TDMA Full-Duplex Radio Using One Synthesizer and Dual VCOs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current portable communications devices face challenges in implementing full-duplex communication in TDMA radio systems due to the added cost and complexity of using multiple synthesizers.
Innovation Solution
A portable communications device is designed with a single synthesizer and two voltage controlled oscillators, controlled by an electronic processor to switch between frequencies for each timeslot, enabling full-duplex operation without the need for multiple synthesizers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple synthesizers are used to enable full-duplex communication, then simultaneous transmission and reception on different frequencies is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple synthesizers into a single synthesizer by implementing a timeslot switching mechanism. The single synthesizer alternates between generating first frequency signals for transmission and second frequency signals for reception across different timeslots, effectively combining what would traditionally require separate synthesizer units into one integrated component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action through timeslot switching, where the single synthesizer periodically alternates between two operational modes: generating first frequency signals during first timeslots for transmission and generating second frequency signals during second timeslots for reception. This periodic switching enables full-duplex functionality without requiring simultaneous operation of multiple synthesizers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple synthesizers are used for full-duplex operation, then simultaneous transmission and reception is enabled, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple synthesizers into a single synthesizer by implementing a timeslot switching mechanism. The single synthesizer alternates between generating first frequency signals for transmission and second frequency signals for reception across different timeslots, effectively combining what would traditionally require separate synthesizer units into one integrated component.
Solution Approach 2:
The single synthesizer is designed with multi-functionality to perform both transmission frequency generation and reception frequency generation roles. By making the synthesizer universal in its function and controlling it through timeslot switching, the system eliminates the need for separate dedicated synthesizers for each function, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.
3Device complexity
If a single synthesizer is used with timeslot switching, then device complexity is reduced, but frequency switching speed must be sufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action through timeslot switching, where the single synthesizer periodically alternates between two operational modes: generating first frequency signals during first timeslots for transmission and generating second frequency signals during second timeslots for reception. This periodic switching enables full-duplex functionality without requiring simultaneous operation of multiple synthesizers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-configuring the timeslot switching schedule and preparing frequency transitions in advance. The synthesizer is controlled to switch frequencies at predetermined timeslot boundaries, allowing sufficient time for each frequency to stabilize before use, thereby managing the switching speed requirement through careful timing and scheduling.
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 reduces the cost and complexity of full-duplex communication by allowing simultaneous transmission and reception on different frequencies using a single synthesizer, optimizing device performance and battery life.
Implementation Method 1
a first voltage controlled oscillator, a second voltage controlled oscillator
Implementation Method 2
a synthesizer configured to generate a first frequency when connected to the first voltage controlled oscillator and generate a second frequency when connected to the second voltage controlled oscillator
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B~3
AI summary
Portable communications device (110) and method (500) for full duplex operation in a time division multiple access radio system. The method (500) includes providing a switch (340) for connecting one of a first voltage controlled oscillator (330A) and a second voltage controlled oscillator (330B) to a synthesizer (350). The synthesizer (350) generates a first frequency when connected to the first voltage controlled oscillator (330A) and generates a second frequency when connected to the second voltage controlled oscillator (330B). The method (500) also includes controlling, using an electronic processor (310) coupled to the switch (340), the switch (340) to connect the first voltage controlled oscillator (330A) to the synthesizer (350) for a first timeslot (220A), and controlling, using the electronic processor (310), the switch (340) to disconnect the first voltage controlled oscillator (330A) from the synthesizer (350) and connect the second voltage controlled oscillator (330B) to the synthesizer (350) for a second timeslot (220B). The second timeslot (220B) is immediately adjacent to the first timeslot (220A).