Single-Antenna Vehicle Transponder Active Amplification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing single-antenna vehicle transponders face limitations in achieving a high transmitted signal level without resulting in a narrow communication zone, as they rely on passive amplification and phase shifting, which restricts communication range.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle transponder design incorporating a power directing means with multiple ports and an active amplifying modulator that allows for phase shifting and active reflective amplification, enabling the same antenna to be used for both receiving and transmitting signals, thereby expanding the communication zone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If passive amplification with phase shifting is used in a single-antenna transponder, then the transmitted signal level can be increased, but the communication zone becomes narrow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the antenna system adjustable between different operational modes. The transponder can dynamically switch between passive amplification mode (for long distance) and active amplification mode (for wider coverage), allowing the system to adapt to different communication requirements rather than being fixed in one configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the amplification parameter from passive to active. By introducing an active amplifier that can provide gain control, the system transforms the fundamental amplification mechanism, enabling both high signal levels and wider communication zones by adjusting the amplification parameter independently of antenna gain
2Power
If an antenna with higher gain is used to increase transmitted signal level, then the signal strength improves, but the radiation lobe becomes narrow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an active amplifier as an intermediary component between the antenna and the signal source. This intermediary device provides the necessary signal amplification without requiring the antenna itself to have high gain, thereby decoupling the relationship between signal level and antenna directivity requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the signal amplification function from the antenna radiation function. Instead of relying on the antenna to perform both functions simultaneously (requiring high gain and wide pattern), the system separates these functions by using an active amplifier for signal enhancement and a standard antenna for radiation, simplifying the overall system requirements
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 allows for a wider communication zone and reduced antenna directivity requirements, simplifying integration on a printed circuit board and enabling the use of antennas with lower gain, while maintaining a secure communication channel.
Implementation Method 1
an active amplifying means that is arranged to amplify and reflect the modulated signal through said reciprocal path to be transmitted via the antenna
Implementation Method 2
the modulator is arranged to modulate the received signal by means of phase shifting
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a vehicle transponder (1) comprising an antenna (2) and a power directing means (3, 17, 18), the power directing means (3, 17, 18) having a first port (4, 4', 4"), a second port (5, 5', 5") and a third port (6, 6', 6"). The power directing means (3, 17, 18) is arranged to direct power from the first port (4, 4', 4") to the second port (5, 5', 5") and/or the third port (6, 6', 6"). The transponder further comprises a modulator (7), which comprises a first port (12), a second port (13) and a third port (14), where the second port (5, 5', 5") of the power directing means (3, 17, 18) is connected to the first port (12) of the modulator (7). In a first mode of operation, a received signal at the antenna (2) is directed to the modulator (7) via the power directing means (3, 17, 18), the modulator (7) being arranged to modulate the received signal by means of phase shifting. The second port (13) of the modulator (7) is connected to an active amplifying means (8) that is arranged to amplify and reflect the modulated signal to be transmitted via the antenna (2).