Linear Discrete-Time Oscillator Signal Synthesis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional modulation and demodulation mechanisms in communication systems are inflexible, lacking the ability to efficiently adjust frequency, gain, and phase characteristics of oscillating signals.

Innovation Solution

A linear discrete-time oscillator is used to synthesize an oscillating signal with selectable frequency, gain, and phase characteristics, allowing for a single complex multiplication operation to mix the signal with an information signal, thereby altering its characteristics without requiring multiple multiplication stages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional modulation and demodulation mechanisms are used, then signal processing can be performed, but the system lacks flexibility in adjusting frequency, gain, and phase characteristics

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in adjusting frequency, gain, and phase characteristicsVSAvoidcircuit complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by using a linear discrete-time oscillator where frequency, gain, and phase characteristics are controlled through programmable parameters rather than fixed circuit components. The oscillator equations allow dynamic adjustment of these parameters to achieve flexible signal modulation and demodulation without requiring complex reconfiguration of the circuit architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by designing a single linear discrete-time oscillator that can perform multiple functions including frequency modulation, phase modulation, and gain control. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated circuits for each modulation type, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high adaptability.

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

2Manufacturing precision

If multiple multiplication stages are used to alter signal characteristics, then precise control is achieved, but circuit complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision in signal characteristic controlVSAvoidnumber of multiplication stages
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple signal processing functions into a single linear discrete-time oscillator structure. By combining frequency control, phase control, and gain control into one unified oscillator system, the patent achieves precise control over signal characteristics without requiring multiple separate multiplication stages, thereby reducing circuit complexity while maintaining manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP2579121B1Apparatus, and associated method, for forming a synthesized oscillating signal
Publication Date: 2020.12.02 BLACKBERRY LTD
  • EP2579121B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2579121B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2579121B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

An apparatus, and an associated method, for synthesizing a discrete-valued oscillating signal. Input parameters are provided that are determinative of the frequency, gain, and phase characteristics of the resultant, oscillating signal. The discrete-valued, oscillating signal is combinable with another signal to form a mixed signal of a desired frequency, gain, and phase characteristic using a single complex multiplication operation.