Multi-Path RF Transmitter Switching for Low-Power Signal Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing low power transmitters in sensor networks face inefficiencies in power consumption and signal distortion due to the inclusion of output amplifiers and drivers, which are unnecessary at low power levels and result in increased power consumption and distortion.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multiple signal paths with different gain and frequency settings, allowing for selective activation of paths based on the required power and frequency needed for a given application, minimizing power consumption and signal distortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If output amplifier and driver are included in the RF signal chain, then maximum dynamic range and desired resolution are supported at highest output RF signal amplitude, but power consumption increases unnecessarily at low amplitudes
Solution Approach 1:
The transmitter is divided into multiple signal paths with different gain configurations. A first signal path includes the output amplifier and driver for high power operations, while a second signal path excludes these components for low power operations. Control circuitry segments the signal processing based on required power levels, activating only the necessary path to avoid unnecessary power consumption while maintaining signal resolution when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different signal paths based on the required output power level. The control circuitry activates the first signal path with full amplification for high power requirements and switches to the second signal path without output amplifier/driver for low power requirements. This dynamic reconfiguration optimizes power consumption while maintaining signal quality when needed.
2Reliability
If output amplifier and driver are activated for signal transmission, then sufficient transmission range is achieved, but signal distortion increases at low power levels
Solution Approach 1:
The transmitter architecture segments signal processing into two distinct paths: a first path with output amplifier and driver for high power transmission, and a second path without these components for low power transmission. This segmentation prevents signal distortion at low power levels by avoiding the non-linear characteristics of amplifiers when they operate below their optimal range, while still ensuring sufficient transmission when high power is required.
Solution Approach 2:
Different signal paths are provided with different local qualities - the first path includes full amplification components for situations requiring high transmission power, while the second path provides a simplified signal chain optimized for low power operations with minimal distortion. The control circuitry selects the appropriate path based on local transmission requirements, ensuring optimal signal quality for each operating condition.
3Use of energy by moving object
If multiple signal paths with different gain settings are implemented, then power consumption is minimized by selective activation, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuitry serves multiple functions: it monitors transmission requirements, selects the appropriate signal path, and manages the activation of amplification components. This multi-functional control mechanism manages the complexity of multiple signal paths through a unified control interface, allowing the system to optimize power consumption without proportionally increasing operational complexity. The same control circuitry handles both low and high power path selections, reducing the need for separate control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes multiple signal paths for signal transmission, and control circuitry. The multiple signal paths include a first signal path and a second signal path. The first signal path is configured to convert a digital baseband signal to a first radio frequency (RF) signal having a first frequency and a first gain. The second signal path is configured to convert a digital baseband signal to a second RF signal having a second frequency and a second gain, wherein the second gain is less than the first gain. The control circuitry is coupled to the plurality of signal paths and is configured to receive one or more control signals to enable selective activation of at least one signal path of the plurality of signal paths.