Multi-Channel Receiver Module for Stable Broadband Signal Decoding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing receiver modules for broadband data transmission systems face instability and signal disturbances due to high controlling speeds, particularly with recursive AGC algorithms, leading to oscillations and loss of useful signals.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a receiver module with multiple receiving channels, each equipped with an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and a soft-input-soft-output decoder (SISOD), where attenuators are used to ensure overlapping linear operating ranges, and an analysis module selects the optimal channel based on probability quantities to maintain stability and filter out disturbing signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If recursive AGC algorithms are used for fast control of adjustable elements, then controlling speed is improved, but stability deteriorates leading to oscillations and signal loss

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrolling speedVSAvoidsignal stability
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The receiver is divided into multiple parallel receiving channels (at least two channels), each with its own ADC and SISOD. This segmentation allows simultaneous processing of signals at different power levels without requiring fast switching between channels, thus maintaining stability while achieving fast control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically selects which receiving channel to use based on the current input signal power level. The analysis module continuously monitors signal conditions and determines the optimal channel, enabling adaptive response to varying signal conditions without causing instability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If electronically adjustable attenuators and amplifiers are used in AGC, then dynamic range adjustment is improved, but signal disturbances occur due to envelope curve modification at high controlling speeds

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedynamic range adjustmentVSAvoidsignal disturbances
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using a single adjustable attenuator that modifies the signal envelope, the system segments the signal path into multiple fixed-attenuation channels. Each channel has a fixed attenuator setting, and the selection between channels avoids envelope modification while maintaining dynamic range adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The analysis module acts as an intermediary that monitors signal power levels and selects the appropriate receiving channel. This intermediary function allows the system to adapt to different dynamic ranges without directly modifying the signal envelope through fast-switching attenuators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple receiving channels with different attenuators are used to cover broader input power range, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinput power range coverageVSAvoidreceiver structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The receiver is segmented into multiple parallel channels, each handling a specific input power range. This segmentation approach achieves broad adaptability while keeping each individual channel relatively simple, with the complexity distributed across parallel independent paths rather than concentrated in a single complex switching system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each receiving channel is designed with universal components (ADC, SISOD) that can process signals, but with different fixed attenuator settings. This multi-functionality allows the same basic channel structure to serve different input power ranges, reducing overall complexity compared to having completely different processing paths for each range.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11057068B2Receiver module, data transmission system and method for receiving an electromagnetic signal
Publication Date: 2021.07.06 ROHDE & SCHWARZ GMBH & CO KG
  • US11057068B2 patent drawing
  • US11057068B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A receiver module for receiving an electromagnetic signal, including an analog frontend and at least a first receiving channel and a second receiving channel is described. The receiving channels are both connected to the analog frontend, wherein the frontend is configured to receive an input signal including a symbol sequence and to forward the input signal to the receiving channels, wherein the receiving channels each include an analog to digital converter, wherein the second receiving channel includes an attenuator, wherein the first receiving channel and the second receiving channel each include a soft-input-soft-output-decoder, and wherein the soft-input-soft-output decoders each are configured to process the symbol sequence. Moreover, a data transmission system and a method for receiving an electromagnetic signal are described.