Segmented SDR Decoding for Faster Convolutional Error Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing software-defined radio decoding methods, particularly those using Viterbi algorithms for convolutional codes, are slow, memory-intensive, and lack flexibility in processing different waveform types, failing to effectively reduce errors in unreliable or noisy communication channels.

Innovation Solution

A method that divides encoded data blocks into segments for parallel decoding using estimated encoded sequences, merging these segments with an artificial neural network to perform a closest fit calculation, significantly increasing processing speed and enabling easier adaptation to various waveforms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If Viterbi algorithm is used for decoding convolutional codes, then error correction capability is improved, but processing speed deteriorates and memory consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror correction capabilityVSAvoidprocessing speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The received encoded data block is divided into multiple segments, each of which is decoded independently using a simplified decoding approach. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple segments simultaneously, significantly increasing overall processing speed while maintaining acceptable error correction performance through subsequent merging of decoded sequences

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using the computationally expensive Viterbi algorithm for all segments, the patent employs a simpler, faster decoding method for individual segments. The computational intensity is concentrated only in the final merging and selection stage, making the overall process more efficient while preserving reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Reliability

If Viterbi algorithm is used for decoding convolutional codes, then error correction capability is improved, but memory consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror correction capabilityVSAvoidmemory consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Dividing the data block into segments allows each segment to be processed with reduced memory requirements. Only the necessary information for merging decoded sequences needs to be stored, significantly reducing peak memory consumption compared to storing entire Viterbi decoding states

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts only the essential decoded sequences from each segment that are needed for the final merging process, discarding intermediate computational data. This extraction approach minimizes memory usage while preserving the error correction capability through careful selection of candidate sequences

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Measurement precision

If traditional decoding method is used, then decoding accuracy is maintained, but flexibility in processing different waveform types deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedecoding accuracyVSAvoidflexibility in processing different waveform types
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The segmented decoding approach with merging and selection is a universal method that can be applied to different waveform types and modulation schemes. The core algorithm remains the same while adapting to various communication protocols, providing both accuracy and flexibility

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs dynamic selection of decoding parameters and merging strategies based on the specific waveform type and channel conditions. This dynamic adaptation maintains decoding accuracy across different protocols while providing the flexibility needed for software-defined radio applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Measurement precision

If encoded data block is processed as a whole, then decoding accuracy is improved, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedecoding accuracyVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By dividing the encoded data block into multiple segments that can be decoded in parallel, the patent reduces overall processing time while maintaining decoding accuracy through the merging and selection of decoded sequences from all segments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The parallel processing of multiple segments allows useful computational action to continue simultaneously across all segments rather than sequentially. This continuous parallel processing significantly reduces total processing time while the final merging ensures decoding accuracy is maintained

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS11757473B2Telecommunications method
Publication Date: 2023.09.12 AIRBUS DEFENCE AND SPACE LTD
  • US11757473B2 patent drawing
  • US11757473B2 patent drawing
  • US11757473B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of telecommunications includes the steps of receiving an encoded block having a plurality of values, dividing the received encoded block into a plurality of received segments, each received segment comprising at least two of the values, decoding each received segment by providing, for each received segment, a plurality of estimated encoded sequences, each estimated encoded sequence comprising at least two data units, merging estimated encoded sequences for consecutive segments to provide a plurality of candidate sequences, and selecting one of the plurality of candidate sequences by performing a closest fit calculation between the received encoded data block and each of the candidate sequences. The method is suitable for use in software-defined radios.