U.S. patent application number 14/473410 was filed with the patent office on 2015-07-30 for applications of universal frequency translation.
This patent application is currently assigned to ParkerVision, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is ParkerVision, Inc.. Invention is credited to Michael J. Bultman, Robert W. Cook, Richard C. Looke, Charley D. Moses, JR., David F. Sorrells.
Application Number | 20150215151 14/473410 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35600093 |
Filed Date | 2015-07-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150215151 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sorrells; David F. ; et
al. |
July 30, 2015 |
APPLICATIONS OF UNIVERSAL FREQUENCY TRANSLATION
Abstract
Frequency translation and applications of same are described
herein. Such applications include, but are not limited to,
frequency down-conversion, frequency up-conversion, enhanced signal
reception, unified down-conversion and filtering, and combinations
and applications of same.
Inventors: |
Sorrells; David F.;
(Middleburg, FL) ; Bultman; Michael J.;
(Jacksonville, FL) ; Cook; Robert W.;
(Switzerland, FL) ; Looke; Richard C.;
(Jacksonville, FL) ; Moses, JR.; Charley D.;
(DeBary, FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ParkerVision, Inc. |
Jacksonville |
FL |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
ParkerVision, Inc.
Jacksonville
FL
|
Family ID: |
35600093 |
Appl. No.: |
14/473410 |
Filed: |
August 29, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13829795 |
Mar 14, 2013 |
8824993 |
|
|
14473410 |
|
|
|
|
13421635 |
Mar 15, 2012 |
8406724 |
|
|
13829795 |
|
|
|
|
12881912 |
Sep 14, 2010 |
8160534 |
|
|
13421635 |
|
|
|
|
12408498 |
Mar 20, 2009 |
7826817 |
|
|
12881912 |
|
|
|
|
11230732 |
Sep 21, 2005 |
7697916 |
|
|
12408498 |
|
|
|
|
10086250 |
Mar 4, 2002 |
7016663 |
|
|
11230732 |
|
|
|
|
09261129 |
Mar 3, 1999 |
6370371 |
|
|
10086250 |
|
|
|
|
09176027 |
Oct 21, 1998 |
|
|
|
09261129 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
375/320 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H03D 7/00 20130101; H03K
5/00006 20130101; H04L 27/3818 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04L 27/38 20060101
H04L027/38 |
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. A method for down-converting a carrier signal to a baseband
signal, the method comprising: receiving the carrier signal, the
carrier signaled modulated by at least one of an amplitude
variation, a phase variation or a combination thereof; controlling
a switching device with a control signal comprised of a plurality
of aperture periods, the carrier signal input to the switching
device and the control signal controlling the switching device so
that the switching device is opened and closed at an aliasing rate
based on the plurality of aperture periods; sampling energy in the
modulated carrier signal by generating a plurality of energy
samples obtained by transferring a portion of energy from the
modulated carrier signal to a storage capacitor each time the
switching device is closed by the control signal; discharging at
the storage capacitor, when the switching device is open, some but
not all of the energy transferred to the storage capacitor, a
remaining portion of the energy that is not discharged at the
storage capacitor being accumulated by the storage capacitor over
the plurality of aperture periods; and generating the baseband
signal based on the energy accumulated at the storage capacitor
from the energy samples.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein the energy accumulated at the
storage capacitor is based on one or more of aperture width of each
of the aperture periods, the value of the storage capacitor, an
input impedance, and an output impedance.
4. The method of claim 2, wherein generating the control signal
comprises generating a train of substantially non-sinusoidal pulses
to control when the switch is open or closed.
5. The method of claim 2, wherein the energy accumulated at the
storage capacitor is comprised of the remaining energy not
discharged at the storage capacitor during each of the plurality of
aperture periods.
6. The method of claim 2, wherein discharging some but not all of
the energy transferred to the storage capacitor comprises inputting
the discharged energy into a differential amplifier.
7. The method of claim 2, wherein discharging some but not all of
the energy transferred to the storage capacitor comprises coupling
the storage capacitor to a low impedance load that is configured so
that the storage capacitor will discharge some but not all of the
energy when the switch is open.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/421,635, filed Mar. 15, 2012, and entitled
"APPLICATIONS OF UNIVERSAL FREQUENCY TRANSLATION", which is herein
incorporated by reference in its entirety, which is a continuation
of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/881,912, filed Sep. 14,
2010, and entitled "APPLICATIONS OF UNIVERSAL FREQUENCY
TRANSLATION", which is herein incorporated by reference in its
entirety, which is a Continuation of co-pending U.S. Continuation
application Ser. No. 12/408,498, filed on Mar. 20, 2009, entitled
"APPLICATIONS OF UNIVERSAL FREQUENCY TRANSLATION" by Sorrells,
David F. et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated by
reference and for which priority is claimed under 35 U.S.C. 120. As
in the parent U.S. Continuation application Ser. No. 12/408,498,
priority is also claimed under 35 U.S.C 120 to U.S. Continuation
application Ser. No. 11/230,732, filed on Sep. 21, 2005, entitled
"APPLICATIONS OF UNIVERSAL FREQUENCY TRANSLATION" by Sorrells,
David F. et al., now U.S. Pat. No. 7,697,916, issued on Apr. 13,
2010 which is a Continuation of U.S. Continuation application Ser.
No. 10/086,250, filed on Mar. 4, 2002, entitled "APPLICATIONS OF
UNIVERSAL FREQUENCY TRANSLATION" by Sorrells, David F. et al, now
U.S. Pat. No. 7,016,663, issued on Mar. 21, 2006 which is a
Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/261,129, filed on Mar.
3, 1999, entitled APPLICATIONS OF UNIVERSAL FREQUENCY TRANSLATION''
by Sorrells, David F. et al, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,370,371, issued on
Apr. 9, 2002, which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. application
Ser. No. 09/176,027, filed Oct. 21, 1998 entitled "UNIVERSAL
FREQUENCY TRANSLATION AND APPLICATIONS OF SAME," by Sorrells, David
F. et al, now abandoned, the entire contents of each is
incorporated herein by reference and for which benefit is claimed
under 35 U.S.C. 120.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS
[0002] The following applications of common assignee are related to
the present application, and are herein incorporated by reference
in their entireties: "Method and System for Down-Converting
Electromagnetic Signals," Ser. No. 09/176,022, filed Oct. 21, 1998.
"Method and System for Frequency Up-Conversion," Ser. No.
09/176,154, filed Oct. 21, 1998. "Method and System for Ensuring
Reception of a Communications Signal," Ser. No. 09/176,415, filed
Oct. 21, 1998. "Integrated Frequency Translation And Selectivity,"
Ser. No. 09/175,966, filed Oct. 21, 1998.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 1. The Field of the Invention
[0004] The present invention is generally related to frequency
translation, and applications of same.
[0005] 2. Background and Relevant Art
[0006] Various communication components exist for performing
frequency down-conversion, frequency up-conversion, and filtering.
Also, schemes exist for signal reception in the face of potential
jamming signals.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention is related to frequency translation,
and applications of same. Such applications include, but are not
limited to, frequency down-conversion, frequency up-conversion,
enhanced signal reception, unified down-conversion and filtering,
and combinations and applications of same.
[0008] Further features and advantages of the invention, as well as
the structure and operation of various embodiments of the
invention, are described in detail below with reference to the
accompanying drawings. The drawing in which an element first
appears is typically indicated by the leftmost character(s) and/or
digit(s) in the corresponding reference number.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The present invention will be described with reference to
the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0010] FIG. 1A is a block diagram of a universal frequency
translation (UFT) module according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0011] FIG. 1B is a more detailed diagram of a universal frequency
translation (UFT) module according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0012] FIG. 1C illustrates a UFT module used in a universal
frequency down-conversion (UFD) module according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0013] FIG. 1D illustrates a UFT module used in a universal
frequency up-conversion (UFU) module according to an embodiment of
the invention;
[0014] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a universal frequency
translation (UFT) module according to an alternative embodiment of
the invention;
[0015] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a universal frequency
up-conversion (UFU) module according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a more detailed diagram of a universal frequency
up-conversion (UFU) module according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a universal frequency
up-conversion (UFU) module according to an alternative embodiment
of the invention;
[0018] FIGS. 6A-6I illustrate example waveforms used to describe
the operation of the UFU module;
[0019] FIG. 7 illustrates a UFT module used in a receiver according
to an embodiment of the invention;
[0020] FIG. 8 illustrates a UFT module used in a transmitter
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0021] FIG. 9 illustrates an environment comprising a transmitter
and a receiver, each of which may be implemented using a UFT module
of the invention;
[0022] FIG. 10 illustrates a transceiver according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0023] FIG. 11 illustrates a transceiver according to an
alternative embodiment of the invention;
[0024] FIG. 12 illustrates an environment comprising a transmitter
and a receiver, each of which may be implemented using enhanced
signal reception (ESR) components of the invention;
[0025] FIG. 13 illustrates a UFT module used in a unified
down-conversion and filtering (UDF) module according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0026] FIG. 14 illustrates an example receiver implemented using a
UDF module according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0027] FIGS. 15A-15F illustrate example applications of the UDF
module according to embodiments of the invention;
[0028] FIG. 16 illustrates an environment comprising a transmitter
and a receiver, each of which may be implemented using enhanced
signal reception (ESR) components of the invention, wherein the
receiver may be further implemented using one or more UFD modules
of the invention;
[0029] FIG. 17 illustrates a unified down-converting and filtering
(UDF) module according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0030] FIG. 18 is a table of example values at nodes in the UDF
module of FIG. 17;
[0031] FIG. 19 is a detailed diagram of an example UDF module
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0032] FIGS. 20A and 20A-1 are example aliasing modules according
to embodiments of the invention;
[0033] FIGS. 20B-20F are example waveforms used to describe the
operation of the aliasing modules of FIGS. 20A and 20A-1;
[0034] FIG. 21 illustrates an enhanced signal reception system
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0035] FIGS. 22A-22F are example waveforms is used to describe the
system of FIG. 21;
[0036] FIG. 23A illustrates an example transmitter in an enhanced
signal reception system according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0037] FIGS. 23B and 23C are example waveforms used to further
describe the enhanced signal reception system according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0038] FIG. 23D illustrates another example transmitter in an
enhanced signal reception system according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0039] FIGS. 23E and 23F are example waveforms used to further
describe the enhanced signal reception system according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0040] FIG. 24A illustrates an example receiver in an enhanced
signal reception system according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0041] FIGS. 24B-24J are example waveforms used to further describe
the enhanced signal reception system according to an embodiment of
the invention;
[0042] FIG. 25 illustrates an environment comprising telephones and
base stations according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0043] FIG. 26 illustrates a positioning unit according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0044] FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate communication networks according
to embodiments of the invention;
[0045] FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate pagers according to embodiments
of the invention;
[0046] FIG. 31 illustrates a security system according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0047] FIG. 32 illustrates a repeater according to an embodiment of
the invention;
[0048] FIG. 33 illustrates mobile radios according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0049] FIG. 34 illustrates an environment involving satellite
communications according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0050] FIG. 35 illustrates a computer and its peripherals according
to an embodiment of the invention;
[0051] FIGS. 36-38 illustrate home control devices according to
embodiments of the invention;
[0052] FIG. 39 illustrates an example automobile according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0053] FIG. 40A illustrates an example aircraft according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0054] FIG. 40B illustrates an example boat according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0055] FIG. 41 illustrates radio controlled devices according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0056] FIGS. 42A-42D illustrate example frequency bands operable
with embodiments of the invention, where FIG. 42D illustrates the
orientation of FIGS. 42A-42C (some overlap is shown in FIGS.
