Integrated Modulator Module for Glitch-Free Carrier Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing integrated circuit devices require external modulator peripherals and additional circuitry for generating modulated signals, which occupy extra space and increase complexity, especially in wireless systems that need various modulation formats and frequencies for communication and control applications.
Innovation Solution
An integrated circuit device with a built-in modulation module that includes a modulation mixer, multiplexers for selecting carrier signals, and synchronization logic to generate modulated signals internally, eliminating the need for external modulators and reducing glitches and spurious noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If external modulator peripherals are used, then modulation functionality is achieved, but device complexity and hardware space increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the modulator peripheral with the microcontroller to form an integrated circuit device. The modulator is merged with the CPU core, shared memory, and I/O resources, eliminating the need for separate external modulator hardware while maintaining full modulation functionality across multiple frequencies and formats
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated modulator is designed to support multiple modulation formats (FSK, PSK, OOK, PWM, PPM, PDM) and multiple frequency ranges simultaneously. It can function as both a communication modulator and a control signal generator for applications like motor speed control and fluorescent lamp dimming, replacing multiple specialized peripherals
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple carrier frequencies are supported, then communication versatility improves, but signal synchronization difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic synchronization mechanisms that monitor the phase and frequency of multiple carrier signals. The modulator uses feedback control to adjust timing and phase of carrier transitions, ensuring clean signal switching between different frequencies without glitches or spurious content, regardless of which frequency is currently active
Solution Approach 2:
The modulator pre-synchronizes carrier transitions before switching between frequencies. By preparing synchronization timing in advance and ensuring carriers are properly aligned before transition occurs, the system prevents signal glitches and maintains clean modulation across all supported frequencies
Data Source
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AI summary
An integrated circuit device has a modulator module that provides a modulation signal comprising one frequency keyed on and off, or alternating between two or more different frequencies or phases that are selected based upon a modulator signal. The one or more frequencies or phases may be selected from a plurality of frequency sources. Switching the one frequency on or off, or between the at least two different frequencies or phases may be synchronized with one or both of the two or more different frequencies or phases so that "glitches" or spurs are not introduced into the modulation signal. The integrated circuit device may also comprise a processor, memory, digital logic and input-output. Frequency sources may be internal to the digital device or external. The modulator signal may comprise serial data generated from the digital logic and/or processor of the digital device.