Single-Trace RF and DC Antenna Link With Power Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems in vehicles require either complex trace layouts with two in-car traces for signal transmission or consume more power due to the lack of power control, as they either need two traces for signal transmission or use a single trace without user-controlled power delivery.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication system utilizing a single high-frequency signal line for transmitting radio frequency and DC signals, featuring a power control hub with an amplifier, rectifier, and switch, allowing user-controlled power delivery to the antenna via a signal generator and power source, enabling efficient power management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If two in-car traces are used for signal transmission, then the receiving module can control power delivery to the antenna, but the trace layout becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power transmission function and signal transmission function into a single in-car trace. The high-frequency signal line carries both RF signals and DC power signals simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate power line and signal line, thus simplifying the trace layout while maintaining power control capability through the receiving module
Solution Approach 2:
The single in-car trace is designed to perform multiple functions: transmitting RF signals bidirectionally and transmitting DC power signals unidirectionally. This multi-functional trace replaces the traditional two-trace configuration, reducing layout complexity while preserving all necessary control and power delivery functions
2Device complexity
If a single in-car trace is used for signal transmission, then the trace layout is simplified, but the receiving module cannot control power sent to the antenna
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges power transmission and signal transmission into one trace, but introduces a power control hub with switch controlled by the receiving module to enable power control functionality while maintaining the simplified single-trace layout
Solution Approach 2:
The power control hub acts as an intermediary between the power source, receiving module, and antenna. It receives control signals from the receiving module and adjusts the power delivery to the antenna accordingly, enabling power control capability in the single-trace configuration
3Device complexity
If DC signals are directly transmitted to the antenna via the high-frequency signal line, then the layout is simpler, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic power control mechanism where the receiving module can adjust the power delivery to the antenna based on operational needs. The power control hub with controllable switch enables dynamic power management, allowing the system to reduce power consumption when full power is not required, while maintaining the simplified single-trace layout
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
Simplifies the trace layout by using a single high-frequency signal line and allows flexible user control over power delivery to the antenna, reducing power consumption and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
an amplifier, the rectifier and a switch. The amplifier of the power control hub comprises a first end coupled to the signal generator of the receiving module for receiving the control signals generated by the signal generator, a second end coupled to the power source, and an output end for outputting first output signals generated by amplifying the control signals
Implementation Method 2
The rectifier of the power control hub comprises a first end coupled to the output end of the amplifier, a second end coupled to the power source, and an output end for outputting second output signals generated by adjusting DC levels of the first output signals received from the output end of the amplifier
Implementation Method 3
The switch of the power control hub comprises a first end coupled to the power source, a second end coupled to the antenna, and a control end coupled to the output end of the rectifier for electrically connecting or disconnecting the first and second ends of the switch based on the second output signals received from the output end of the rectifier
Implementation Method 4
an antenna for generating radio frequency signals
Implementation Method 5
a receiving module having a signal generator for generating control signals
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless communication system includes an antenna, a receiving module, a power source, and a power control hub. The power control hub includes an amplifier having a first end coupled to the receiving module and a second end coupled to the power source. The amplifier generates a first output signal based on a control signal of the receiving module. The power control hub includes a rectifier having a first end coupled to the output end of the amplifier and a second end coupled to the power source. The rectifier generates a second output signal based on the first output signal. The power control hub also includes a switch. A first and a second end of the switch are electrically connected or disconnected based on the second output signal received at a control end of the switch.