42A-42C for illustrative purposes);
[0057] FIG. 43 illustrates an example radio synchronous watch
according to an embodiment of the invention; and
[0058] FIG. 44 illustrates an example radio according to an
embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Table of Contents
Universal Frequency Translation
Frequency Down-conversion
Frequency Up-conversion
Enhanced Signal Reception
Unified Down-conversion and Filtering
Example Application Embodiments of the Invention
[0059] Telephones
[0060] Base Stations
[0061] Positioning
[0062] Data Communication
[0063] Pagers
[0064] Security
[0065] Repeaters
[0066] Mobile Radios
[0067] Satellite Up/Down Links
[0068] Command and Control [0069] PC Peripherals [0070]
Building/Home Functions [0071] Automotive Controls [0072] Aircraft
Controls [0073] Maritime Controls
[0074] Radio Control
[0075] Radio Synchronous Watch
[0076] Other Example Applications [0077] Applications Involving
Enhanced Signal Reception [0078] Applications Involving Unified
Down-conversion and Filtering
Conclusion
Universal Frequency Translation
[0079] The present invention is related to frequency translation,
and applications of same. Such applications include, but are not
limited to, frequency down-conversion, frequency up-conversion,
enhanced signal reception, unified down-conversion and filtering,
and combinations and applications of same.
[0080] FIG. 1A illustrates a universal frequency translation (UFT)
module 102 according to embodiments of the invention. (The UFT
module is also sometimes called a universal frequency translator,
or a universal translator.)
[0081] As indicated by the example of FIG. 1A, some embodiments of
the UFT module 102 include three ports (nodes), designated in FIG.
1A as Port 1, Port 2, and Port 3. Other UFT embodiments include
other than three ports.
[0082] Generally, the UFT module 102 (perhaps in combination with
other components) operates to generate an output signal from an
input signal, where the frequency of the output signal differs from
the frequency of the input signal. In other words, the UFT module
102 (and perhaps other components) operates to generate the output
signal from the input signal by translating the frequency (and
perhaps other characteristics) of the input signal to the frequency
(and perhaps other characteristics) of the output signal.
[0083] An example embodiment of the UFT module 103 is generally
illustrated in FIG. 1B. Generally, the UFT module 103 includes a
switch 106 controlled by a control signal 108. The switch 106 is
said to be a controlled switch.
[0084] As noted above, some UFT embodiments include other than
three ports. For example, and without limitation, FIG. 2
illustrates an example UFT module 202. The example UFT module 202
includes a diode 204 having two ports, designated as Port 1 and
Port 2/3. This embodiment does not include a third port, as
indicated by the dotted line around the "Port 3" label.
[0085] The UFT module is a very powerful and flexible device. Its
flexibility is illustrated, in part, by the wide range of
applications in which it can be used. Its power is illustrated, in
part, by the usefulness and performance of such applications.
[0086] For example, a UFT module 115 can be used in a universal
frequency down-conversion (UFD) module 114, an example of which is
shown in FIG. 1C. In this capacity, the UFT module 115 frequency
down-converts an input signal to an output signal.
[0087] As another example, as shown in FIG. 1D, a UFT module 117
can be used in a universal frequency up-conversion (UFU) module
116. In this capacity, the UFT module 117 frequency up-converts an
input signal to an output signal.
[0088] These and other applications of the UFT module are described
below. Additional applications of the UFT module will be apparent
to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on the teachings
contained herein. In some applications, the UFT module is a
required component. In other applications, the UFT module is an
optional component.
Frequency Down-Conversion
[0089] The present invention is directed to systems and methods of
universal frequency down-conversion, and applications of same.
[0090] In particular, the following discussion describes
down-converting using a Universal Frequency Translation Module. The
down-conversion of an EM signal by aliasing the EM signal at an
aliasing rate is fully described in co-pending U.S. patent
application entitled "Method and System for Down-Converting
Electromagnetic Signals," Ser. No. 09/176,022, filed Oct. 21, 1998,
the full disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. A
relevant portion of the above mentioned patent application is
summarized below to describe down-converting an input signal to
produce a down-converted signal that exists at a lower frequency or
a baseband signal.
[0091] FIG. 20A illustrates an aliasing module 2000 for
down-conversion using a universal frequency translation (UFT)
module 2002 which down-converts an EM input signal 2004. In
particular embodiments, aliasing module 2000 includes a switch 2008
and a capacitor 2010. The electronic alignment of the circuit
components is flexible. That is, in one implementation, the switch
2008 is in series with input signal 2004 and capacitor 2010 is
shunted to ground (although it may be other than ground in
configurations such as differential mode). In a second
implementation (see FIG. 20A-1), the capacitor 2010 is in series
with the input signal 2004 and the switch 2008 is shunted to ground
(although it may be other than ground in configurations such as
differential mode). Aliasing module 2000 with UFT module 2002 can
be easily tailored to down-convert a wide variety of
electromagnetic signals using aliasing frequencies that are well
below the frequencies of the EM input signal 2004.
[0092] In one implementation, aliasing module 2000 down-converts
the input signal 2004 to an intermediate frequency (IF) signal. In
another implementation, the aliasing module 2000 down-converts the
input signal 2004 to a demodulated baseband signal. In yet another
implementation, the input signal 2004 is a frequency modulated (FM)
signal, and the aliasing module 2000 down-converts it to a non-FM
signal, such as a phase modulated (PM) signal or an amplitude
modulated (AM) signal. Each of the above implementations is
described below.
[0093] In an embodiment, the control signal 2006 includes a train
of pulses that repeat at an aliasing rate that is equal to, or less
than, twice the frequency of the input signal 2004. In this
embodiment, the control signal 2006 is referred to herein as an
aliasing signal because it is below the Nyquist rate for the
frequency of the input signal 2004. Preferably, the frequency of
control signal 2006 is much less than the input signal 2004.
[0094] A train of pulses 2018 as shown in FIG. 20D controls the
switch 2008 to alias the input signal 2004 with the control signal
2006 to generate a down-converted output signal 2012. More
specifically, in an embodiment, switch 2008 closes on a first edge
of each pulse 2020 of FIG. 20D and opens on a second edge of each
pulse. When the switch 2008 is closed, the input signal 2004 is
coupled to the capacitor 2010, and charge is transferred from the
input signal to the capacitor 2010. The charge stored during
successive pulses forms down-converted output signal 2012.
[0095] Exemplary waveforms is are shown in FIGS. 20B-20F.
[0096] FIG. 20B illustrates an analog amplitude modulated (AM)
carrier signal 2014 that is an example of input signal 2004. For
illustrative purposes, in FIG. 20C, an analog AM carrier signal
portion 2016 illustrates a portion of the analog AM carrier signal
2014 on an expanded time scale. The analog AM carrier signal
portion 2016 illustrates the analog AM carrier signal 2014 from
time to t.sub.0 time t.sub.1.
[0097] FIG. 20D illustrates an exemplary aliasing signal 2018 that
is an example of control signal 2006. Aliasing signal 2018 is on
approximately the same time scale as the analog AM carrier signal
portion 2016. In the example shown in FIG. 20D, the aliasing signal
2018 includes a train of pulses 2020 having negligible apertures
that tend towards zero (the invention is not limited to this
embodiment, as discussed below). The pulse aperture may also be
referred to as the pulse width as will be understood by those
skilled in the art(s). The pulses 2020 repeat at an aliasing rate,
or pulse repetition rate of aliasing signal 2018. The aliasing rate
is determined as described below, and further described in
co-pending U.S. patent application entitled "Method and System for
Down-converting Electromagnetic Signals," application Ser. No.
09/176,022.
