Resilient RF Channel Modulation Using Digital IQ Combining
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Solution Overview
Problem
The number of digitally modulated RF channels in communication systems is limited by current digital modulation technologies, and there is a need for increased resilience to minimize communication service outages.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves combining one or more RF passbands in the analog domain and optimizing communication systems by digitally combining modulated channels in the digital domain, using edge modulators with IQ generators to increase channel capacity and implement resiliency through backup interfaces and network management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If digital modulation is used to transfer digital serial data over RF passband waveform, then communication robustness and security are improved, but the number of RF channels that can be transmitted is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the modulation process by separating IQ generation from RF modulation. The IQ generator produces multiple independent IQ streams that can be independently switched and combined, allowing multiple digital channels to be generated and transmitted simultaneously without interfering with each other's robustness
Solution Approach 2:
The IQ generator serves multiple functions: it generates IQ data for multiple different RF channels, provides backup IQ streams for resiliency, and supports both unicast and broadcast transmissions. This multi-functionality increases the number of transmittable channels while maintaining communication robustness through the same fundamental modulation mechanism
2Productivity
If the number of digitally modulated RF channels is increased, then channel capacity is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the IQ generation function with the modulation system, allowing multiple IQ streams to be combined in the digital domain before RF conversion. This consolidation enables multiple channels to share common generation and control infrastructure, increasing channel capacity while managing system complexity through integration rather than multiplication of separate systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary switching mechanism that selectively combines multiple IQ streams from a single generator. This intermediary layer allows flexible channel configuration and backup routing without requiring separate modulation systems for each channel, thereby increasing channel capacity while keeping system complexity manageable through centralized control
3Reliability
If backup interfaces are implemented for resiliency, then service outage resistance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates backup IQ streams as digital copies from the same IQ generator. These copied streams serve as redundant pathways that can be activated upon failure. The copying approach provides resiliency without requiring entirely separate backup systems, thereby improving service outage resistance while limiting the increase in device complexity to only the necessary switching and selection mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatuses can provide a plurality of RF channels and outputs using digital modulation and combining. In various examples, generation of digital IQ packetized data in combination with digital switching can increase the number of RF modulated channels, optimize broadcast transmission and/or provide transmission resiliency.