Transmission-Line Waveform Generator for Tera-Sample Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Software defined radios require both fast digital to analog converters for digital passband modulation and analog modulators for higher frequencies, necessitating an improved waveform generator for efficient signal processing.
Innovation Solution
A tera-sample-per-second waveform generator comprising a first transmission line with an anti-reflection load and a plurality of current sources, where a second transmission line with a different time delay feeds a seed signal to the first transmission line to generate an output waveform, allowing for varying current injection and voltage propagation, thereby producing a resulting waveform.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If fast digital to analog converters are used for digital passband modulation, then modulation speed is improved, but analog modulators are still required for higher frequencies increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines digital signal processing capabilities with analog waveform generation into a single integrated device. The arbitrary waveform generator uses digital control to directly generate analog waveforms at tera-sample rates, eliminating the need for separate digital-to-analog converters and analog modulators, thus merging multiple functions into one system while maintaining high-speed performance
Solution Approach 2:
The waveform generator is designed to perform multiple functions: it can generate various waveforms (sine, square, triangular, arbitrary shapes), operate at multiple frequency ranges including higher frequencies, and provide both digital control and analog output. This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate dedicated devices for different modulation tasks
2Speed
If analog modulators are used for higher frequencies, then frequency capability is improved, but the need for both digital to analog converters and analog modulators increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the functions of digital-to-analog conversion and analog modulation into a single arbitrary waveform generator. The device uses digitally controlled current sources to directly generate high-frequency analog waveforms, combining what were previously separate functions into one unified system that handles both conversion and modulation simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional analog modulation mechanisms with a digitally controlled system. Instead of using separate analog modulators that require complex circuitry, the invention uses digitally programmed current sources that directly generate the desired waveforms, substituting mechanical/analog adjustment mechanisms with digital control
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 configuration enables the generation of high-frequency waveforms with improved time resolution and frequency capabilities, pushing the limits of waveform generation in software defined radios.
Implementation Method 1
The second transmission line is configured to feed the first transmission line with a seed signal through the plurality of current sources such that the second transmission line has a different time delay between current sources than the first transmission line
Implementation Method 2
The anti-reflection load is coupled to the terminated end of the first transmission line
Data Source
AI summary
A tera-sample-per-second waveform generator comprising: a first transmission line having a terminated end and an output end; an anti-reflection load coupled to the terminated end of the first transmission line; a plurality of current sources, wherein each current source is configured to inject current into the first transmission line; and a second transmission line configured to feed the first transmission line with a seed signal through the plurality of current sources such that the second transmission line has a different time delay between current sources than the first transmission line, wherein the seed signal triggers the current sources to inject current into the first transmission line in order to generate an output waveform.