[0098] As noted above, the train of pulses 2020 (i.e., control
signal 2006) control the switch 2008 to alias the analog AM carrier
signal 2016 (i.e., input signal 2004) at the aliasing rate of the
aliasing signal 2018. Specifically, in this embodiment, the switch
2008 closes on a first edge of each pulse and opens on a second
edge of each pulse. When the switch 2008 is closed, input signal
2004 is coupled to the capacitor 2010, and charge is transferred
from the input signal 2004 to the capacitor 2010. The charge
transferred during a pulse is referred to herein as an
under-sample. Exemplary under-samples 2022 form down-converted
signal portion 2024 (FIG. 20E) that corresponds to the analog AM
carrier signal portion 2016 (FIG. 20C) and the train of pulses 2020
(FIG. 20D). The charge stored during successive under-samples of AM
carrier signal 2014 form the down-converted signal 2024 (FIG. 20E)
that is an example of down-converted output signal 2012 (FIG. 20A).
In FIG. 20F, a demodulated baseband signal 2026 represents the
demodulated baseband signal 2024 after filtering on a compressed
time scale. As illustrated, down-converted signal 2026 has
substantially the same "amplitude envelope" as AM carrier signal
2014. Therefore, FIGS. 20B-20F illustrate down-conversion of AM
carrier signal 2014.
[0099] The waveforms shown in FIGS. 20B-20F are discussed herein
for illustrative purposes only, and are not limiting. Additional
exemplary time domain and frequency domain drawings, and exemplary
methods and systems of the invention relating thereto, are
disclosed in co-pending U.S. patent application entitled "Method
and System for Down-converting Electromagnetic Signals,"
application Ser. No. 09/176,022.
[0100] The aliasing rate of control signal 2006 determines whether
the input signal 2004 is down-converted to an IF signal,
down-converted to a demodulated baseband signal, or down-converted
from an FM signal to a PM or an AM signal. Generally, relationships
between the input signal 2004, the aliasing rate of the control
signal 2006, and the down-converted output signal 2012 are
illustrated below:
(Freq. of input signal 2004)=n((Freq. of control signal
2006).+-.(Freq. of down-converted output signal 2012)
For the examples contained herein, only the "+" condition will be
discussed. The value of n represents a harmonic or sub-harmonic of
input signal 2004 (e.g., n=0.5, 1, 2, 3, . . . ).
[0101] When the aliasing rate of control signal 2006 is off-set
from the frequency of input signal 2004, or off-set from a harmonic
or sub-harmonic thereof, input signal 2004 is down-converted to an
IF signal. This is because the under-sampling pulses occur at
different phases of subsequent cycles of input signal 2004. As a
result, the under-samples form a lower frequency oscillating
pattern. If the input signal 2004 includes lower frequency changes,
such as amplitude, frequency, phase, etc., or any combination
thereof, the charge stored during associated under-samples reflects
the lower frequency changes, resulting in similar changes on the
down-converted IF signal. For example, to down-convert a 901 MHZ
input signal to a 1 MHZ IF signal, the frequency of the control
signal 2006 would be calculated as follows:
(Freq.sub.input-Freq.sub.1F/n=Freq.sub.control
(901 MHZ-1 MHZ)/n=900/n
For n=0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc., the frequency of the control signal
2006 would be substantially equal to 1.8 GHz, 900 MHZ, 450 MHZ, 300
MHZ, 225 MHZ, etc.
[0102] Exemplary time domain and frequency domain drawings,
illustrating down-conversion of analog and digital AM, PM and FM
signals to IF signals, and exemplary methods and systems thereof,
are disclosed in co-pending U.S. patent application entitled
"Method and System for Down-converting Electromagnetic Signals,"
application Ser. No. 09/176,022.
[0103] Alternatively, when the aliasing rate of the control signal
2006 is substantially equal to the frequency of the input signal
2004, or substantially equal to a harmonic or sub-harmonic thereof,
input signal 2004 is directly down-converted to a demodulated
baseband signal. This is because, without modulation, the
under-sampling pulses occur at the same point of subsequent cycles
of the input signal 2004. As a result, the under-samples form a
constant output baseband signal. If the input signal 2004 includes
lower frequency changes, such as amplitude, frequency, phase, etc.,
or any combination thereof, the charge stored during associated
under-samples reflects the lower frequency changes, resulting in
similar changes on the demodulated baseband signal. For example, to
directly down-convert a 900 MHZ input signal to a demodulated
baseband signal (i.e., zero IF), the frequency of the control
signal 2006 would be calculated as follows:
(Freq.sub.input-Freq.sub.1F/n=Freq.sub.control
(900 MHZ-1 MHZ)/n=900 MHZ/n
For n=0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc., the frequency of the control signal
2006 should be substantially equal to 1.8 GHz, 900 MHZ, 450 MHZ,
300 MHZ, 225 MHZ, etc.
[0104] Exemplary time domain and frequency domain drawings,
illustrating direct down-conversion of analog and digital AM and PM
signals to demodulated baseband signals, and exemplary methods and
systems thereof, are disclosed in the co-pending U.S. patent
application entitled "Method and System for Down-converting
Electromagnetic Signals," application Ser. No. 09/176,022.
[0105] Alternatively, to down-convert an input FM signal to a
non-FM signal, a frequency within the FM bandwidth must be
down-converted to baseband (i.e., zero IF). As an example, to
down-convert a frequency shift keying (FSK) signal (a sub-set of
FM) to a phase shift keying (PSK) signal (a subset of PM), the
mid-point between a lower frequency F.sub.1 and an upper frequency
F.sub.2 (that is, [(F1+F2)/2]) of the FSK signal is down-converted
to zero IF. For example, to down-convert an FSK signal having
F.sub.1 equal to 899 MHZ and F.sub.2 equal to 901 MHZ, to a PSK
signal, the aliasing rate of the control signal 2006 would be
calculated as follows:
Frequency of the input = ( F .dwnarw. 1 + F .dwnarw. 2 ) / 2 = (
899 MHZ + 901 MHZ ) / 2 = 900 MHZ ##EQU00001##
Frequency of the down-converted signal=0 (i.e., baseband)
(Freq.sub.input-Freq.sub.1F/n=Freq.sub.control
(900 MHZ-0 MHZ)/n=900 MHZ/n
For n=0.5, 1, 2, 3, etc., the frequency of the control signal 2006
should be substantially equal to 1.8 GHz, 900 MHZ, 450 MHZ, 300
MHZ, 225 MHZ, etc. The frequency of the down-converted PSK signal
is substantially equal to one half the difference between the lower
frequency F.sub.1 and the upper frequency F.sub.2.
[0106] As another example, to down-convert a FSK signal to an
amplitude shift keying (ASK) signal (a subset of AM), either the
lower frequency F.sub.1 or the upper frequency F.sub.2 of the FSK
signal is down-converted to zero IF. For example, to down-convert
an FSK signal having F.sub.1 equal to 900 MHZ and F.sub.2 equal to
901 MHZ, to an ASK signal, the aliasing rate of the control signal
2006 should be substantially equal to:
(900 MHZ-0 MHZ)/n=900 MHZ/n, or
(901 MHZ-0 MHZ)/n=900 MHZ/n
For the former case of 900 MHZ/n, and for n=0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.,
the frequency of the control signal 2006 should be substantially
equal to 1.8 GHz, 900 MHZ, 450 MHZ, 300 MHZ, 225 MHZ, etc. For the
latter case of 900 MHZ/n, and for n=0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc., the
frequency of the control signal 2006 should be substantially equal
to 1.802 GHz, 901 MHZ, 450.5 MHZ, 300.333 MHZ, 225.25 MHZ, etc. The
frequency of the down-converted AM signal is substantially equal to
the difference between the lower frequency F.sub.1 and the upper
frequency F.sub.2 (i.e., 1 MHZ).
[0107] Exemplary time domain and frequency domain drawings,
illustrating down-conversion of FM signals to non-FM signals, and
exemplary methods and systems thereof, are disclosed in the
co-pending U.S. patent application entitled "Method and System for
Down-converting Electromagnetic Signals," application Ser. No.
09/176,022.
[0108] In an embodiment, the pulses of the control signal 2006 have
negligible apertures that tend towards zero. This makes the UFT
module 2002 a high input impedance device. This configuration is
useful for situations where minimal disturbance of the input signal
may be desired.
[0109] In another embodiment, the pulses of the control signal 2006
have non-negligible apertures that tend away from zero. This makes
the UFT module 2002 a lower input impedance device. This allows the
lower input impedance of the UFT module 2002 to be substantially
matched with a source impedance of the input signal 2004. This also
improves the energy transfer from the input signal 2004 to the
down-converted output signal 2012, and hence the efficiency and
signal to noise (s/n) ratio of UFT module 2002.
[0110] Exemplary systems and methods for generating and optimizing
the control signal 2006, and for otherwise improving energy
transfer and s/n ratio, are disclosed in the co-pending U.S. patent
application entitled "Method and System for Down-converting
Electromagnetic Signals," application Ser. No. 09/176,022.
Frequency Up-Conversion
[0111] The present invention is directed to systems and methods of
frequency up-conversion, and applications of same.
[0112] An example frequency up-conversion system 300 is illustrated
in FIG. 3. The frequency up-conversion system 300 is now
described.
[0113] An input signal 302 (designated as "Control Signal" in FIG.
3) is accepted by a switch module 304. For purposes of example
only, assume that the input signal 302 is a FM input signal 606, an
example of which is shown in FIG. 6C. FM input signal 606 may have
been generated by modulating information signal 602 onto
oscillating signal 604 (FIGS. 6A and 6B). It should be understood
that the invention is not limited to this embodiment. The
information signal 602 can be analog, digital, or any combination
thereof, and any modulation scheme can be used.
[0114] The output of switch module 304 is a harmonically rich
signal 306, shown for example in FIG. 6D as a harmonically rich
signal 608. The harmonically rich signal 608 has a continuous and
periodic waveform.
