Multi-Band Radiofrequency Transceiver with Programmable IF Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing satellite communication gateways lack resilience and flexibility in handling multiple polarizations and frequency channel segments, leading to potential component failures and inefficiencies in data transmission and reception.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a satellite gateway with a receiver and transmitter subsystem that utilize multiple polarizations and frequency channel segments, incorporating an intermediate frequency distribution network with programmable routing and cross-switching capabilities, and including switch matrices and radiofrequency switches to dynamically route signals for redundancy and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a satellite gateway uses a fixed signal routing configuration for multiple polarizations, then the system structure is simple, but the system lacks resilience against component failures and cannot dynamically adapt to different operational requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic signal routing using switch matrices that can reconfigure signal paths in real-time. The routing configuration is no longer fixed but can be dynamically changed to bypass failed components or optimize performance, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and complexity by introducing controllable dynamic elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The signal distribution network is segmented into multiple independent switching stages and paths. This segmentation allows individual components to fail without affecting the entire system, as alternative paths can be activated. The complex routing structure is broken down into manageable segments that can be independently controlled and configured.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a satellite gateway implements programmable routing with switch matrices for IF signals, then the system flexibility and adaptability improve, but the device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The switch matrices are designed as universal routing elements that can handle multiple polarizations, frequency channels, and signal types through a single reconfigurable structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated routing paths for each signal type, thereby increasing adaptability while controlling the growth of device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate frequency distribution network acts as an intermediary layer between different signal processing stages. This intermediary structure provides a standardized interface that simplifies the overall system architecture, allowing complex routing capabilities to be achieved through a modular intermediate stage rather than through complex direct connections between all components.
3Reliability
If a satellite gateway uses separate dedicated paths for each polarization, then signal isolation is maintained, but the system cannot provide redundancy or dynamic reconfiguration capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the routing functions for multiple polarizations into a unified reconfigurable switch matrix structure. Instead of maintaining completely separate dedicated paths, the system combines routing capabilities while maintaining signal isolation through controlled switching. This allows redundancy to be achieved by sharing infrastructure resources across polarizations, reducing device complexity while providing backup paths.
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
Enhances resilience and efficiency in data transmission and reception by enabling dynamic selection of signal paths, providing redundancy, and supporting multiple polarizations and frequency ranges, thereby improving system reliability and performance.
Implementation Method 1
downconverters that each provide output for multiple bands. For example, each downconverter can provide multiple intermediate frequency outputs derived from the same radiofrequency input
Implementation Method 2
the transmitter subsystem includes upconverters that each upconvert multiple intermediate frequency input signals to different frequency ranges
Data Source
AI summary
In some implementations, a satellite gateway includes a set of modulators comprising (i) a first modulator to modulate signals for transmission using a first of multiple polarizations, and (ii) a second modulator to modulate signals for transmission using a second of the multiple polarizations. The satellite gateway includes a set of upconverters comprising at least one upconverter for each of the multiple polarizations, wherein each of the upconverters is configured to generate a radiofrequency output by concurrently upconverting multiple intermediate frequency inputs to different frequency ranges. The satellite gateway includes an intermediate frequency distribution network configured to distribute the multiple intermediate frequency output signals from each of the modulators to the inputs of the upconverters. The satellite gateway includes a set of radiofrequency switches that are operable to selectively provide the radiofrequency outputs of the upconverters to antenna feeds for the multiple polarizations.