Quantized Signal Correlation for High-Speed Moment Estimation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing high-speed communication signal processing systems face challenges in moment estimation due to deterministic quantization errors, which are not adequately addressed by conventional methods that require separate noise sources, add complexity, or have poor sensitivity and high costs.

Innovation Solution

The proposed solution involves using attenuators to process analog signals without distorting waveforms, and slicers that introduce Gaussian noise to generate quantized signals, eliminating the need for separate dithers and leveraging inherent noise for moment estimation, with an XOR gate and counter for integration and correlation calculation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional moment estimation methods are used, then deterministic quantization errors are addressed, but separate noise sources are required adding complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemoment estimation accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses its own inherent quantization noise rather than requiring external noise sources. The quantization process naturally generates Gaussian-distributed noise that can be utilized for moment estimation, eliminating the need for separate dithering circuits or noise injection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the harmful deterministic quantization error into a beneficial random Gaussian noise source. By accepting the quantization noise as an inherent property of the system and utilizing its statistical properties, the method transforms what was previously considered an error source into a useful resource for accurate moment estimation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

2Measurement precision

If separate noise sources are added to address quantization errors, then moment estimation can proceed, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemoment estimation accuracyVSAvoidnoise source requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The quantizer itself serves dual purposes: performing the necessary signal quantization while simultaneously generating the noise required for moment estimation. This self-service approach eliminates external noise generation components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The quantization device performs multiple functions: it quantizes the input signal for normal operation and simultaneously generates the statistical noise distribution needed for moment estimation. This multi-functionality reduces the overall component count and system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If high precision moment estimation is achieved, then accuracy improves, but system cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemoment estimation accuracyVSAvoidsystem cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The method uses inexpensive standard quantizers operating at their natural resolution rather than requiring high-precision analog-to-digital converters or specialized measurement equipment. The quantization noise, previously considered waste, is repurposed for measurement, eliminating the need for expensive precision instrumentation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

By utilizing the inherently present quantization noise rather than requiring additional expensive noise generation hardware or high-precision measurement equipment, the system achieves accurate moment estimation at low cost. The approach transforms a limitation of low-cost quantizers into a measurement advantage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

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

This approach simplifies signal processing by eliminating the need for separate noise sources, reduces complexity, and achieves effective moment estimation with controlled signal-to-noise ratios, improving the accuracy and efficiency of high-speed communication systems.

Implementation Method 1

The first slicer introduces Gaussian noise to the first attenuated signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGaussian noise introduction:

Implementation Method 2

The second slicer introduces Gaussian noise to the second attenuated signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGaussian noise introduction:

Data Source

PatentUS10637693B1Method and apparatus for high speed mixed moment estimation using quantization
Publication Date: 2020.04.28 MELLANOX TECHNOLOGIES LTD(IL)
  • US10637693B1 patent drawing
  • US10637693B1 patent drawing
  • US10637693B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments are disclosed for moment estimation in high-speed electrical signal processing. An example apparatus includes a first attenuator configured to attenuate a first analog signal to be integrated so as to generate a first attenuated signal. The apparatus further includes a second attenuator configured to attenuate a second analog signal to be integrated so as to generate a second attenuated signal. The apparatus further includes a first slicer configured to directly receive the first attenuated signal from the first attenuator and to slice the first attenuated signal to generate a first quantized signal. The first slicer introduces Gaussian noise to the first attenuated signal. The apparatus further includes a second slicer configured to directly receive the second attenuated signal from the second attenuator and to slice the second attenuated signal to generate a second quantized signal. The second slicer introduces Gaussian noise to the second attenuated signal. The apparatus further includes an exclusive or (XOR) gate configured to receive the first quantized signal and the second quantized signal as input. The apparatus further includes an integrator configured to receive an output of the XOR gate, wherein an output of the integrator is used for moment estimation.