[0115] FIG. 6E is an expanded view of two sections of harmonically
rich signal 608, section 610 and section 612. The harmonically rich
signal 608 may be a rectangular wave, such as a square wave or a
pulse (although, the invention is not limited to this embodiment).
For ease of discussion, the term "rectangular waveform" is used to
refer to waveforms that are substantially rectangular. In a similar
manner, the term "square wave" refers to those waveforms that are
substantially square and it is not the intent of the present
invention that a perfect square wave be generated or needed.
[0116] Harmonically rich signal 608 is comprised of a plurality of
sinusoidal waves whose frequencies are integer multiples of the
fundamental frequency of the waveform of the harmonically rich
signal 608. These sinusoidal waves are referred to as the harmonics
of the underlying waveform, and the fundamental frequency is
referred to as the first harmonic. FIG. 6F and FIG. 6G show
separately the sinusoidal components making up the first, third,
and fifth harmonics of section 610 and section 612. (Note that in
theory there may be an infinite number of harmonics; in this
example, because harmonically rich signal 608 is shown as a square
wave, there are only odd harmonics). Three harmonics are shown
simultaneously (but not summed) in FIG. 6H.
[0117] The relative amplitudes of the harmonics are generally a
function of the relative widths of the pulses of harmonically rich
signal 306 and the period of the fundamental frequency, and can be
determined by doing a Fourier analysis of harmonically rich signal
306. According to an embodiment of the invention, the input signal
606 may be shaped to ensure that the amplitude of the desired
harmonic is sufficient for its intended use (e.g.,
transmission).
[0118] A filter 308 filters out any undesired frequencies
(harmonics), and outputs an electromagnetic (EM) signal at the
desired harmonic frequency or frequencies as an output signal 310,
shown for example as a filtered output signal 614 in FIG. 6I.
[0119] FIG. 4 illustrates an example universal frequency
up-conversion (UFU) module 401. The UFU module 401 includes an
example switch module 304, which comprises a bias signal 402, a
resistor or impedance 404, a universal frequency translator (UFT)
450, and a ground 408. The UFT 450 includes a switch 406. The input
signal 302 (designated as "Control Signal" in FIG. 4) controls the
switch 406 in the UFT 450, and causes it to close and open.
Harmonically rich signal 306 is generated at a node 405 located
between the resistor or impedance 404 and the switch 406.
[0120] Also in FIG. 4, it can be seen that an example filter 308 is
comprised of a capacitor 410 and an inductor 412 shunted to a
ground 414. The filter is designed to filter out the undesired
harmonics of harmonically rich signal 306.
[0121] The invention is not limited to the UFU embodiment shown in
FIG. 4.
[0122] For example, in an alternate embodiment shown in FIG. 5, an
unshaped input signal 501 is routed to a pulse shaping module 502.
The pulse shaping module 502 modifies the unshaped input signal 501
to generate a (modified) input signal 302 (designated as the
"Control Signal" in FIG. 5). The input signal 302 is routed to the
switch module 304, which operates in the manner described above.
Also, the filter 308 of FIG. 5 operates in the manner described
above.
[0123] The purpose of the pulse shaping module 502 is to define the
pulse width of the input signal 302. Recall that the input signal
302 controls the opening and closing of the switch 406 in switch
module 304. During such operation, the pulse width of the input
signal 302 establishes the pulse width of the harmonically rich
signal 306. As stated above, the relative amplitudes of the
harmonics of the harmonically rich signal 306 are a function of at
least the pulse width of the harmonically rich signal 306. As such,
the pulse width of the input signal 302 contributes to setting the
relative amplitudes of the harmonics of harmonically rich signal
306.
[0124] Further details of up-conversion as described in this
section are presented in pending U.S. application "Method and
System for Frequency Up-Conversion," Ser. No. 09/176,154, filed
Oct. 21, 1998, incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
Enhanced Signal Reception
[0125] The present invention is directed to systems and methods of
enhanced signal reception (ESR), and applications of same.
[0126] Referring to FIG. 21, transmitter 2104 accepts a modulating
baseband signal 2102 and generates (transmitted) redundant
spectrums 2106a-n, which are sent over communications medium 2108.
Receiver 2112 recovers a demodulated baseband signal 2114 from
(received) redundant spectrums 2110a-n. Demodulated baseband signal
2114 is representative of the modulating baseband signal 2102,
where the level of similarity between the modulating baseband
signal 2114 and the modulating baseband signal 2102 is application
dependent.
[0127] Modulating baseband signal 2102 is preferably any
information signal desired for transmission and/or reception. An
example modulating baseband signal 2202 is illustrated in FIG. 22A,
and has an associated modulating baseband spectrum 2204 and image
spectrum 2203 that are illustrated in FIG. 22B. Modulating baseband
signal 2202 is illustrated as an analog signal in FIG. 22a, but
could also be a digital signal, or combination thereof. Modulating
baseband signal 2202 could be a voltage (or current)
characterization of any number of real world occurrences, including
for example and without limitation, the voltage (or current)
representation for a voice signal.
[0128] Each transmitted redundant spectrum 2106a-n contains the
necessary information to substantially reconstruct the modulating
baseband signal 2102. In other words, each redundant spectrum
2106a-n contains the necessary amplitude, phase, and frequency
information to reconstruct the modulating baseband signal 2102.
[0129] FIG. 22C illustrates example transmitted redundant spectrums
2206b-d. Transmitted redundant spectrums 2206b-d are illustrated to
contain three redundant spectrums for illustration purposes only.
Any number of redundant spectrums could be generated and
transmitted as will be explained in following discussions.
[0130] Transmitted redundant spectrums 2206b-d are centered at
f.sub.1, with a frequency spacing f.sub.2 between adjacent
spectrums. Frequencies f.sub.1 and f.sub.2 are dynamically
adjustable in real-time as will be shown below. FIG. 22D
illustrates an alternate embodiment, where redundant spectrums
2208c,d are centered on unmodulated oscillating signal 2209 at
f.sub.1 (Hz). Oscillating signal 2209 may be suppressed if desired
using, for example, phasing techniques or filtering techniques.
Transmitted redundant spectrums are preferably above baseband
frequencies as is represented by break 2205 in the frequency axis
of FIGS. 22C and 22D.
[0131] Received redundant spectrums 2110a-n are substantially
similar to transmitted redundant spectrums 2106a-n, except for the
changes introduced by the communications medium 2108. Such changes
can include but are not limited to signal attenuation, and signal
interference. FIG. 22E illustrates example received redundant
spectrums 2210b-d. Received redundant spectrums 2210b-d are
substantially similar to transmitted redundant spectrums 2206b-d,
except that redundant spectrum 2210c includes an undesired jamming
signal spectrum 2211 in order to illustrate some advantages of the
present invention. Jamming signal spectrum 2211 is a frequency
spectrum associated with a jamming signal. For purposes of this
invention, a "jamming signal" refers to any unwanted signal,
regardless of origin, that may interfere with the proper reception
and reconstruction of an intended signal. Furthermore, the jamming
signal is not limited to tones as depicted by spectrum 2211, and
can have any spectral shape, as will be understood by those skilled
in the art(s).
[0132] As stated above, demodulated baseband signal 2114 is
extracted from one or more of received redundant spectrums 2210b-d.
FIG. 22F illustrates example demodulated baseband signal 2212 that
is, in this example, substantially similar to modulating baseband
signal 2202 (FIG. 22A); where in practice, the degree of similarity
is application dependent.
[0133] An advantage of the present invention should now be
apparent. The recovery of modulating baseband signal 2202 can be
accomplished by receiver 2112 in spite of the fact that high
strength jamming signal(s) (e.g. jamming signal spectrum 2211)
exist on the communications medium. The intended baseband signal
can be recovered because multiple redundant spectrums are
transmitted, where each redundant spectrum carries the necessary
information to reconstruct the baseband signal. At the destination,
the redundant spectrums are isolated from each other so that the
baseband signal can be recovered even if one or more of the
redundant spectrums are corrupted by a jamming signal.
[0134] Transmitter 2104 will now be explored in greater detail.
FIG. 23A illustrates transmitter 2301, which is one embodiment of
transmitter 2104 that generates redundant spectrums configured
similar to redundant spectrums 2206b-d. Transmitter 2301 includes
generator 2303, optional spectrum processing module 2304, and
optional medium interface module 2320. Generator 2303 includes:
first oscillator 2302, second oscillator 2309, first stage
modulator 2306, and second stage modulator 2310.
[0135] Transmitter 2301 operates as follows. First oscillator 2302
and second oscillator 2309 generate a first oscillating signal 2305
and second oscillating signal 2312, respectively. First stage
modulator 2306 modulates first oscillating signal 2305 with
modulating baseband signal 2202, resulting in modulated signal
2308. First stage modulator 2306 may implement any type of
modulation including but not limited to: amplitude modulation,
frequency modulation, phase modulation, combinations thereof, or
any other type of modulation. Second stage modulator 2310 modulates
modulated signal 2308 with second oscillating signal 2312,
resulting in multiple redundant spectrums 2206a-n shown in FIG.
23B. Second stage modulator 2310 is preferably a phase modulator,
or a frequency modulator, although other types of modulation may be
implemented including but not limited to amplitude modulation. Each
redundant spectrum 2206a-n contains the necessary amplitude, phase,
and frequency information to substantially reconstruct the
modulating baseband signal 2202.
[0136] Redundant spectrums 2206a-n are substantially centered
around f.sub.1, which is the characteristic frequency of first
oscillating signal 2305. Also, each redundant spectrum 2206a-n
(except for 2206c) is offset from f.sub.1 by approximately a
multiple of f.sub.2 (Hz), where f.sub.z is the frequency of the
second oscillating signal 2312. Thus, each redundant spectrum
2206a-n is offset from an adjacent redundant spectrum by f.sub.2
(Hz). This allows the spacing between adjacent redundant spectrums
to be adjusted (or tuned) by changing f.sub.1 that is associated
with second oscillator 2309. Adjusting the spacing between adjacent
redundant spectrums allows for dynamic real-time tuning of the
bandwidth occupied by redundant spectrums 2206a-n.
