Multimode FM Transceiver Architecture for Shared Signal Processing

Solution Overview

Problem

Portable music players face increased complexity and die area due to performing various signal processing operations like FM modulation, demodulation, and analog-to-digital conversions, which are not efficiently managed by existing transceivers.

Innovation Solution

A multimode FM transceiver that reuses hardware components for different signal processing modes, such as FM transmission, reception, and audio modes, using a processor and converters to handle both digital and analog signals, reducing complexity and size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a transceiver performs multiple signal processing operations (FM modulation, demodulation, analog-to-digital conversions), then the signal processing capability is improved, but the die area and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal processing capabilityVSAvoidcomplexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal transceiver architecture where a single processor and converter components perform multiple signal processing functions including FM modulation, demodulation, and analog-to-digital conversions. The processor is configured to execute different signal processing operations based on operational mode, eliminating the need for separate dedicated hardware for each function and thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatile signal processing capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a transceiver performs multiple signal processing operations (FM modulation, demodulation, analog-to-digital conversions), then the signal processing capability is improved, but the die area increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal processing capabilityVSAvoiddie area

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple signal processing functions into a single integrated transceiver chip. The processor and converter components are combined in one semiconductor package, sharing common hardware resources and infrastructure. This consolidation reduces the total die area compared to having separate dedicated components for each signal processing operation, while still providing comprehensive FM modulation, demodulation, and conversion capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If separate hardware components are used for each signal processing function, then the signal processing capability is improved, but the device complexity and size increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal processing capabilityVSAvoidsize

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal transceiver architecture where a single processor and converter components perform multiple signal processing functions including FM modulation, demodulation, and analog-to-digital conversions. The processor is configured to execute different signal processing operations based on operational mode, eliminating the need for separate dedicated hardware for each function and thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatile signal processing capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8521099B2Transceiver having multiple signal processing modes of operation

Publication Date: 2013.08.27 SILICON LABORATORIES INC

AI summary

A transceiver includes a processor, which is adapted to in a transmit mode of the transceiver, form at least part of a transmitter and in a receive mode of the transceiver, form at least part of a receiver. The transceiver may include at least one analog-to-digital converter to provide digital signals to the processor in both the transmit and receive modes of operation; and the transceiver may include at least one digital-to-analog converter to receive digital signals from the processor in the transmit and receive modes of operation. The processor may be fabricated on an integrated circuit with at least one of the analog-to-digital converters and/or with at least one of the digital-to-analog converters.