spectrum sensing technologies are used to detect frequency channels, then detection accuracy can be maintained, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary frequency detection by rapidly scanning channel frequencies using the resonator before attempting data reception. This preliminary action identifies available channels in advance, allowing the system to immediately tune to valid channels without time-consuming baseband processing delays, thus reducing overall processing time while maintaining detection accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent skips complex baseband processing steps by using the resonator to directly detect carrier frequencies and identify valid channels in the unlicensed band. This rushing-through approach jumps directly to frequency identification without intermediate digital processing stages, significantly reducing detection time while preserving sufficient accuracy for spectrum sensing applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #21Skipping (Rushing through)

3Device complexity

If frequency channels are not properly detected, then system complexity is reduced, but interference between channels increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem complexityVSAvoidinterference
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces the resonator as an intermediary component between the receiver antenna and the baseband processing unit. This intermediary performs frequency selection and validation functions, filtering out invalid channels before they reach the complex baseband processor. This approach maintains low system complexity while effectively preventing interference by identifying and avoiding occupied channels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Measurement precision

If conventional baseband processing is used for signal detection, then detection capability is maintained, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection capabilityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical/electronic baseband processing system with a resonator-based frequency detection mechanism. Instead of using complex digital signal processing circuits that consume significant power, the system uses the natural resonant properties of an LC circuit to detect carrier frequencies. This substitution maintains adequate detection capability for unlicensed band spectrum sensing while dramatically reducing power consumption by eliminating the need for continuous high-power baseband processing.

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

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 rapid detection of available frequency channels, reducing interference and power consumption, making it suitable for low-power local wireless communication systems, particularly in unlicensed frequency bands.

Implementation Method 1

a resonator that variably generates a resonant frequency generated according to a control signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Implementation Method 2

a varactor diode that detects a signal carried on the frequency channel according to a variable resonant frequency of the resonator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitance variation: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS8358587B2Local wireless communication system and method employing frequency-variable signal detection
Publication Date: 2013.01.22 SOONCHUNYANG UNIV IND ACAD COOP FOUND
  • US8358587B2 patent drawing
  • US8358587B2 patent drawing
  • US8358587B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for performing a local wireless communication using a predetermined frequency band divided into a plurality of channels. The system includes a hub for scanning each channel to identify available one of the plurality of channels and transmitting data over the available channel. The system further includes a sensor set to start to operate when the sensor detects a signal within the predetermined frequency band. The sensor spectrum-senses the signal of the frequency band for each channel, and analyzes a header of packet data for each channel, and receives and processes the packet data if the signal is identified to have a designated code.