Toll Module RF Sensitivity via Schottky Diode Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior toll modules have poor receiving sensitivity due to the use of zero-bias Schottky diodes, which suffer from temperature instability and poor electro-static discharge tolerance, and require additional components like buffers to manage high output impedance.
Innovation Solution
The improved toll module design eliminates zero-bias Schottky diodes by incorporating a first antenna, a filter, a resistive unit, a radio frequency power detector, an attenuator, a wake-up circuit, and a controller, which adjust and process signals to enhance sensitivity and reduce component count, allowing for wireless communication with toll collection systems without the need for temperature compensators or signal buffers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If zero-bias Schottky diodes are used in the toll module, then the module can detect RF signals, but the receiving sensitivity is poor and temperature instability occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the zero-bias Schottky diode from the toll module circuitry. This extraction eliminates the temperature instability and poor sensitivity issues associated with Schottky diodes, while the patent does not provide a direct replacement component, leaving the detection function unimplemented.
2Ease of manufacture
If zero-bias Schottky diodes are used in the toll module, then signal detection is enabled, but additional buffer components are required to manage high output impedance
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the zero-bias Schottky diode, the patent eliminates the need for buffer components that would be required to manage the high output impedance of Schottky diodes. This extraction simultaneously reduces both the component count and the device complexity related to buffering requirements.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact toll module design is implemented, then space constraints are addressed, but signal processing capabilities may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The removal of the zero-bias Schottky diode and its associated buffer components significantly reduces the volume required for the toll module. This extraction achieves compactness while the patent claims to maintain signal processing capabilities, though it does not provide a replacement detection mechanism.
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 design enhances sensitivity and reduces the number of components, resulting in a smaller, more cost-effective toll module that can fit in space-constrained areas and maintain reliable communication with toll collection systems, eliminating the need for buffering and reducing unit-to-unit variations.
Implementation Method 1
The first antenna may be configured to receive a first signal from a toll collection system remotely located relative the vehicle and generate a first output based, at least in part, on the received first signal
Implementation Method 2
The radio frequency power detector may be communicatively connected to the first antenna and configured to adjust the first output and generate a second output based, at least in part, on the adjusted first output
Implementation Method 3
The attenuator may be communicatively connected to the first antenna and configured to: receive the second output and generate a third output based, at least in part, on the received first output
Implementation Method 4
The first antenna, which is further configured to backscatter the first signal based, at least in part, on the received third output. The backscattering of the first signal operable to provide the unique identifier
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a vehicle toll module, which may comprise a first antenna, a radio frequency power detector, an attenuator, and/or a controller. The first antenna may receive a first signal from a toll collection system remotely located relative the vehicle and generate a first output based thereon. The radio frequency power detector may be configured to adjust the first output to generate a second output. The attenuator may be configured to receive the second output and generate a third output based thereon. The controller may be connected to the attenuator and configured to: receive the third output, extract data from the second output, and generate a third output based on a unique identifier associated with the toll module, in response to the extracted data. Additionally, the third output may be received by an antenna which may either transmit a second signal or backscatters the first signal.