[0137] In one embodiment, the number of redundant spectrums 2206a-n
generated by transmitter 2301 is arbitrary and may be unlimited as
indicated by the "a-n" designation for redundant spectrums 2206a-n.
However, a typical communications medium will have a physical
and/or administrative limitations (i.e. FCC regulations) that
restrict the number of redundant spectrums that can be practically
transmitted over the communications medium. Also, there may be
other reasons to limit the number of redundant spectrums
transmitted. Therefore, preferably, the transmitter 2301 will
include an optional spectrum processing module 2304 to process the
redundant spectrums 2206a-n prior to transmission over
communications medium 2108.
[0138] In one embodiment, spectrum processing module 2304 includes
a filter with a passband 2207 (FIG. 23C) to select redundant
spectrums 2206b-d for transmission. This will substantially limit
the frequency bandwidth occupied by the redundant spectrums to the
passband 2207. In one embodiment, spectrum processing module 2304
also up converts redundant spectrums and/or amplifies redundant
spectrums prior to transmission over the communications medium
2108. Finally, medium interface module 2320 transmits redundant
spectrums over the communications medium 2108. In one embodiment,
communications medium 2108 is an over-the-air link and medium
interface module 2320 is an antenna. Other embodiments for
communications medium 2108 and medium interface module 2320 will be
understood based on the teachings contained herein.
[0139] FIG. 23D illustrates transmitter 2321, which is one
embodiment of transmitter 2104 that generates redundant spectrums
configured similar to redundant spectrums 2208c-d and unmodulated
spectrum 2209. Transmitter 2321 includes generator 2311, spectrum
processing module 2304, and (optional) medium interface module
2320. Generator 2311 includes: first oscillator 2302, second
oscillator 2309, first stage modulator 2306, and second stage
modulator 2310.
[0140] As shown in FIG. 23D, many of the components in transmitter
2321 are similar to those in transmitter 2301. However, in this
embodiment, modulating baseband signal 2202 modulates second
oscillating signal 2312. Transmitter 2321 operates as follows.
First stage modulator 2306 modulates second oscillating signal 2312
with modulating baseband signal 2202, resulting in modulated signal
2322. As described earlier, first stage modulator 2306 can affect
any type of modulation including but not limited to: amplitude
modulation frequency modulation, combinations thereof, or any other
type of modulation. Second stage modulator 2310 modulates first
oscillating signal 2304 with modulated signal 2322, resulting in
redundant spectrums 2208a-n, as shown in FIG. 23E. Second stage
modulator 2310 is preferably a phase or frequency modulator,
although other modulators could used including but not limited to
an amplitude modulator.
[0141] Redundant spectrums 2208a-n are centered on unmodulated
spectrum 2209 (at f.sub.1 Hz), and adjacent spectrums are separated
by f.sub.2 Hz. The number of redundant spectrums 2208a-n generated
by generator 2311 is arbitrary and unlimited, similar to spectrums
2206a-n discussed above. Therefore, optional spectrum processing
module 2304 may also include a filter with passband 2325 to select,
for example, spectrums 2208c,d for transmission over communications
medium 2108. In addition, optional spectrum processing module 2304
may also include a filter (such as a bandstop filter) to attenuate
unmodulated spectrum 2209. Alternatively, unmodulated spectrum 2209
may be attenuated by using phasing techniques during redundant
spectrum generation. Finally, (optional) medium interface module
2320 transmits redundant spectrums 2208c,d over communications
medium 2108.
[0142] Receiver 2112 will now be explored in greater detail to
illustrate recovery of a demodulated baseband signal from received
redundant spectrums. FIG. 24A illustrates receiver 2430, which is
one embodiment of receiver 2112. Receiver 2430 includes optional
medium interface module 2402, down-converter 2404, spectrum
isolation module 2408, and data extraction module 2414. Spectrum
isolation module 2408 includes filters 2410a-c. Data extraction
module 2414 includes demodulators 2416a-c, error check modules
2420a-c, and arbitration module 2424. Receiver 2430 will be
discussed in relation to the signal diagrams in FIGS. 24B-24J.
[0143] In one embodiment, optional medium interface module 2402
receives redundant spectrums 2210b-d (FIG. 22E, and FIG. 24B). Each
redundant spectrum 2210b-d includes the necessary amplitude, phase,
and frequency information to substantially reconstruct the
modulating baseband signal used to generated the redundant
spectrums. However, in the present example, spectrum 2210c also
contains jamming signal 2211, which may interfere with the recovery
of a baseband signal from spectrum 2210c. Down-converter 2404
down-converts received redundant spectrums 2210b-d to lower
intermediate frequencies, resulting in redundant spectrums 2406a-c
(FIG. 24C). Jamming signal 2211 is also down-converted to jamming
signal 2407, as it is contained within redundant spectrum 2406b.
Spectrum isolation module 2408 includes filters 2410a-c that
isolate redundant spectrums 2406a-c from each other (FIGS. 24D-24F,
respectively). Demodulators 2416a-c independently demodulate
spectrums 2406a-c, resulting in demodulated baseband signals
2418a-c, respectively (FIGS. 24G-24I). Error check modules 2420a-c
analyze demodulate baseband signal 2418a-c to detect any errors. In
one embodiment, each error check module 2420a-c sets an error flag
2422a-c whenever an error is detected in a demodulated baseband
signal. Arbitration module 2424 accepts the demodulated baseband
signals and associated error flags, and selects a substantially
error-free demodulated baseband signal (FIG. 24J). In one
embodiment, the substantially error-free demodulated baseband
signal will be substantially similar to the modulating baseband
signal used to generate the received redundant spectrums, where the
degree of similarity is application dependent.
[0144] Referring to FIGS. 24G-I, arbitration module 2424 will
select either demodulated baseband signal 2418a or 2418c, because
error check module 2420b will set the error flag 2422b that is
associated with demodulated baseband signal 2418b.
[0145] The error detection schemes implemented by the error
detection modules include but are not limited to: cyclic redundancy
check (CRC) and parity check for digital signals, and various error
detections schemes for analog signal.
[0146] Further details of enhanced signal reception as described in
this section are presented in pending U.S. application "Method and
System for Ensuring Reception of a Communications Signal," Ser. No.
09/176,415, filed Oct. 21, 1998, incorporated herein by reference
in its entirety.
Unified Down-Conversion and Filtering
[0147] The present invention is directed to systems and methods of
unified down-conversion and filtering (UDF), and applications of
same.
[0148] In particular, the present invention includes a unified
down-converting and filtering (UDF) module that performs frequency
selectivity and frequency translation in a unified (i.e.,
integrated) manner. By operating in this manner, the invention
achieves high frequency selectivity prior to frequency translation
(the invention is not limited to this embodiment). The invention
achieves high frequency selectivity at substantially any frequency,
including but not limited to RF (radio frequency) and greater
frequencies. It should be understood that the invention is not
limited to this example of RF and greater frequencies. The
invention is intended, adapted, and capable of working with lower
than radio frequencies.
[0149] FIG. 17 is a conceptual block diagram of a UDF module 1702
according to an embodiment of the present invention. The UDF module
1702 performs at least frequency translation and frequency
selectivity.
[0150] The effect achieved by the UDF module 1702 is to perform the
frequency selectivity operation prior to the performance of the
frequency translation operation. Thus, the UDF module 1702
effectively performs input filtering.
[0151] According to embodiments of the present invention, such
input filtering involves a relatively narrow bandwidth. For
example, such input filtering may represent channel select
filtering, where the filter bandwidth may be, for example, 50 KHz
to 150 KHz. It should be understood, however, that the invention is
not limited to these frequencies. The invention is intended,
adapted, and capable of achieving filter bandwidths of less than
and greater than these values.
[0152] In embodiments of the invention, input signals 1704 received
by the UDF module 1702 are at radio frequencies. The UDF module
1702 effectively operates to input filter these RF input signals
1704. Specifically, in these embodiments, the UDF module 1702
effectively performs input, channel select filtering of the RF
input signal 1704. Accordingly, the invention achieves high
selectivity at high frequencies.
[0153] The UDF module 1702 effectively performs various types of
filtering, including but not limited to bandpass filtering, low
pass filtering, high pass filtering, notch filtering, all pass
filtering, band stop filtering, etc., and combinations thereof.
[0154] Conceptually, the UDF module 1702 includes a frequency
translator 1708. The frequency translator 1708 conceptually
represents that portion of the UDF module 1702 that performs
frequency translation (down conversion).
[0155] The UDF module 1702 also conceptually includes an apparent
input filter 1706 (also sometimes called an input filtering
emulator). Conceptually, the apparent input filter 1706 represents
that portion of the UDF module 1702 that performs input
filtering.
[0156] In practice, the input filtering operation performed by the
UDF module 1702 is integrated with the frequency translation
operation. The input filtering operation can be viewed as being
performed concurrently with the frequency translation operation.
This is a reason why the input filter 1706 is herein referred to as
an "apparent" input filter 1706.
[0157] The UDF module 1702 of the present invention includes a
number of advantages. For example, high selectivity at high
frequencies is realizable using the UDF module 1702. This feature
of the invention is evident by the high Q factors that are
attainable. For example, and without limitation, the UDF module
1702 can be designed with a filter center frequency f.sub.c on the
order of 900 MHZ, and a filter bandwidth on the order of 50 KHz.
This represents a Q of 18,000 (Q is equal to the center frequency
divided by the bandwidth).
