Transceiver Self-Characterization for Object Detection Sensor Reliability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing transceivers for object detection sensors, such as radar and LiDAR sensors, lack effective methods for self-characterization and fault diagnosis of their analog parts, necessitating periodic laboratory re-measurement and parameter adjustment.

Innovation Solution

A transceiver with an integrated test device that generates and processes test signals to determine characterizing parameters of its analog parts, enabling self-testing and fault diagnosis, using digital and analog components to ensure consistent performance over time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If transceivers are periodically taken to laboratory for re-measurement and parameter adjustment, then measurement precision and reliability can be maintained, but loss of time and productivity decrease due to removal from service

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransceiver performance consistencyVSAvoiddowntime for laboratory re-measurement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The transceiver performs self-characterization by generating test signals internally and measuring its own analog part parameters using integrated test signal generation and measurement circuits, eliminating the need for external laboratory equipment and personnel intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The transceiver proactively characterizes its analog part before performance degradation becomes critical by continuously or periodically measuring parameters such as gain, phase, and noise figure, allowing preventive adjustment before field performance issues arise

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If transceivers are removed from field for laboratory re-measurement, then parameter precision can be maintained, but productivity decreases due to operational interruption

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanalog part parameter accuracyVSAvoidsensor testing availability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The transceiver uses integrated test signal generation and measurement circuits to autonomously characterize its own analog part parameters including gain, phase, and noise figure without requiring external laboratory equipment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The transceiver performs dual functions: normal signal transmission/reception for sensor testing and self-characterization for parameter measurement, allowing both operational productivity and measurement precision to coexist through functional integration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Manufacturing precision

If manual parameter adjustment is performed in laboratory, then manufacturing precision can be maintained, but device complexity increases due to additional adjustment mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter adjustment accuracyVSAvoidadjustment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The transceiver continuously measures its own analog part parameters and uses this feedback information to automatically adjust parameters through control circuits, replacing complex manual adjustment mechanisms with automated feedback-based control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The transceiver replaces manual mechanical adjustment procedures with electronic measurement and control systems that automatically characterize and adjust parameters based on electrical test signals and digital processing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Enables in-field characterization and fault diagnosis of transceiver analog parts, preventing the need for laboratory re-measurement and ensuring consistent operation by adjusting parameters as needed, thus enhancing reliability and reducing maintenance costs.

Implementation Method 1

The transmitting part is set up to generate a first electromagnetic signal from the first test signal and transmit it

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The receiving part is set up to receive a second electromagnetic signal derived from the first electromagnetic signal, convert it into a second test signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20250298122A1Transceiver and method for characterizing a transceiver
Publication Date: 2025.09.25 DSPACE DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING & CONTROL ENGINEERING GMBH
  • US20250298122A1 patent drawing
  • US20250298122A1 patent drawing
  • US20250298122A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A transceiver for transmitting and receiving electromagnetic signals, wherein the electromagnetic signals are intended for exchange with an object detection sensor, wherein the transceiver has an analog part. The analog part has a transmitting part and a receiving part. A test device is set up to transmit a first test signal to the transmitting part, and the transmitting part is set up to generate a first electromagnetic signal from the first test signal and transmit it. The receiving part is set up to receive a second electromagnetic signal derived from the first electromagnetic signal, convert it into a second test signal and transmit it to the test device. The test device is set up to determine at least one parameter characterizing the analog part as a function of the first and second test signals. A method for characterizing a transceiver is also provided.