Single-LO Harmonic Mixer Conversion for 60 GHz RF Circuits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Generating LO signals for 60 GHz frequency conversion in RF systems is challenging due to high power consumption and sensitivity to parasitic effects, especially in direct conversion type circuits, and requires multiple VCOs in double conversion type circuits.
Innovation Solution
A down-converter and up-converter design incorporating harmonic and general mixers that utilize a single LO frequency for frequency conversion, where the first frequency is 60 GHz and the second frequency is 20 GHz, allowing for efficient frequency conversion by subtracting or adding frequencies to achieve intermediate and baseband frequencies, reducing the burden of generating high-frequency LO signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If direct conversion type frequency conversion circuit is used for 60 GHz signal generation, then frequency conversion capability is achieved, but power consumption increases and sensitivity to parasitic effects worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frequency conversion process into multiple stages using a cascade architecture. Instead of direct conversion, the system first converts 60 GHz to an intermediate frequency (e.g., 20 GHz), then converts to baseband. This segmentation reduces the power consumption and parasitic sensitivity associated with direct 60 GHz mixing by distributing the conversion burden across multiple lower-frequency stages.
2Productivity
If direct conversion type frequency conversion circuit is used for 60 GHz signal generation, then frequency conversion capability is achieved, but sensitivity to parasitic effects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frequency conversion process into multiple stages using a cascade architecture. Instead of direct conversion, the system first converts 60 GHz to an intermediate frequency (e.g., 20 GHz), then converts to baseband. This segmentation reduces the power consumption and parasitic sensitivity associated with direct 60 GHz mixing by distributing the conversion burden across multiple lower-frequency stages.
3Adaptability or versatility
If double conversion type frequency conversion circuit is used, then frequency conversion flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases due to requirement of multiple VCOs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple VCOs into a single VCO that operates at an intermediate frequency (e.g., 20 GHz). This single VCO serves dual purposes: it is the output of the first conversion stage and the input reference for the second stage. By combining these functions, the system achieves double conversion flexibility without requiring separate VCOs for each stage, thus reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate frequency VCO serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the local oscillator for the first conversion stage, the output signal for that stage, and the reference frequency for the second conversion stage. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated VCOs, reducing the overall number of oscillators required while maintaining conversion flexibility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple VCOs are used in double conversion type circuit, then frequency conversion flexibility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple VCOs into a single VCO that operates at an intermediate frequency (e.g., 20 GHz). This single VCO serves dual purposes: it is the output of the first conversion stage and the input reference for the second stage. By combining these functions, the system achieves double conversion flexibility without requiring separate VCOs, thus reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate frequency VCO serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the local oscillator for the first conversion stage, the output signal for that stage, and the reference frequency for the second conversion stage. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated VCOs, reducing the overall number of oscillators required while maintaining conversion flexibility.
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 enables frequency conversion using a single LO frequency, reducing power consumption and complexity, and allows for the formation of receivers and transmitters at a lower cost by eliminating the need for multiple VCOs and LC resonance adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
a down-converter may include a harmonic mixer where a signal of a first frequency, an In-phase signal of a second frequency, and a quadrature phase signal of the second frequency are input, and which outputs a signal of a third frequency generated by subtracting a twice value of the second frequency from the first frequency
Data Source
AI summary
A down-frequency conversion circuit and up-frequency conversion circuit, and a receiver and transmitter applying the same are provided. The down-frequency conversion circuit includes a harmonic mixer and general mixer, and thus becomes able to convert frequency using one LO (Local Oscillator) frequency, thereby reducing burden on generating LO frequency.