[0158] It should be understood that the invention is not limited to
filters with high Q factors. The filters contemplated by the
present invention may have lesser or greater Qs, depending on the
application, design, and/or implementation. Also, the scope of the
invention includes filters where Q factor as discussed herein is
not applicable.
[0159] The invention exhibits additional advantages. For example,
the filtering center frequency f.sub.c of the UDF module 1702 can
be electrically adjusted, either statically or dynamically.
[0160] Also, the UDF module 1702 can be designed to amplify input
signals.
[0161] Further, the UDF module 1702 can be implemented without
large resistors, capacitors, or inductors. Also, the UDF module
1702 does not require that tight tolerances be maintained on the
values of its individual components, i.e., its resistors,
capacitors, inductors, etc. As a result, the architecture of the
UDF module 1702 is friendly to integrated circuit design techniques
and processes.
[0162] The features and advantages exhibited by the UDF module 1702
are achieved at least in part by adopting a new technological
paradigm with respect to frequency selectivity and translation.
Specifically, according to the present invention, the UDF module
1702 performs the frequency selectivity operation and the frequency
translation operation as a single, unified (integrated) operation.
According to the invention, operations relating to frequency
translation also contribute to the performance of frequency
selectivity, and vice versa.
[0163] According to embodiments of the present invention, the UDF
module generates an output signal from an input signal using
samples/instances of the input signal and samples/instances of the
output signal.
[0164] More particularly, first, the input signal is under-sampled.
This input sample includes information (such as amplitude, phase,
etc.) representative of the input signal existing at the time the
sample was taken.
[0165] As described further below, the effect of repetitively
performing this step is to translate the frequency (that is,
down-convert) of the input signal to a desired lower frequency,
such as an intermediate frequency (IF) or baseband.
[0166] Next, the input sample is held (that is, delayed).
[0167] Then, one or more delayed input samples (some of which may
have been scaled) are combined with one or more delayed instances
of the output signal (some of which may have been scaled) to
generate a current instance of the output signal.
[0168] Thus, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention,
the output signal is generated from prior samples/instances of the
input signal and/or the output signal. (It is noted that, in some
embodiments of the invention, current samples/instances of the
input signal and/or the output signal may be used to generate
current instances of the output signal). By operating in this
manner, the UDF module preferably performs input filtering and
frequency down-conversion in a unified manner.
[0169] FIG. 19 illustrates an example implementation of the unified
down-converting and filtering (UDF) module 1922. The UDF module
1922 performs the frequency translation operation and the frequency
selectivity operation in an integrated, unified manner as described
above, and as further described below.
[0170] In the example of FIG. 19, the frequency selectivity
operation performed by the UDF module 1922 comprises a band-pass
filtering operation according to EQ. 1, below, which is an example
representation of a band-pass filtering transfer function.
VO=.alpha..sub.1z.sup.-1VI-.beta..sub.1z.sup.-1VO-.beta..sub.1z.sup.-1VO
EQ. 1
[0171] It should be noted, however, that the invention is not
limited to band-pass filtering. Instead, the invention effectively
performs various types of filtering, including but not limited to
bandpass filtering, low pass filtering, high pass filtering, notch
filtering, all pass filtering, band stop filtering, etc., and
combinations thereof. As will be appreciated, there are many
representations of any given filter type. The invention is
applicable to these filter representations. Thus, EQ. 1 is referred
to herein for illustrative purposes only, and is not limiting.
[0172] The UDF module 1922 includes a down-convert and delay module
1924, first and second delay modules 1928 and 1930, first and
second scaling modules 1932 and 1934, an output sample and hold
module 1936, and an (optional) output smoothing module 1938. Other
embodiments of the UDF module will have these components in
different configurations, and/or a subset of these components,
and/or additional components. For example, and without limitation,
in the configuration shown in FIG. 19, the output smoothing module
1938 is optional.
[0173] As further described below, in the example of FIG. 19, the
down-convert and delay module 1924 and the first and second delay
modules 1928 and 1930 include switches that are controlled by a
clock having two phases, .phi..sub.1 and .phi..sub.2. .phi..sub.1
and .phi..sub.2 preferably have the same frequency, and are
non-overlapping (alternatively, a plurality such as two clock
signals having these characteristics could be used). As used
herein, the term "non-overlapping" is defined as two or more
signals where only one of the signals is active at any given time.
In some embodiments, signals are "active" when they are high. In
other embodiments, signals are active when they are low.
[0174] Preferably, each of these switches closes on a rising edge
of .phi..sub.1 or .phi..sub.2, and opens on the next corresponding
falling edge of .phi..sub.1 or .phi..sub.2. However, the invention
is not limited to this example. As will be apparent to persons
skilled in the relevant art(s), other clock conventions can be used
to control the switches.
[0175] In the example of FIG. 19, it is assumed that .alpha..sub.1
is equal to one. Thus, the output of the down-convert and delay
module 1924 is not scaled. As evident from the embodiments
described above, however, the invention is not limited to this
example.
[0176] The example UDF module 1922 has a filter center frequency of
900.2 MHZ and a filter bandwidth of 570 KHz. The pass band of the
UDF module 1922 is on the order of 899.915 MHZ to 900.485 MHZ. The
Q factor of the UDF module 1922 is approximately 1879 (i.e., 900.2
MHZ divided by 570 KHz).
[0177] The operation of the UDF module 1922 shall now be described
with reference to a Table 1802 (FIG. 18) that indicates example
values at nodes in the UDF module 1922 at a number of consecutive
time increments. It is assumed in Table 1802 that the UDF module
1922 begins operating at time t-1. As indicated below, the UDF
module 1922 reaches steady state a few time units after operation
begins. The number of time units necessary for a given UDF module
to reach steady state depends on the configuration of the UDF
module, and will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant
art(s) based on the teachings contained herein.
[0178] At the rising edge of .phi..sub.1 at time t-1, a switch 1950
in the down-convert and delay module 1924 closes. This allows a
capacitor 1952 to charge to the current value of an input signal,
VI.sub.t-1, such that node 1902 is at VI.sub.t-1. This is indicated
by cell 1804 in FIG. 18. In effect, the combination of the switch
1950 and the capacitor 1952 in the down-convert and delay module
1924 operates to translate the frequency of the input signal VI to
a desired lower frequency, such as IF or baseband. Thus, the value
stored in the capacitor 1952 represents an instance of a
down-converted image of the input signal VI.
[0179] The manner in which the down-convert and delay module 1924
performs frequency down-conversion is further described elsewhere
in this application, and is additionally described in pending U.S.
application "Method and System for Down-Converting Electromagnetic
Signals," Ser. No. 09/176,022, filed Oct. 21, 1998, which is herein
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0180] Also at the rising edge of .phi..sub.1 at time t-1, a switch
1958 in the first delay module 1928 closes, allowing a capacitor
1960 to charge to VO.sub.t-1, such that node 1906 is at VO.sub.t-1.
This is indicated by cell 1806 in Table 1802. (In practice, is
undefined at this point. However, for ease of understanding,
VI.sub.t-1 shall continue to be used for purposes of
explanation.)
[0181] Also at the rising edge of .phi..sub.1 at time t-1, a switch
1966 in the second delay module 1930 closes, allowing a capacitor
1968 to charge to a value stored in a capacitor 1964. At this time,
however, the value in capacitor 1964 is undefined, so the value in
capacitor 1968 is undefined. This is indicated by cell 1807 in
table 1802.
[0182] At the rising edge of .phi..sub.z at time t-1, a switch 1954
in the down-convert and delay module 1924 closes, allowing a
capacitor 1956 to charge to the level of the capacitor 1952.
Accordingly, the capacitor 1956 charges to VI.sub.t-1, such that
node 1904 is at VI.sub.t-1. This is indicated by cell 1810 in Table
1802.
[0183] The UDF module 1922 may optionally include a unity gain
module 1990A between capacitors 1952 and 1956. The unity gain
module 1990A operates as a current source to enable capacitor 1956
to charge without draining the charge from capacitor 1952. For a
similar reason, the UDF module 1922 may include other unity gain
modules 1990B-1990G. It should be understood that, for many
embodiments and applications of the invention, these unity gain
modules 1990A-1990G are optional. The structure and operation of
the unity gain modules 1990 will be apparent to persons skilled in
the relevant art(s).
[0184] Also at the rising edge of .phi..sub.2 at time t-1, a switch
1962 in the first delay module 1928 closes, allowing a capacitor
1964 to charge to the level of the capacitor 1960. Accordingly, the
capacitor 1964 charges to VO.sub.t-1, such that node 1908 is at
VO.sub.t-1. This is indicated by cell 1814 in Table 1802.
[0185] Also at the rising edge of .phi..sub.2 at time t-1, a switch
1970 in the second delay module 1930 closes, allowing a capacitor
1972 to charge to a value stored in a capacitor 1968. At this time,
however, the value in capacitor 1968 is undefined, so the value in
capacitor 1972 is undefined. This is indicated by cell 1815 in
table 1802.
[0186] At time t, at the rising edge of .phi..sub.1 the switch 1950
in the down-convert and delay module 1924 closes. This allows the
capacitor 1952 to charge to VI.sub.t, such that node 1902 is at
VI.sub.t. This is indicated in cell 1816 of Table 1802.
[0187] Also at the rising edge of .phi..sub.1 at time t, the switch
1958 in the first delay module 1928 closes, thereby allowing the
capacitor 1960 to charge to VO.sub.t. Accordingly, node 1906 is at
VO.sub.t. This is indicated in cell 1820 in Table 1802.
[0188] Further at the rising edge of . .phi..sub.1 at time t, the
switch 1966 in the second delay module 1930 closes, allowing a
capacitor 1968 to charge to the level of the capacitor 1964.
