GNSS Receiver Hardware Error Detection via Programmable Amplifier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods are complex and inefficient for real-time detection of hardware errors in GNSS signal transmission paths, particularly in autonomous driving systems, where such errors can compromise safety and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a programmable amplifier and analogue-to-digital converter in the GNSS receiver to regulate signals and detect anomalies, outputting a second reference value when a hardware error is present, allowing for real-time detection without additional testing equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a test body is used to detect hardware errors, then detection capability is improved, but signal quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses its own existing components (programmable amplifier and ADC) to perform self-diagnostics. The programmable amplifier monitors its own input signal levels and the ADC monitors its own conversion results, allowing the system to detect hardware errors in the transmission path without requiring external test bodies or signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a monitoring function that acts as an intermediary between the signal transmission path and the detection system. This monitoring function uses the existing programmable amplifier and ADC to create a feedback loop that detects hardware errors by analyzing signal characteristics, thereby avoiding the need for separate test bodies that would interfere with the main signal.
2Reliability
If real-time detection is implemented, then safety is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing programmable amplifier and ADC multi-functional by adding hardware error detection capability to their原有 functions. The programmable amplifier both amplifies signals and monitors for hardware errors, while the ADC both converts analog signals to digital and detects conversion anomalies. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated detection hardware, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining real-time safety monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the signal processing functions (amplification and conversion) with the error detection functions into a single integrated system. By merging these functions, the patent avoids adding separate detection components and reduces the overall complexity of the system while achieving real-time hardware error detection for safety purposes.
3Measurement precision
If additional testing equipment is used, then detection accuracy is improved, but cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-diagnostics using its own existing components. The programmable amplifier and ADC are used to monitor the signal transmission path and detect hardware errors without requiring external testing equipment. This self-service approach provides accurate detection while avoiding the cost and complexity of additional test devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the existing programmable amplifier and ADC as intermediaries to detect hardware errors. These components serve as both signal processing elements and detection sensors, eliminating the need for separate testing equipment while maintaining detection accuracy through the feedback monitoring mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is for detecting at least one hardware error in at least one global navigation satellite system (“GNSS”) signal transmission path of a locating system. The locating system includes at least one GNSS antenna and at least one GNSS receiver. The at least one GNSS receiver includes a programmable amplifier. An analog-to-digital converter is arranged between the programmable amplifier and a control unit. The method includes receiving a signal using the at least one GNSS antenna, and regulating the received signal using the programmable amplifier associated with the at least one GNSS receiver, such that the received signal is regulated according to a predefinable first reference value. The method also includes outputting a predetermined second reference value when no signal is present, and detecting at least one hardware error in at least one GNSS signal transmission path of the locating system when the second reference value is output.