Programmable Tracking Device with FPGA Frequency Synthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tracking devices face limitations in frequency and modulation flexibility, scheduling, cost, and mass, which restrict their use in various applications, especially in wildlife research and require multiple tags with different frequencies, leading to supply-chain challenges and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A small, lightweight, digitally-controlled tracking device with a programmable frequency synthesizer and flexible modulation formats, allowing configuration of transmission schedules and frequencies, eliminating the need for batteries and crystals, and using solar power for extended runtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional tags use electromechanical frequency crystals to set operating frequency, then each tag operates at a specific frequency, but this requires 10 to 100 different tags for different frequencies, increasing supply-chain complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal tag design with a software-defined radio (SDR) architecture that can operate at multiple frequencies through software configuration rather than hardware changes. The field-programmable gate array (FPGA) allows the same physical tag to be reconfigured for different frequency bands, eliminating the need for multiple frequency-specific tags and simplifying the supply chain.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating frequency parameter through software control of the FPGA and frequency synthesizer rather than through fixed hardware crystals. This allows dynamic reconfiguration of the frequency parameter, enabling a single tag design to adapt to different frequency requirements without physical modification.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional tags use fixed frequency crystals, then manufacturing is simplified for each frequency, but manufacturers must keep many different crystals in stock or wait weeks for crystal fabrication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs frequency configuration in advance through software programming of the FPGA before deployment. The tag can be pre-configured with the required frequency parameters, eliminating the need for last-minute crystal fabrication or stock management. This preliminary software configuration allows rapid production turnaround.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electromechanical crystal-based frequency determination with a software-based frequency synthesis system. This substitution eliminates the physical crystal fabrication and inventory process, allowing frequency changes through software updates rather than hardware replacement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If tags are made larger to include more functionality, then they can support more features, but they become bulky to transport and can only be used by larger objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal tag platform that provides multiple functions (tracking, identification, data transmission, scheduling) through software configuration rather than dedicated hardware for each function. The FPGA-based architecture allows a single compact tag to perform various roles, reducing the need for multiple specialized tags and minimizing overall mass.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple tag functions into a single integrated device. The frequency synthesis, modulation, demodulation, scheduling, and tracking functions are merged into one unified system controlled by the FPGA, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall tag size and weight.
4Reliability
If tags transmit continuously to maximize tracking coverage, then tracking reliability is improved, but battery energy is wasted during downtime when no tracking is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic transmission scheduling where the tag transmits at optimized intervals rather than continuously. The scheduling functionality determines appropriate transmission periods based on tracking requirements, energy availability, and application needs, reducing unnecessary transmissions and battery consumption while maintaining adequate tracking coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the tag to autonomously manage its own transmission schedule based on internal state and external conditions. The scheduling functionality allows the tag to self-regulate its transmission behavior, activating only when necessary and remaining dormant otherwise, thereby optimizing the balance between tracking reliability and energy conservation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device provides flexible and efficient tracking with reduced power consumption, lower costs, and increased application versatility, enabling real-time automated localization without human intervention and supporting thousands of devices simultaneously.
Implementation Method 1
A preferred embodiment employs a field programmable gate array (FPGA) and a programmable frequency synthesizer
Implementation Method 2
A preferred embodiment employs a field programmable gate array (FPGA) and a programmable frequency synthesizer with modulation and demodulation capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
An extremely small, simple, digitally controlled tracking device provides greater transceiver functionality by being programmable across a wide frequency range and various modulation formats with the same circuit components. Additionally, the programmable nature of the tracking device provides reliable scheduling functionality.