Programmable LFPS and LOS Detection for Low-Power Signal Sensing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing communication devices face challenges in efficiently detecting Loss of Signal (LOS) and Low Frequency Periodic Signaling (LFPS) with high accuracy while managing power consumption, especially in low-power operational states, requiring a solution that can dynamically scale between low and high-power consumption with minimal complexity and circuit area.

Innovation Solution

A combined LFPS and LOS detector system that includes a low-pass filter, rectifier, and comparator, enabling dynamic switching between high and low-power modes by using programmable capacitors and switches to handle different frequency ranges, allowing both detectors to operate independently based on the device's power state.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If LOS detection is used to detect data communications, then detection accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases

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

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic detection system that can switch between LOS detection mode (high accuracy, high power) and LFPS detection mode (lower accuracy, low power) based on the operational state of the communications device. The system dynamically adjusts the detection mechanism to match the current power state, enabling accurate signal detection while minimizing power consumption during low-power states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameters of the detection circuit by switching between different detection modes (LOS and LFPS) depending on the power state. This parameter change allows the system to optimize the balance between detection accuracy and power consumption, using full LOS detection capability only when necessary.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Use of energy by moving object

If LFPS detection is used to reduce power consumption, then power consumption decreases, but detection accuracy is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoiddetection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically selects between LFPS and LOS detection modes based on the operational state. During low-power states, LFPS detection is used to maintain basic functionality with reduced power consumption, while during high-power states, the system transitions to LOS detection for enhanced accuracy when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The detection system is segmented into two distinct detection paths: LFPS detection for low-power states and LOS detection for high-power states. This segmentation allows each detection mode to be optimized for its specific operational context, with LFPS providing sufficient accuracy at lower power levels and LOS providing high accuracy when power is available.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If both LOS and LFPS detection are always enabled, then detection coverage is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection coverageVSAvoidarchitecture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses dynamic enabling and disabling of detection modes based on operational state. The controller selectively activates either LOS detection or LFPS detection (or both when appropriate) depending on the current power state and communication requirements, avoiding the need for permanently complex dual-detection architecture while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The detection system is designed with multi-functionality, where a single integrated controller can manage both LOS and LFPS detection modes. This universal controller handles different detection requirements through software or state-machine control, reducing hardware complexity compared to having separate dedicated detection circuits for each mode.

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

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 system provides accurate signal detection across a wide frequency range, reducing power consumption by enabling only necessary detection modes, thus optimizing power usage and increasing effective bandwidth without increasing circuit complexity.

Implementation Method 1

a low-pass filter (LPF) coupled to a communications channel and configured to generate a filtered input

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLow-pass filtering: Filter (electronic)

Implementation Method 2

a rectifier coupled to the LPF and configured to generate a rectified signal based on the filtered input

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRectification: Diode

Implementation Method 3

a comparator configured to generate an output based on the rectified signal. In an embodiment, the comparator is further configured to compare the rectified signal with a reference voltage to generate the output

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVoltage comparison:

Data Source

PatentUS20250211273A1Low frequency periodic signaling (LFPS) and loss of signal (LOS) detection
Publication Date: 2025.06.26 NXP USA INC
  • US20250211273A1 patent drawing
  • US20250211273A1 patent drawing
  • US20250211273A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of devices for signal detection, communications devices, and methods for signal detection are disclosed. In an embodiment, a device for signal detection includes a low-pass filter (LPF) coupled to a communications channel and configured to generate a filtered input, a rectifier coupled to the LPF and configured to generate a rectified signal based on the filtered input, and a comparator configured to generate an output based on the rectified signal. Programmable bandwidth and speed provide a wideband signal detector.