Relative Phase Detection Circuit Without Frequency Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phase detection devices for high-frequency band signals require complex hardware and high power consumption due to frequency conversion processes, which complicates impedance mismatch correction in communication systems.
Innovation Solution
A phase detection apparatus and method that utilizes a signal superposition unit to switch input signals through sensing resistors or capacitors, generating a differential signal based on phase delay, minimizing circuit complexity and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If frequency conversion process is used to detect phase of reflected wave, then phase detection capability is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the necessary phase detection function from the complete frequency conversion system. By removing the mixer and local oscillator components, it retains only the essential elements (sensing resistor/capacitor and phase detector) needed to measure reflected wave phase, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of converting RF to IF through mixing as in conventional systems, the patent inverts the approach by directly detecting phase at RF frequency using a sensing resistor or capacitor followed by a phase detector. This reverse methodology eliminates the need for frequency conversion hardware while achieving the same phase measurement objective
2Measurement precision
If frequency conversion process is used to detect phase of reflected wave, then phase detection capability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the power-intensive mixer and local oscillator from the system, extracting only the essential phase detection functionality. This elimination of high-power components directly reduces overall power consumption while preserving the ability to detect reflected wave phase information
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a sensing resistor or capacitor that can be easily replaced or integrated, along with a simple phase detector, replacing the complex and power-hungry frequency conversion chain. This substitution with simpler, lower-power components achieves the same measurement function with significantly reduced energy consumption
3Device complexity
If simple structure is used for phase detection, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sensing resistor or capacitor as an intermediary element that converts the reflected wave signal into a form suitable for direct phase detection. This intermediary component enables accurate phase measurement without requiring complex frequency conversion circuitry, thus maintaining measurement precision while simplifying the overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electronic frequency conversion system (mixers, oscillators) with a direct detection approach using a sensing element and phase detector. This substitution eliminates the need for complex signal processing hardware while maintaining the ability to accurately measure phase, achieving both simplicity and precision
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
Enables efficient phase detection with a simple structure and low power consumption, addressing the complexity and power issues of existing devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first input signal and a second input signal passing through a sensing resistor or a sensing capacitor
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and a method for detecting a relative phase. The apparatus includes: a signal superposition unit configured to receive and switch a first input signal and a second input signal having a phase delay θd with respect to the first input signal so that the first input signal and the second input signal pass through a sensing resistor or a sensing capacitor, respectively, and to superpose and output the passed signals; a signal power detection unit configured to detect power of the signal output from the signal superposition unit; and a differential signal detection unit configured to generate a differential signal for the power of the signal output according to the switching of the first input signal and the second input signal in the signal superposition unit, and to detect the differential signal that changes according to the phase delay θd.