Electrical Signal Phase Alignment Using Superposed Power Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for generating and adjusting phases of electrical signals, particularly in devices under test like chipsets, face challenges due to imperfections in measurement setups, such as varying cable lengths, making it difficult to set a precise phase difference between signals.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine and adjust the phases of electrical signals by measuring the power parameter of the superposed signal, using a mathematical model to interpolate and extrapolate phase settings, allowing for precise generation of signals with a predetermined phase difference, and adjusting phase offsets to achieve desired phase relationships.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two arbitrary waveform generators are used to generate signals with predefined phase difference, then signal generation capability is provided, but measurement imperfections such as varying cable lengths cause difficulty in setting precise phase difference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the actual phase difference is measured by superposing the two electrical signals and detecting the power parameter of the superposed signal. The measured phase difference is compared with the desired phase difference, and adjustments are made to the phase of one signal based on the error signal, creating a closed-loop control system that continuously corrects phase deviations caused by measurement imperfections
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical adjustment methods (manually adjusting cable lengths or physical phase shifters) with an electronic control approach. Instead of physically modifying the measurement setup to achieve phase precision, the system uses electronic phase adjustment of the generated signals based on measured feedback, substituting physical calibration with electronic correction
2Stability of the object's composition
If cable lengths are kept fixed to maintain phase stability, then thermal effects causing cable length variation are eliminated, but adaptability to different measurement configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-calibration by automatically measuring its own phase difference using the superposition method and adjusting its own output signals accordingly. The measurement setup characterizes itself without requiring external calibration equipment or fixed cable configurations, enabling the system to adapt to different cable lengths and measurement configurations while maintaining phase stability through active compensation
3Measurement precision
If phase adjustment is performed by varying one signal's phase until superposed signal power is minimal, then phase adjustment is achieved, but the method is time-consuming and requires precise power measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by first measuring the actual phase difference between the two signals using the superposition method before proceeding with any test measurements. This preliminary phase characterization allows the system to pre-calculate the necessary phase adjustments and directly set the appropriate phase offsets, avoiding iterative adjustment processes and reducing overall measurement time
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 provides a simple and reliable method for generating signals with precise phase differences, enabling accurate phase determination and adjustment, even in imperfect measurement setups, and allows for high-precision phase setting across various frequencies.
Implementation Method 1
a power measurement unit (24) that is configured to determine a power parameter of the superposed signal
Implementation Method 2
a combiner unit (22) that is configured to superpose the first signal and the second signal, thereby generating a superposed signal
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A method for determining and/or adjusting phases of at least two electrical signals is disclosed. The method comprises the following steps: A first frequency and/or a first power level for a first signal is set. A second frequency and/or a second power level for a second signal is set. The first signal and the second signal are superposed, thereby obtaining a superposed signal. A power parameter of the superposed signal is determined via a power measurement unit (24) for several different phase offsets of the first signal and/or of the second signal. A relative phase between the first signal and the second signal is determined and/or set based on the determined power parameters. Moreover, a signal generator system (10) is disclosed.