RF Satellite Chain Distortion Correction via Automated Equalizer Tuning

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Solution Overview

Problem

In satellite broadcasting, existing methods for correcting distortions in the RF signal transmission chain are inefficient, as analog equalizers require tedious manual tuning of multiple filters, leading to suboptimal performance and prolonged adjustment times.

Innovation Solution

A system that digitizes RF signals, processes them to determine signal parameters and inverse responses, and configures analog equalizers using a mathematical model to compensate for distortions, allowing for precise tuning of filter stages to achieve a desired response.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual tuning of analog equalizer filters is used, then the system can compensate for signal distortions, but the tuning process is time-consuming and difficult to optimize

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal qualityVSAvoidtuning time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical tuning of analog equalizer filters with an automated computer-controlled system. The computer automatically adjusts the filter tuning parameters based on measured signal characteristics, eliminating the time-consuming manual trial-and-error process while achieving optimal signal quality compensation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system measures the actual signal distortions in the RF chain, processes this information through a computer, and automatically adjusts the equalizer filter parameters accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system enables rapid optimization of signal quality without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If multiple filters are tuned manually to achieve desired equalizer response, then signal distortions can be compensated, but the iterative adjustment process is complex and often fails to reach optimal performance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveequalizer performanceVSAvoidtuning process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables the equalizer system to self-adjust and self-optimize through automated computer control. The system independently measures signal characteristics, calculates optimal filter parameters, and adjusts the equalizer without requiring external manual intervention, thereby simplifying the complex iterative tuning process and achieving optimal performance reliably.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary measurement and analysis of signal distortions before adjusting the equalizer filters. The computer system pre-calculates the optimal filter tuning parameters based on the measured signal characteristics, allowing the system to directly configure the equalizer without requiring multiple iterative adjustments, thus reducing complexity and achieving optimal performance efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If stand-alone RF analysis instruments are used, then signal quality can be measured, but the equipment is expensive and not practical for field deployment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal analysis accuracyVSAvoiddeployment feasibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a multi-functional system where a computer with software performs multiple functions: it measures signal characteristics, analyzes distortions, calculates equalizer parameters, and controls the equalizer adjustment. This universal system replaces multiple specialized instruments (signal analyzer, equalizer, computer) with a single integrated solution that is cost-effective and deployable in field conditions while maintaining measurement precision.

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

Data Source

PatentUS7925231B2Passive system and method to determine distortion in an RF satellite chain
Publication Date: 2011.04.12 DIRECTV LLC
  • US7925231B2 patent drawing
  • US7925231B2 patent drawing
  • US7925231B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system 10 that is used for analyzing a broadcast system includes a receiving device 60 that generates a baseband demodulated RF signal and digitizes the RF signal to form a digitized signal. A data capture module such as the IQ monitor board 90 is coupled to the receiving device 60 for acquiring samples of the digitized signal. A computer is communication with the data capture module. The computer processes the samples of the digitized signal to obtain a broadcast system response and an inverse broadcast system response. The display generates a display corresponding to the broadcast system response and the inverse system response.