Link 16 Terminal EMC Monitoring via Direct Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Link 16 terminals face challenges in ensuring compliance with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) features and requirements for frequency-hopping transmissions, particularly in preventing RF interference with civilian systems, which existing technologies have not adequately addressed.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a Link 16 terminal device with direct conversion receiver and transmitter circuits, coupled with a signal processor and switches, allows for real-time monitoring and processing of transmit signals to ensure compliance with EMC features, using a direct conversion technique that conserves RF linearity and includes a coupler for signal coupling and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional monitoring methods are used for Link 16 transmissions, then the system structure is simpler, but the ability to accurately monitor and ensure EMC compliance is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the transmit signal generation and monitoring functions into a single terminal device. The direct conversion receiver circuit is integrated with the transmitter circuit, allowing the terminal to monitor its own transmit signals internally without requiring separate external monitoring equipment, thus improving measurement precision while controlling device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a coupler as an intermediary component between the transmitter output and the direct conversion receiver circuit. The coupler selectively couples a portion of the transmit signal to the receiver circuit for monitoring, enabling accurate EMC compliance measurement without directly interfering with the main transmit signal path.
2Reliability
If the transmit signal is monitored for compliance, then EMC requirements are ensured, but the device complexity increases due to additional circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The direct conversion receiver circuit serves multiple functions: it processes received Link 16 signals during receive mode and simultaneously monitors transmit signals for EMC compliance during transmit mode. This multi-functionality ensures EMC reliability while minimizing the addition of dedicated monitoring circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal device monitors its own transmit signals using its internal direct conversion receiver circuit, eliminating the need for separate external monitoring equipment. The terminal performs self-diagnosis and compliance verification, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If direct conversion technique is used, then RF linearity is conserved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring signals increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional superheterodyne conversion mechanisms with direct conversion technology, eliminating intermediate frequency stages and preserving RF linearity. The direct conversion receiver directly converts the RF transmit signal to baseband for monitoring, maintaining signal integrity while using digital signal processing to handle the measurement complexity.
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
This solution enables effective monitoring and compliance with Link 16 transmission requirements, reducing RF interference and ensuring reliable operation within the specified frequency band, thereby enhancing the operational efficiency and safety of Link 16 terminals.
Implementation Method 1
A coupler may be coupled to the output of the direct conversion transmitter circuit... The coupler and the second switch, between the direct conversion transmitter circuit and the direct conversion receiver circuit to provide a signal that is coupled to the transmit signal by the coupler
Implementation Method 2
Direct conversion may be performed in the direct conversion receiver circuit on the coupled transmit signal to produce a second signal
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a Link 16 terminal having a receiver and a transmitter. The receiver may be configured to process received signals in a receive mode to produce digitized samples, which may then be processed in a digital signal processor. The transmitter may be configured to produce a transmit signal that is provided to an antennas for transmission during transmit mode. The transmit signal may also be provided to the receiver in transmit mode to produce digitized samples of the transmit mode, may then be processed in a digital signal processor for compliance with requirements for Link 16 transmissions.