Multi-Channel Transceiver Frequency Switching for Preamble Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transceivers for wireless networks, particularly those adhering to the IEEE 802.15.4 standard, face challenges in efficiently switching between different channels without disrupting preamble detection, leading to potential missed signal detection during frequency switching.
Innovation Solution
A transceiver design that incorporates a tunable oscillator device with programmable configuration registers and a control unit, utilizing a phase-locked loop to adjust frequencies quickly between channels, ensuring continuous preamble detection without reconfiguration, and enabling simultaneous monitoring of multiple wireless networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the transceiver switches between different channels using conventional frequency synthesis methods, then channel switching capability is achieved, but switching time increases and preamble detection may be disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-calculates and stores frequency tuning words (FTWs) for all possible channel frequencies in a lookup table during the transceiver's operation. When channel switching is required, the system directly retrieves the pre-computed FTW from memory instead of calculating it in real-time, enabling instantaneous frequency adjustment without disrupting preamble detection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional phase-locked loop (PLL) frequency synthesis methods with a direct frequency injection approach using a lookup table. Instead of using complex analog PLL circuits that require settling time, the system directly loads pre-calculated frequency values into the Numerically Controlled Oscillator (NCO), achieving immediate frequency switching without mechanical or analog settling delays
2Productivity
If the transceiver uses a single receiver for multiple channels, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to monitor multiple wireless networks simultaneously is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal receiver architecture where a single receiver can be rapidly reconfigured to monitor multiple wireless networks and protocols. By using the lookup table to store FTWs for different standards (IEEE 802.15.4, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) and enabling quick switching between them, the single receiver performs the function of multiple dedicated receivers, achieving multi-network monitoring capability without increasing hardware complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the receiver dynamically adaptable by implementing a software-controlled frequency switching mechanism. The receiver can dynamically switch between different frequencies and protocols based on operational requirements, allowing a single static hardware configuration to perform multiple dynamic functions across different wireless networks
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 solution reduces switching times and ensures reliable preamble detection across channel switches, allowing for seamless communication between different wireless networks and protocols, enhancing the transceiver's operational efficiency and sensitivity.
Implementation Method 1
a phase-locked loop to adjust an output frequency of the controlled oscillator to the set first receive frequency or second receive frequency
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a transceiver may set a first receive frequency of a first channel of the transceiver and a second receive frequency of a second channel of the transceiver. The transceiver may receive, during a first time interval, a first radio frequency (RF) signal on the first channel. The transceiver may determine that a first measured value indicative of a first detectable received RF signal on the first channel exceeds a first predetermined threshold, and in response, receive a first data frame on the first channel. The transceiver may receive, during a second time interval, a second RF signal on the second channel. The transceiver determine that a second measured value indicative of a second detectable received RF signal on the second channel exceeds the first predetermined threshold, and in response, receive a second data frame on the second channel.