RFID Demodulation Using Hilbert Transform for Sequence Detection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional RFID systems based on load modulation are limited by the achievable data rate and the ratio between the amplitude of the carrier signal and the modulated sequence, which restricts the efficiency of signal demodulation.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the Hilbert transformation of a modulated signal to differentiate between modulated and unmodulated sequences by comparing the Hilbert transformed signal with a reference signal, allowing for the identification of these sequences within the received signal, particularly applicable to load and amplitude modulation in RFID transponder-reader communication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional load modulation demodulation is used, then the system is simple to implement, but the achievable data rate is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata rateVSAvoiddemodulation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a reference signal as an intermediary element to facilitate the comparison and identification of modulated sequences. By generating a reference signal that corresponds to the Hilbert transformed unmodulated signal, the system enables more accurate detection of modulated sequences, thereby improving data rate without requiring complex alternative demodulation architectures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms the demodulation approach by applying the Hilbert transform to the received signal, changing the signal representation from time domain to a transformed domain where modulated and unmodulated sequences can be more effectively distinguished. This parameter transformation enables higher data rates by improving the reliability of sequence identification

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If conventional load modulation is used, then the system is easy to operate, but the ratio between carrier signal amplitude and modulated sequence is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal detection accuracyVSAvoiddemodulation operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces conventional direct amplitude comparison methods with a mathematical transformation approach (Hilbert transform). This substitution allows for more precise detection of modulated sequences by transforming the signal into a domain where the modulation effects are more pronounced and easier to distinguish from the carrier, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining operational simplicity through automated processing

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

3Loss of information

If load modulation with varying load impedance is used, then data can be transmitted from transponder to reader, but signal clarity is reduced due to amplitude limitations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal clarityVSAvoidsignal amplitude
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Hilbert transform to change the parameter representation of the received signal, transforming it from the conventional time-domain amplitude representation to a transformed domain where signal clarity is improved. This parameter change enables better differentiation between modulated and unmodulated sequences, reducing information loss without requiring increased signal power

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 enhances the demodulation process by accurately distinguishing between modulated and unmodulated sequences, thereby improving data rate and signal clarity in RFID communication systems.

Implementation Method 1

generating a Hilbert transformed modulated signal by subjecting the modulated signal to the Hilbert transform

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHilbert transform:

Implementation Method 2

When being close to the reader, then the transponder is inductively coupled to the reader. The reader transmits a magnetic field and the transponder represents a load for the reader

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP2038996B1Method for demodulating a modulated signal, demodulator and receiver
Publication Date: 2009.11.25 NXP BV
  • EP2038996B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2a
  • EP2038996B1 patent drawingFigure 2b~2c
  • EP2038996B1 patent drawingFigure 2d~3

AI summary

A demodulator (6) for demodulating a modulated signal (3) comprises a Hubert transformer (7) for generating a Hubert transformed modulated signal (18) of the modulated signal (3). The Hubert transformed modulated signal (18) comprises modulated (5) and unmodulated signal sequences (4) and originates from an unmodulated signal. The demodulator (6) further comprises a comparing device (14) for comparing the Hubert transformed modulated signal (18) with a reference signal (15), which corresponds to the Hubert transformed unmodulated signal. The demodulator (6) is further configured to identify the modulated and unmodulated signal sequences (4, 5) based on the comparison.