Therefore, the capacitor 1968 charges to VO.sub.t-1., such that
node 1910 is at VO.sub.t-1. This is indicated by cell 1824 in Table
1802.
[0189] At the rising edge of .phi..sub.2 at time t, the switch 1954
in the down-convert and delay module 1924 closes, allowing the
capacitor 1956 to charge to the level of the capacitor 1952.
Accordingly, the capacitor 1956 charges to VI.sub.t, such that node
1904 is at VI.sub.t. This is indicated by cell 1828 in Table
1802.
[0190] Also at the rising edge of .phi..sub.2 at time t, the switch
1962 in the first delay module 1928 closes, allowing the capacitor
1964 to charge to the level in the capacitor 1960. Therefore, the
capacitor 1964 charges to VO.sub.t, such that node 1908 is at
VO.sub.t. This is indicated by cell 1832 in Table 1802.
[0191] Further at the rising edge of .phi..sub.2 at time t, the
switch 1970 in the second delay module 1930 closes, allowing the
capacitor 1972 in the second delay module 1930 to charge to the
level of the capacitor 1968 in the second delay module 1930.
Therefore, the capacitor 1972 charges to VO.sub.t-1, such that node
1912 is at VO.sub.t-1. This is indicated in cell 1836 of FIG.
18.
[0192] At time t+1, at the rising edge of .phi..sub.1, the switch
1950 in the down-convert and delay module 1924 closes, allowing the
capacitor 1952 to charge to VI.sub.t-1. Therefore, node 1902 is at
VI.sub.t+1, as indicated by cell 1838 of Table 1802.
[0193] Also at the rising edge of .phi..sub.1 at time t+1, the
switch 1958 in the first delay module 1928 closes, allowing the
capacitor 1960 to charge to VO.sub.t+1. Accordingly, node 1906 is
at VO.sub.t+1, as indicated by cell 1842 in Table 1802.
[0194] Further at the rising edge of .phi..sub.1 at time t+1, the
switch 1966 in the second delay module 1930 closes, allowing the
capacitor 1968 to charge to the level of the capacitor 1964.
Accordingly, the capacitor 1968 charges to VO.sub.t, as indicated
by cell 1846 of Table 1802.
[0195] In the example of FIG. 19, the first scaling module 1932
scales the value at node 1908 (i.e., the output of the first delay
module 1928) by a scaling factor of -0.1. Accordingly, the value
present at node 1914 at time t+1 is -0.1*VO.sub.t. Similarly, the
second scaling module 1934 scales the value present at node 1912
(i.e., the output of the second scaling module 1930) by a scaling
factor of -0.8. Accordingly, the value present at node 1916 is
-0.8*VO.sub.t-1 at time t+1.
[0196] At time t+1, the values at the inputs of the summer 1926
are: VI.sub.t at node 1904, -0.1*VO.sub.t at node 1914, and
-0.8*VO.sub.t-1 at node 1916 (in the example of FIG. 19, the values
at nodes 1914 and 1916 are summed by a second summer 1925, and this
sum is presented to the summer 1926). Accordingly, at time t+1, the
summer generates a signal equal to
VI.sub.t-0.1*VO.sub.t-0.8*VO.sub.t-1.
[0197] At the rising edge of .phi..sub.1 at time t+1, a switch 1991
in the output sample and hold module 1936 closes, thereby allowing
a capacitor 1992 to charge to VO.sub.t-1. Accordingly, the
capacitor 1992 charges to VO.sub.t+1 which is equal to the sum
generated by the adder 1926. As just noted, this value is equal to:
VI.sub.t-0.1*VO.sub.t-0.8*VO.sub.t-1. This is indicated in cell
1850 of Table 1802. This value is presented to the optional output
smoothing module 1938, which smoothes the signal to thereby
generate the instance of the output signal VO.sub.t+1. It is
apparent from inspection that this value of VO.sub.t+1 is
consistent with the band pass filter transfer function of EQ.
1.
[0198] Further details of unified down-conversion and filtering as
described in this section are presented in pending U.S. application
"Integrated Frequency Translation And Selectivity," Ser. No.
09/175,966, filed Oct. 21, 1998, incorporated herein by reference
in its entirety.
Example Application Embodiments of the Invention
[0199] As noted above, the UFT module of the present invention is a
very powerful and flexible device. Its flexibility is illustrated,
in part, by the wide range of applications in which it can be used.
Its power is illustrated, in part, by the usefulness and
performance of such applications.
[0200] Example applications of the UFT module were described above.
In particular, frequency down-conversion, frequency up-conversion,
enhanced signal reception, and unified down-conversion and
filtering applications of the UFT module were summarized above, and
are further described below. These applications of the UFT module
are discussed herein for illustrative purposes. The invention is
not limited to these example applications. Additional applications
of the UFT module will be apparent to persons skilled in the
relevant art(s), based on the teachings contained herein.
[0201] For example, the present invention can be used in
applications that involve frequency down-conversion. This is shown
in FIG. 1C, for example, where an example UFT module 115 is used in
a down-conversion module 114. In this capacity, the UFT module 115
frequency down-converts an input signal to an output signal. This
is also shown in FIG. 7, for example, where an example UFT module
706 is part of a down-conversion module 704, which is part of a
receiver 702.
[0202] The present invention can be used in applications that
involve frequency up-conversion. This is shown in FIG. 1D, for
example, where an example UFT module 117 is used in a frequency
up-conversion module 116. In this capacity, the UFT module 117
frequency up-converts an input signal to an output signal. This is
also shown in FIG. 8, for example, where an example UFT module 806
is part of up-conversion module 804, which is part of a transmitter
802.
[0203] The present invention can be used in environments having one
or more transmitters 902 and one or more receivers 906, as
illustrated in FIG. 9. In such environments, one or more of the
transmitters 902 may be implemented using a UFT module, as shown
for example in FIG. 8. Also, one or more of the receivers 906 may
be implemented using a UFT module, as shown for example in FIG.
7.
[0204] The invention can be used to implement a transceiver. An
example transceiver 1002 is illustrated in FIG. 10. The transceiver
1002 includes a transmitter 1004 and a receiver 1008. Either the
transmitter 1004 or the receiver 1008 can be implemented using a
UFT module. Alternatively, the transmitter 1004 can be implemented
using a UFT module 1006, and the receiver 1008 can be implemented
using a UFT module 1010. This embodiment is shown in FIG. 10.
[0205] Another transceiver embodiment according to the invention is
shown in FIG. 11. In this transceiver 1102, the transmitter 1104
and the receiver 1108 are implemented using a single UFT module
1106. In other words, the transmitter 1104 and the receiver 1108
share a LIFT module 1106.
[0206] As described elsewhere in this application, the invention is
directed to methods and systems for enhanced signal reception
(ESR). Various ESR embodiments include an ESR module (transmit) in
a transmitter 1202, and an ESR module (receive) in a receiver 1210.
An example ESR embodiment configured in this manner is illustrated
in FIG. 12.
[0207] The ESR module (transmit) 1204 includes a frequency
up-conversion module 1206. Some embodiments of this frequency
up-conversion module 1206 may be implemented using a UFT module,
such as that shown in FIG. 1D.
[0208] The ESR module (receive) 1212 includes a frequency
down-conversion module 1214. Some embodiments of this frequency
down-conversion module 1214 may be implemented using a UFT module,
such as that shown in FIG. 1C.
[0209] As described elsewhere in this application, the invention is
directed to methods and systems for unified down-conversion and
filtering (UDF). An example unified down-conversion and filtering
module 1302 is illustrated in FIG. 13. The unified down-conversion
and filtering module 1302 includes a frequency down-conversion
module 1304 and a filtering module 1306. According to the
invention, the frequency down-conversion module 1304 and the
filtering module 1306 are implemented using a UFT module 1308, as
indicated in FIG. 13.
[0210] Unified down-conversion and filtering according to the
invention is useful in applications involving filtering and/or
frequency down-conversion. This is depicted, for example, in FIGS.
15A-15F. FIGS. 15A-15C indicate that unified down-conversion and
filtering according to the invention is useful in applications
where filtering precedes, follows, or both precedes and follows
frequency down-conversion. FIG. 15D indicates that a unified
down-conversion and filtering module 1524 according to the
invention can be utilized as a filter 1522 (i.e., where the extent
of frequency down-conversion by the down-converter in the unified
down-conversion and filtering module 1524 is minimized). FIG. 15E
indicates that a unified down-conversion and filtering module 1528
according to the invention can be utilized as a down-converter 1526
(i.e., where the filter in the unified down-conversion and
filtering module 1528 passes substantially all frequencies). FIG.
15F illustrates that the unified down-conversion and filtering
module 1532 can be used as an amplifier. It is noted that one or
more UDF modules can be used in applications that involve at least
one or more of filtering, frequency translation, and
amplification.
[0211] For example, receivers, which typically perform filtering,
down-conversion, and filtering operations, can be implemented using
one or more unified down-conversion and filtering modules. This is
illustrated, for example, in FIG. 14.
[0212] The methods and systems of unified down-conversion and
filtering of the invention have many other applications. For
example, as discussed herein, the enhanced signal reception (ESR)
module (receive) operates to down-convert a signal containing a
plurality of spectrums. The ESR module (receive) also operates to
isolate the spectrums in the down-converted signal, where such
isolation is implemented via filtering in some embodiments.
According to embodiments of the invention, the ESR module (receive)
is implemented using one or more unified down-conversion and
filtering (UDF) modules. This is illustrated, for example, in FIG.
16. In the example of FIG. 16, one or more of the UDF modules 1610,
1612, 1614 operates to down-convert a received signal. The UDF
modules 1610, 1612, 1614 also operate to filter the down-converted
signal so as to isolate the spectrum(s) contained therein. As noted
above, the UDF modules 1610, 1612, 1614 are implemented using the
universal frequency translation (UFT) modules of the invention.
