Dynamic Notching Parameters for PLC Radio Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining notching parameters in Powerline Communication (PLC) systems to avoid interference with radio signals require the PLC system to be switched off or are ineffective in detecting changes in radio signal strength during operation, particularly for shortwave radio frequencies.
Innovation Solution
The method involves determining the signal-to-interference ratio (SIR) of the PLC signal while it is running, evaluating the signal strength of interfering radio signals, and adjusting notching parameters such as center frequency, width, or steepness of notches to minimize interference, allowing for dynamic notching without system inactivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the PLC system is switched off to detect radio signals, then the detection accuracy of radio signals improves, but the system availability and continuous operation capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic notching parameters that can be adjusted in real-time based on detected radio signal conditions. The system transitions from static frequency masking to dynamic adaptation, where notching parameters are modified according to actual interference levels, enabling continuous operation while maintaining protection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (notching parameters) based on detected signal conditions. By monitoring the signal-to-interference ratio and adjusting notching parameters dynamically, the system maintains both continuous operation and effective radio signal protection without requiring complete system shutdown.
2Reliability
If static notching is used to protect radio services, then the coexistence with radio services is guaranteed, but the usable BPL frequency spectrum is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static frequency masking with dynamic notching parameters that adapt to actual radio signal conditions. This allows the system to maintain reliable coexistence with radio services while dynamically adjusting the notched frequency ranges to minimize impact on usable BPL spectrum based on real-time interference assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the signal-to-interference ratio and uses this feedback to adjust notching parameters. This closed-loop approach ensures reliable radio service protection while optimizing the usable frequency spectrum by removing notches only when interference levels permit.
3Quantity of substance
If dynamic notching is implemented for shortwave radio frequencies, then the usable BPL frequency spectrum increases by around 20%, but the detection of short-wave signals becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary detection of radio signals using available gaps in PLC activity or frequency bands before full PLC operation begins. This preliminary action identifies shortwave signals that need protection, enabling subsequent dynamic notching adjustments without requiring complete system shutdown.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the signal-to-interference ratio as an intermediary parameter to indirectly detect and assess shortwave radio signals. By monitoring SIR during normal operation, the system can identify interfering radio signals and adjust notching parameters accordingly, making detection feasible during active PLC operation.
4Reliability
If the SNR is determined to protect shortwave transmitters during operation, then the protection during operation is achieved, but only transmitters with relatively high field strength can be protected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous monitoring of the signal-to-interference ratio during PLC operation, using this feedback to detect radio signals with varying field strengths. This continuous feedback mechanism enables detection and protection of both strong and weak shortwave transmitters that would be missed by threshold-based SNR methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts notching parameters based on the measured signal-to-interference ratio, enabling protection of radio signals across a wider range of field strengths. By changing notching parameters in response to varying interference levels, the system can protect both strong and weak transmitters during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining notching parameters for a PLC (Powerline Communication) signal in a PLC system, wherein frequency ranges are specifically eliminated in the PLC signal by notching and the notching parameters are selected in such a way that an interference of the PLC signal with a radio signal can be largely prevented. In view of determining notching parameters even during the ongoing operation of the PLC system, the method according to the invention is characterized in that a signal-to-interference ratio (SIR) is established for at least one range of the PLC signal and that the signal strength of a radio signal is analyzed as a function of the SIR and notching parameters are determined or adapted based on said analysis. The invention also relates to a corresponding PLC system.