VCO-Based Filter Tuning for Fast Channel Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signal processing and communication systems face challenges in efficiently controlling filter parameters due to capacitor fluctuations, leading to increased circuit complexity, production costs, and channel selection time, as existing methods require additional circuits and adjustment times for correction.
Innovation Solution
A signal processing apparatus and method that utilize a voltage-controlled oscillation block to measure and control filter parameters, eliminating the need for additional circuits and adjustment times by using the oscillation frequency measurement to adjust capacitance values directly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If additional circuits (test tone generator, negative Gm cell) are added to correct capacitance fluctuations, then filter parameter control accuracy is improved, but device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The VCO serves dual purposes: generating frequency signals for signal processing and simultaneously providing oscillation frequency information for detecting capacitance fluctuations. The system uses its own operational characteristics (oscillation frequency) to self-diagnose and self-correct parameter deviations, eliminating the need for separate test equipment or detection circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage-controlled oscillation block is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both a frequency generation element for signal processing and a sensing element for detecting capacitance fluctuations. By measuring the oscillation frequency, the system can infer capacitance values and adjust filter parameters accordingly, making the VCO a multi-functional component.
2Manufacturing precision
If adjustment time is added to channel selection process for capacitance correction, then filter parameter accuracy is improved, but channel selection time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the oscillation frequency of the VCO, which reflects the actual capacitance values. By detecting frequency deviations in advance, the control circuit can proactively adjust the filter capacitor banks before significant performance degradation occurs, maintaining optimal filter tuning without requiring time-consuming post-adjustment procedures during channel switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where the oscillation frequency of the VCO is continuously measured and used to control the filter capacitor banks. The control circuit receives frequency information from the VCO, compares it with reference values, and automatically adjusts the filter parameters to compensate for capacitance fluctuations, creating a real-time closed-loop control system that maintains accuracy without adding adjustment time.
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 approach allows for easier and more efficient filter parameter control, reducing channel selection time and production costs by leveraging existing components for capacitance adjustment, thereby enhancing reception performance without adding new circuits or processing blocks.
Implementation Method 1
a voltage-controlled oscillation block having a parameter high in correlation with a filter; a measuring block configured to measure an oscillation frequency of the voltage-controlled oscillation block
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a signal processing apparatus including: a voltage-controlled oscillation block having a parameter high in correlation with a filter; a measuring block configured to measure an oscillation frequency of the voltage-controlled oscillation block; and a control block configured to control the parameter of the filter by use of a measuring result of the oscillation frequency obtained by the measuring block.