Silicon MEMS BPSK Modulator Using 180° Phase Resonator Outputs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional digital modulation techniques, such as phase shift keying, require complex circuitry for phase comparison and modulation, which can be cumbersome and prone to distortion, especially in robust modulation schemes like binary phase shift keying (BPSK).
Innovation Solution
A micro-electromechanical resonator device is used to generate two output signals with a predetermined 180-degree phase relationship, utilizing a free-standing resonator structure anchored to a semiconductor body that rotates in response to an input signal, changing capacitance to produce output signals indicative of the phase modulation data, thereby simplifying the modulation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional phase locked loop circuitry is used for phase modulation, then modulation can be achieved, but the circuit complexity increases and the system becomes prone to distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional electrical phase locked loop circuitry with a mechanical resonator-based system. The resonator physically generates two output signals with a predetermined phase relationship through its mechanical oscillation, eliminating the need for complex electrical phase comparison and adjustment circuitry. This mechanical approach reduces circuit complexity while improving immunity to distortion.
Solution Approach 2:
The resonator automatically generates the two phase-modulated output signals through its inherent mechanical oscillation properties. The system self-regulates the phase relationship between signals without requiring external phase detection, comparison, or adjustment mechanisms, thereby simplifying the overall circuit architecture while maintaining signal integrity.
2Manufacturing precision
If phase adjustment circuitry is used to achieve precise phase relationships, then modulation accuracy improves, but the device complexity and signal loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The resonator is designed to pre-establish the precise 180-degree phase relationship between its two output signals through its mechanical construction. This preliminary configuration of the phase relationship eliminates the need for subsequent electrical phase adjustment circuitry, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining precise phase control.
3Loss of energy
If conventional modulation circuits are used, then modulation can be performed, but signal amplitude loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing electrical phase adjustment circuitry with a mechanical resonator system, the patent reduces the number of signal path components that could cause amplitude loss. The resonator directly generates the modulated signals with minimal energy loss, eliminating multiple stages of electrical signal processing that contribute to amplitude degradation in conventional systems.
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 simplifies the modulation process by eliminating the need for phase adjustment circuitry and ensures robust phase shift keying with reduced signal amplitude loss, enhancing immunity to distortion and complexity in the modulation process.
Implementation Method 1
rotating a micro-electromechanical resonator structure about an axis as a function of the input signal... sensing a change in capacitance of a capacitive element as a function of the rotation
Data Source
AI summary
A modulator includes a micro-electromechanical resonator device configured to receive an input signal and generate two output signals in response thereto, wherein the two signals having a predetermined phase relationship therebetween. The modulator further includes a switching system configured to selectively pass one of the two signals to an output of the modulator in an alternating fashion in response to phase modulation data.