Selectable GPS Receiver LO for Regional Interference Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
GPS-enabled devices face operability issues when transitioning between countries with different frequency spectrum allocations, leading to suboptimal performance due to interference from local signals like PDC and GSM frequencies.
Innovation Solution
A GPS receiver with a selectable frequency source that adjusts its local oscillator frequency based on geographic location, using a reference frequency source, circuit, and mixer to change the frequency output and minimize interference from PDC and GSM signals, allowing the device to operate effectively across diverse frequency bands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a GPS receiver uses a fixed local oscillator frequency, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot operate effectively in countries with different frequency spectrum allocations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic frequency adaptation by allowing the local oscillator frequency to change based on geographic location. The receiver automatically adjusts its operating frequency when detecting presence in different countries or when interference is detected, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that adapts to environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operating frequency parameter of the local oscillator based on location or interference conditions. By modifying this key parameter dynamically, the receiver can operate effectively across different frequency spectrum allocations in various countries without requiring complete hardware redesign.
2Reliability
If the local oscillator frequency is changed to avoid interference, then GPS signal quality improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the receiver continuously monitors for interference signals (such as PDC or GSM signals) and automatically adjusts the local oscillator frequency in response. This closed-loop control ensures GPS signal quality is maintained while managing complexity through intelligent automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver performs self-diagnosis and self-adjustment by automatically detecting interfering signals and changing its own operating frequency without external intervention. This self-service capability improves reliability while minimizing the need for complex external control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple frequency sources are provided for different regions, then adaptability to different frequency allocations is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single local oscillator circuit multi-functional by enabling it to operate at different frequencies depending on location. Rather than providing separate oscillators for each region, the same hardware component performs multiple frequency functions, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining broad adaptability.
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
The solution enables GPS receivers to adapt their frequency output to optimize signal processing, reducing interference and improving GPS signal quality by determining the presence of interfering signals and switching to appropriate local oscillator frequencies, thus enhancing operational reliability across different geographic regions.
Implementation Method 1
a mixer, coupled to an output of the circuit, for mixing a GPS signal with the output of the circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A selectable frequency source for use in GPS receivers. A device in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises at least one reference frequency source, a circuit, coupled to the at least one reference frequency source, and a mixer, coupled to an output of the circuit, for mixing a GPS signal with the output of the circuit, wherein a frequency output of the mixer is changed based on an input to the circuit.