PLL Ramp Generation with Phase Error Prediction for Fast Settling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Phase-locked loops (PLLs) face challenges in generating ramp signals with fast settling times, particularly in radar applications, where long settling times can lead to frequency overshoot and undershoot, affecting the accuracy of range and velocity measurements.

Innovation Solution

A phase-locked loop with a digital loop filter and an oscillator gain estimation circuit that applies an offset signal to adjust the input signal to the integrator, reducing settling time by predicting phase errors and using a time-to-digital converter for feedback, enabling the generation of ramp signals with settling times of less than 1 microsecond.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If a conventional phase-locked loop is used to generate ramp signals, then the system structure is simple, but the settling time is long causing frequency overshoot and undershoot

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesettling timeVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by predicting the phase error in advance using a phase error prediction circuit. The predicted phase error is calculated based on the current phase detector output and oscillator gain, and this prediction is used to pre-adjust the loop filter output. This allows the system to proactively compensate for phase errors before they fully develop, significantly reducing settling time and preventing frequency overshoot and undershoot.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a phase error prediction circuit as an intermediary element between the phase detector and the loop filter. This prediction circuit acts as a mediator that processes the phase detector output and generates a predicted phase error signal, which is then combined with the actual phase error. This intermediary structure enables the system to anticipate and compensate for phase errors, resolving the contradiction between fast settling time and system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If the settling time is reduced to improve measurement accuracy, then frequency overshoot and undershoot are reduced, but additional circuits are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverange and velocity measurement accuracyVSAvoidcircuit structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by using the phase detector output to continuously update the phase error prediction. The predicted phase error is fed back to adjust the loop filter output in real-time, creating a closed-loop control system. This feedback mechanism ensures that the system continuously compensates for phase errors, improving measurement accuracy while managing complexity through efficient use of existing signals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system applies self-service by using its own internal signals (phase detector output and oscillator gain) to generate the phase error prediction. The phase error prediction circuit utilizes existing system resources without requiring external input, enabling the system to self-correct phase errors and improve measurement accuracy autonomously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If an offset signal is applied to reduce settling time, then frequency accuracy is improved, but the control mechanism becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency ramp accuracyVSAvoidcontrol mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the offset signal parameter based on the predicted phase error. The offset signal magnitude and polarity are modified in real-time according to the calculated phase error, allowing the system to maintain high frequency ramp accuracy. This parameter adjustment is automatically controlled by the phase error prediction circuit, reducing the operational complexity for the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10931290B2Fast settling ramp generation using phase-locked loop
Publication Date: 2021.02.23 ANALOG DEVICES INT UNLTD CO
  • US10931290B2 patent drawing
  • US10931290B2 patent drawing
  • US10931290B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Aspects of this disclosure relate to reducing settling time of a ramp signal in a phase-locked loop. An offset signal can be applied to adjust an input signal provided to an integrator of a loop filter of the phase-locked loop to cause the settling time to be reduced. Disclosed methods of reducing settling time of a ramp signal can improve settling time of a ramp signal independent of the profile of the ramp signal.