Rotary Joint Data Transmission via Frequency Multiplexing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rotating radar systems face limitations in data transmission due to the limited number of physical RF-channels in rotary joints, which restricts the number of information channels that can be used for data transmission between the radar frontend and cabinets, especially on ships.
Innovation Solution
A system that employs frequency multiplexing by using an upstream converter to shift signals into different frequency bands, allowing multiple signals to be transmitted simultaneously over a single physical channel through a rotary joint, utilizing a diplexer to combine and separate signals while maintaining coherence, and optional components like filters and amplifiers to ensure efficient transmission and reception.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the number of physical RF-channels in the rotary joint is increased, then the data transmission capacity is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies frequency transformation by changing the frequency parameter of signals before transmission through the rotary joint. The upstream converter shifts signals to different frequency bands, allowing multiple data streams to be transmitted simultaneously over existing physical channels without increasing rotary joint complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an upstream converter as an intermediary device that performs frequency transformation on signals before they enter the rotary joint. This mediator enables multiple signals to share existing physical channels by converting them to different frequency bands, avoiding the need to modify the rotary joint structure
2Productivity
If frequency multiplexing is implemented to increase RF channels, then data transmission capacity is improved, but signal coherence may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a feedback mechanism where the local oscillator signal is transmitted through the rotary joint and used for down-conversion at the receiving end. This feedback loop ensures that the frequency transformation is reversible and maintains signal coherence, as the same oscillator signal used for up-conversion is available for synchronized down-conversion
Solution Approach 2:
The local oscillator signal serves multiple functions: it is used for frequency transformation at the transmitting end and for frequency transformation at the receiving end. This multi-functionality ensures that the same oscillator can maintain coherence across the entire transmission path while enabling frequency multiplexing
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
Enables the use of more RF channels for data transmission without modifying the rotary joint, allowing parallel data transmission between radar components, enhancing system functionality, and reducing logistical costs by preserving signal coherence and extending the system's capabilities without altering the existing rotary joint design.
Implementation Method 1
a frequency mixer configured to generate the converted second signal by mixing the second signal with the reference signal
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus (100) for transmitting a first signal (10) and a second signal (20) from a radar component to a rotary joint (50) is disclosed. The apparatus (100) comprises a first input or output (111) for the first signal (10); a second input (112) for the second signal (20); an upstream converter (120) configured to convert the second signal (20) into a converted second signal (122) so that the second signal (20) and the first signal (10) lie in different frequency bands; and a diplexer (130) with a first input for the first signal (10) and a second input for the converted second signal (122). The diplexer (130) is configured to combine the converted second signal (122) with the first signal (10) into a data stream (135) and to output the data stream (135) into a data channel for transmission through the rotary joint (50).