LOS and LFPS Signal Detection for Power-Aware Communication Links

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing communication devices face challenges in accurately detecting signals across different operational states, as Loss of Signal (LOS) detection is more accurate but power-consuming, while Low Frequency Periodic Signaling (LFPS) detection is less accurate and power-efficient, making it difficult to maintain effective signal detection in varying power modes.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a method that enables both LOS and LFPS detectors connected to a communications channel, using a digital logic circuit to combine their outputs and generate a combined LFPS output, which controls data communications, with the LOS detector operating in a high-power state and LFPS detector in a low-power state, allowing for accurate signal detection across different frequency ranges.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If LOS detector is used for signal detection, 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 system dynamically switches between LOS detector and LFPS detector based on operational state. In high-power states, the LOS detector is enabled for high accuracy. In low-power states, the LFPS detector is enabled for power efficiency. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by selecting the appropriate detection method based on current power constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the detection parameter (detection method) based on operational state. When transitioning between high-power and low-power modes, the system changes which detector is active, thereby adjusting the detection characteristics to match current power availability while maintaining acceptable performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Use of energy by moving object

If LFPS detector is used for signal detection, then power consumption is reduced, but detection accuracy deteriorates

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

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically selects the detection method based on operational state requirements. When low power consumption is prioritized, the LFPS detector is used. When high accuracy is needed, the system transitions to using the LOS detector. This dynamic selection allows the system to optimize for either power or accuracy depending on current needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system periodically evaluates operational state and transitions between detection methods accordingly. By monitoring power state and switching detectors at appropriate intervals or state transitions, the system achieves optimal balance between power consumption and detection accuracy over time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Adaptability or versatility

If both LOS detector and LFPS detector are enabled simultaneously, then detection coverage is improved, but power consumption and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection coverageVSAvoiddetector configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Rather than statically enabling both detectors, the system dynamically enables only the appropriate detector based on current operational state. This dynamic approach maintains comprehensive detection coverage across all states while avoiding the permanent complexity of having both detectors always active.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system achieves universal detection capability through a single detector that can operate in different modes depending on state. The detector is designed to function effectively whether in high-power or low-power mode, eliminating the need for separate specialized detectors for each mode and reducing overall system complexity.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11716168B2Communications device and method of communications
Publication Date: 2023.08.01 NXP USA INC
  • US11716168B2 patent drawing
  • US11716168B2 patent drawing
  • US11716168B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of methods of communications, communications devices, and redrivers are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method of communications involves enabling a Loss of Signal (LOS) detector and a Low Frequency Periodic Signaling (LFPS) detector connected to a communications channel, using a digital logic circuit, combining an output of the LOS detector and an output of the LFPS detector to generate a combined LFPS output, and outputting the combined LFPS output and the output of the LOS detector to control data communications through the communications channel.