RF Receiver Signal Type Detection via Pulse Train Classification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Software-defined radios consume large amounts of power due to the need for high-frequency sampling clocks and unnecessary sampling of radio frequency signals, especially in applications like the Internet of Things where power consumption should be minimized.
Innovation Solution
A method that converts radio frequency signals into electric signals, detects voltage levels to generate pulse trains, and uses an artificial neural network to determine the signal type, eliminating the need for sampling and demodulation, thereby reducing power consumption and bandwidth restrictions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-frequency sampling clocks are used to obtain representative digital signals, then measurement precision is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing signal type detection before committing to full sampling and demodulation. The receiver first detects voltage levels and generates pulse trains to identify the signal type, then only proceeds with power-intensive sampling if the signal is relevant. This preliminary classification step avoids unnecessary high-power operations while maintaining accurate signal analysis when needed.
2Reliability
If sampling and demodulation are performed on all received signals, then reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements partial action by performing only the necessary portion of signal processing. Instead of sampling and demodulating all received signals, the system performs partial processing (voltage level detection and pulse train generation) on all signals, then applies full processing (sampling and demodulation) only to signals that pass the initial classification stage. This selective approach maintains reliability for relevant signals while avoiding wasted energy on irrelevant transmissions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the receiver processes all radio frequency signals, then adaptability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the signal processing pipeline into distinct stages: initial voltage level detection, pulse train generation, signal type classification, and conditional sampling/demodulation. This segmented approach allows the receiver to handle multiple signal types (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LTE) through the initial detection stage, then selectively engage power-intensive processing only for compatible signals, thereby maintaining adaptability while reducing overall power consumption.
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 reduces power consumption by determining signal type through pulse trains, avoiding unnecessary sampling and processing, and allows for efficient data reception with minimal power usage, particularly suitable for Internet of Things applications.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna configured to receive a modulated radio frequency signal and a radio frequency-to-digital converter to convert the received radio frequency signal into a raw digital signal
Data Source
AI summary
According to one aspect, an embodiment radio frequency receiver device comprises an input interface configured to receive a radio frequency signal of a given type and convert same into an electric signal, a detector configured to detect at least one voltage level in the electric signal, a pulse generator configured to generate at least one pulse train representative of the voltage levels detected, and a processing unit configured to determine the type of the radio frequency signal from the at least one pulse train.