Time-Interval Encoding with Sample-and-Hold for Accurate Signal Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for encoding analog signals into time intervals, such as those using asynchronous Sigma-Delta modulators and Spiking Neuron circuits, face challenges in accurately representing signal values and suffer from attenuation of high frequencies and increased computational complexity.
Innovation Solution
The proposed method employs a sample-and-hold circuit with a time encoding machine, where the width of each time interval represents an instantaneous signal value, simplifying signal recovery and eliminating high-frequency attenuation by encoding signal samples instead of continuous time signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If asynchronous Sigma-Delta modulator is used as time encoding machine, then analog signal can be encoded into time intervals, but high frequency attenuation occurs and computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the continuous time encoding process into discrete time intervals, where each interval represents a quantized signal value. This segmentation approach converts the continuous analog encoding problem into discrete interval-based representation, reducing computational complexity while maintaining encoding accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic sampling and encoding cycles, where the analog signal is continuously sampled at regular intervals and converted into time-encoded pulses. This periodic action simplifies the encoding process by establishing a rhythmic pattern that reduces computational burden compared to continuous real-time processing.
2Reliability
If continuous time signal encoding is used, then signal representation is maintained, but high frequency components are attenuated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary filtering and signal conditioning before the time encoding process to preserve high frequency components. By preparing the signal in advance through appropriate filtering stages, the system maintains fidelity of high frequency content while proceeding with the time interval encoding.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the encoding parameters, specifically the time interval width and pulse duration, to optimize the representation of different frequency components. By dynamically adjusting these parameters based on signal characteristics, the system preserves high frequency accuracy while maintaining overall signal fidelity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Method for encoding analog signal into time intervals consists in a generation of time intervals using a time encoding machine (TEM). A signal of a constant value is held during a generated time interval on a time encoding machine (TEM) input by the use of a sample-and-hold circuit SH, while the constant value of the signal held during the generated time interval represents an instantaneous value of the analog signal at the end of a generation of a previous time interval. Apparatus for encoding analog signal into time intervals comprising a time encoding machine (TEM), and a sample-and-hold circuit (SH). The signal is provided to an input (SHin) of the sample-and-hold circuit (SH), whose output (SHout) is connected to an output (TEMin) of the time encoding machine (TEM). The output (TEMout) of the time encoding machine (TEM) is connected to an output (Out) of the apparatus, and to a control input (SHctr) of the sample-and-hold circuit (SH).