Multi-channel Radio Transceiver Shared Signal Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio transceivers have separate signal paths for different channels operating at different frequencies, which leads to inefficiencies due to the duplication of components.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a first signal path for a first channel operating at a first frequency and a second signal path for a second channel operating at a second frequency, with control means to control frequency-conversion in the second signal path between the second frequency and the first frequency, allowing shared components and efficient processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate signal paths are used for different channels operating at different frequencies, then each channel can be processed independently with dedicated components, but the device complexity increases due to component duplication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a first signal path that can handle both the first channel at the first frequency and the second channel at the second frequency. The frequency converter in the first signal path is configured to perform frequency conversion for both channels, and the processor can process signals from both channels through this single path, eliminating the need for a completely separate second signal path and reducing component duplication while maintaining independent processing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the signal path configuration flexible and reconfigurable. The first signal path can dynamically switch between handling the first channel, the second channel, or both channels at different times. The frequency converter and processor can be dynamically configured to process different frequency ranges and channel combinations based on operational requirements, allowing the system to adapt its structure rather than maintaining fixed separate paths
2Reliability
If separate signal paths with many components are used for different channels, then each channel has dedicated processing capability, but the loss of substance increases due to component duplication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a first signal path that can handle both the first channel at the first frequency and the second channel at the second frequency. The frequency converter in the first signal path is configured to perform frequency conversion for both channels, and the processor can process signals from both channels through this single path, eliminating the need for a completely separate second signal path and reducing component duplication while maintaining independent processing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies merging by combining the functionality of what would traditionally be separate signal paths into a single integrated first signal path. The frequency converter, processor, and associated components are shared between the first and second channels, merging previously separate resource allocations into a unified structure that reduces overall component count and material usage
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 solution enables the sharing of components between different signal paths, reducing redundancy and improving efficiency in radio transceiver operations, while maintaining effective frequency conversion and processing capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
control means for controlling frequency-conversion in the second signal path between the second frequency and the first frequency
Implementation Method 2
the shared frequency synthesizer is a phase-locked loop (PLL) synthesizer comprising a local oscillator and a programmable phase locked loop for providing the output frequency signal
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprising:a first signal path for a first channel operating at a first frequency within a first frequency range;a second signal path for a second channel operating at a second frequency within a second frequency range;control means for controlling frequency-conversion in the second signal path between the second frequency and the first frequency, wherein a magnitude of frequency-conversion is controlled to change in dependence upon a difference between the second frequency and the first frequency.