RFID Transmitter Waveform Measurement Using Equivalent Time Sampling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RFID communication systems require complex and expensive test equipment to ensure that the RF-Field emitted by transmitters complies with standards and regulations, hindering the development and implementation of new applications due to the need for precise measurement of waveforms and parameters like overshoot and undershoot.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a wave shape measurement stage within the transmitter using equivalent time sampling, which allows for internal measurement of the modulated receiver data signal's waveform without external equipment, utilizing a delay stage, mixer, DC compensation, and AD converter to process and analyze the signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex external test equipment is used to measure waveform parameters, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the waveform measurement functionality into the transmitter itself by integrating a delay stage, mixer, and ADC within the transmitter circuitry. This merging eliminates the need for separate external test equipment while maintaining measurement capabilities through internal signal routing and processing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmitter performs self-measurement of its own output waveform parameters using internal components. The delay stage creates a time-shifted version of the carrier signal, the mixer compares it with the modulated signal, and the ADC digitizes the difference for analysis. This self-service approach removes dependency on external measurement devices.
2Measurement precision
If external test equipment is used for compliance testing, then measurement accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transmitter automatically performs compliance testing on its own output signals using integrated measurement components. The system self-evaluates waveform parameters such as overshoot, undershoot, and edge characteristics without requiring external equipment setup or operation, significantly simplifying the testing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The measured waveform parameters are fed back to the control unit, which can automatically adjust transmission parameters to ensure compliance with standards. This closed-loop feedback mechanism eliminates manual measurement and analysis, making the operation simpler while maintaining high accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If traditional measurement methods are used, then measurement precision is maintained, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The transmitter performs waveform measurements in real-time during normal operation rather than requiring separate post-manufacturing testing. The delay stage and mixer continuously monitor transmission parameters, enabling immediate detection and correction of issues, thus accelerating development and implementation cycles while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
By integrating measurement functionality into the transmitter's operational circuitry, the system eliminates the time-consuming process of connecting external equipment and performing separate measurements. The ADC and control unit process measurement data alongside normal transmission data, enabling simultaneous operation and measurement that boosts productivity.
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 solution simplifies the measurement process, reducing the need for external test equipment and enabling faster implementation of new applications by allowing for internal waveform analysis and compliance testing within the transmitter.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna connected to the transmitter stage via a matching circuit to transmit the amplitude modulated transmitter data signal in resonance in the RF-Field over the air
Implementation Method 2
a receiver stage connected via the matching circuit to the antenna to receive the modulated receiver data signal
Data Source
AI summary
A transmitter of an RFID communication system to transmit an amplitude modulated transmitter data signal in resonance in an RF-Field over the air and to receive a modulated receiver data signal, which transmitter comprises: a transmitter stage to generate the amplitude modulated transmitter data signal with a particular frequency and waveform based on a carrier signal generated by a carrier signal stage; an antenna connected to the transmitter stage via a matching circuit to transmit the amplitude modulated transmitter data signal in resonance in the RF-Field over the air; a receiver stage connected via the matching circuit to the antenna to receive the modulated receiver data signal; wherein the transmitter furthermore comprises a wave shape measurement stage to measure the shape of the received modulated receiver data signal with equivalent time sampling.