[0213] The invention is not limited to the applications of the UFT
module described above. For example, and without limitation,
subsets of the applications (methods and/or structures) described
herein (and others that would be apparent to persons skilled in the
relevant art(s) based on the herein teachings) can be associated to
form useful combinations.
[0214] For example, transmitters and receivers are two applications
of the UFT module. FIG. 10 illustrates a transceiver 1002 that is
formed by combining these two applications of the UFT module, i.e.,
by combining a transmitter 1004 with a receiver 1008.
[0215] Also, ESR (enhanced signal reception) and unified
down-conversion and filtering are two other applications of the UFT
module. FIG. 16 illustrates an example where ESR and unified
down-conversion and filtering are combined to form a modified
enhanced signal reception system.
[0216] The invention is not limited to the example applications of
the UFT module discussed herein. Also, the invention is not limited
to the example combinations of applications of the UFT module
discussed herein. These examples were provided for illustrative
purposes only, and are not limiting. Other applications and
combinations of such applications will be apparent to persons
skilled in the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained
herein. Such applications and combinations include, for example and
without limitation, applications/combinations comprising and/or
involving one or more of: (1) frequency translation; (2) frequency
down-conversion; (3) frequency up-conversion; (4) receiving; (5)
transmitting; (6) filtering; and/or (7) signal transmission and
reception in environments containing potentially jamming
signals.
[0217] Additional example applications are described below.
Telephones
[0218] The present invention is directed to telephones that employ
the UFT module for performing down-conversion and/or up conversion
operations. According to embodiments of the invention, telephones
include a receiver that uses a UFT module for frequency
down-conversion (see, for example, FIG. 7), and/or a transmitter
that uses a UFT module for frequency up-conversion (see, for
example, FIG. 8). Alternatively, telephone embodiments of the
invention employ a transceiver that utilizes one or more UFT
modules for performing frequency down-conversion and/or
up-conversion operations, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 10 and
11.
[0219] Any type of telephone falls within the scope and spirit of
the present invention, including but not limited to cordless phones
(wherein UFT modules can be used in both the base unit and the
handset to communicate therebetween, and in the base unit to
communicate with the telephone company via wired or wireless
service), cellular phones, satellite phones, etc.
[0220] FIG. 25 illustrates an example environment 2502 illustrating
cellular phones and satellite phones according to embodiments of
the invention. Cellular phones 2504, 2508, 2512 and 2516 each
include a transceiver 2506, 2510, 2514, and 2518, respectively.
Transceivers 2506, 2510, 2514, and 2518 enable their respective
cellular phones to communicate via a wireless communication medium
with base stations 2520, 2524. According to the invention, the
transceivers 2506, 2510, 2514, and 2518 are implemented using one
or more UFT modules. FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate example
transceivers 1002 and 1102 operable for use with the cellular
phones of the present invention. Alternatively, one or more of
cellular telephones 2504, 2508, 2512, and 2516 may employ
transmitter modules and receiver modules. Either or both of such
transmitter modules and receiver modules may be implemented using
UFT modules as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, for example.
[0221] FIG. 25 also illustrates a satellite telephone 2590 that
communicates via satellites, such as satellite 2526. The satellite
telephone 2590 includes a transceiver 2592, which is preferably
implemented using one or more UFT modules, such as shown in FIGS.
10 and 11, for example. Alternatively, the satellite phone 2590 may
include a receiver module and a transmitter module, wherein either
or both of the receiver module and the transmitter module is
implemented using a UFT module, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 7
and 8.
[0222] FIG. 25 also illustrates a cordless phone 2590 having a
handset 2592 and a base station 2596. The handset 2592 and the base
station 2596 include transceivers 2594, 2598 for communicating with
each other preferably over a wireless link. Transceivers 2594, 2598
are preferably implemented using one or more UFT modules, such as
shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, for example. Alternatively, transceivers
2594, 2598 each may be replaced by a receiver module and a
transmitter module, wherein either or both of the receiver module
and the transmitter module is implemented using a UFT module, as
shown, for example, in FIGS. 7 and 8. In embodiments, the base
station 2596 of the cordless phone 2590 may communicate with the
base station 2520 via transceivers 2598, 2521, or using other
communication modules.
Base Stations
[0223] The invention is directed to communication base stations
that generally represent interfaces between telephones and
telephone networks. Example base stations 2520, 2524 according to
the invention are illustrated in FIG. 25. The invention is directed
to other types of base stations, such as but not limited to base
stations in cordless phones (see, for example, base station 2596 in
cordless phone 2590 in FIG. 25). The base stations 2520, 2524, 2596
each include a transceiver 2521, 2525, 2598. According to
embodiments of the invention, the transceivers 2521, 2525, 2598 are
each implemented using one or more UFT modules (see, for example,
FIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, the base stations 2520, 2524, 2596
can be implemented using receiver modules and transmitter modules,
wherein either or both of the receiver and transmitter modules are
implemented using UFT modules (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and
8).
[0224] As illustrated in FIG. 25, base stations 2520, 2524, 2596
operate to connect telephones together via telephone networks 2522,
satellites 2526, or other communication mediums, such as but not
limited to data networks (such as the Internet). Also, the base
stations 2520, 2524, enable telephones (such as cellular telephones
2508, 2512) to communicate with each other via a base station 2520
and not through a network or other intermediate communication
medium. This is illustrated, for example, by dotted data flow line
2528.
[0225] The invention is directed to all types of base stations,
such as macro base stations (operating in networks that are
relatively large), micro base stations (operating in networks that
are relatively small), satellite base stations (operating with
satellites), cellular base stations (operating in a cellular
telephone networks), data communication base stations (operating as
gateways to computer networks), etc.
Positioning
[0226] The invention is directed to positioning devices that enable
the determination of the location of an object.
[0227] FIG. 26 illustrates an example positioning unit 2608
according to an embodiment of the invention. The positioning unit
2608 includes a receiver 2610 for receiving positioning information
from satellites, such as satellites 2604, 2606. Such positioning
information is processed in a well known manner by a positioning
module 2614 to determine the location of the positioning unit 2608.
Preferably, the receiver 2610 is implemented using a UFT module for
performing frequency down-conversion operations (see, for example,
FIG. 7).
[0228] The positioning unit 2608 may include an optional
transmitter 2612 for transmitting commands and/or other information
to satellites 2604, 2606, or to other destinations. In an
embodiment, the transmitter 2612 is implemented using a UFT module
for performing frequency up-conversion operations (see, for
example, FIG. 8).
[0229] In an embodiment, the receiver 2610 and the optional
transmitter 2612 are replaced in the positioning unit 2608 by a
transceiver which includes one or more UFT modules (see, for
example, FIGS. 10 and 11).
[0230] The invention is directed to all types of positioning
systems, such as but not limited to global positioning systems
(GPS), differential GPS, local GPS, etc.
Data Communication
[0231] The invention is directed to data communication among data
processing devices. For example, and without limitation, the
invention is directed to computer networks (such as, for example,
local area networks and wide area networks), modems, etc.
[0232] FIG. 27 illustrates an example environment 2702 wherein
computers 2704, 2712, and 2726 are communicating with one another
via a computer network 2734. In the example of FIG. 27, computer
2704 is communicating with the network 2734 via a wired link,
whereas computers 2712 and 2726 are communicating with the network
2734 via wireless links.
[0233] In the teachings contained herein, for illustrative
purposes, a link may be designated as being a wired link or a
wireless link. Such designations are for example purposes only, and
are not limiting. A link designated as being wireless may
alternatively be wired. Similarly, a link designated as being wired
may alternatively be wireless. This is applicable throughout the
entire application.
[0234] The computers 2704, 2712 and 2726 each include an interface
2706, 2714, and 2728, respectively, for communicating with the
network 2734. The interfaces 2706, 2714, and 2728 include
transmitters 2708, 2716, and 2730 respectively. Also, the
interfaces 2706, 2714 and 2728 include receivers 2710, 2718, and
2732 respectively. In embodiments of the invention, the
transmitters 2708, 2716 and 2730 are implemented using UFT modules
for performing frequency up-conversion operations (see, for
example, FIG. 8). In embodiments, the receivers 2710, 2718 and 2732
are implemented using UFT modules for performing frequency
down-conversion operations (see, for example, FIG. 7).
[0235] As noted above, the computers 2712 and 2726 interact with
the network 2734 via wireless links. In embodiments of the
invention, the interfaces 2714, 2728 in computers 2712, 2726
represent modems.
[0236] In embodiments, the network 2734 includes an interface or
modem 2720 for communicating with the modems 2714, 2728 in the
computers 2712, 2726. In embodiments, the interface 2720 includes a
transmitter 2722, and a receiver 2724. Either or both of the
transmitter 2722, and the receiver 2724 are implemented using UFT
modules for performing frequency translation operations (see, for
example, FIGS. 7 and 8).
[0237] In alternative embodiments, one or more of the interfaces
2706, 2714, 2720, and 2728 are implemented using transceivers that
employ one or more UFT modules for performing frequency translation
operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11).
[0238] FIG. 28 illustrates another example data communication
embodiment 2802. Each of a plurality of computers 2804, 2812, 2814
and 2816 includes an interface, such as an interface 2806 shown in
the computer 2804. It should be understood that the other computers
2812, 2814, 2816 also include an interface such as an interface
2806. The computers 2804, 2812, 2814 and 2816 communicate with each
other via interfaces 2806 and wireless or wired links, thereby
collectively representing a data communication network.
[0239] The interfaces 2806 may represent any computer interface or
port, such as but not limited to a high speed internal interface, a
wireless serial port, a wireless PS2 port, a wireless USB port,
etc.
[0240] The interface 2806 includes a transmitter 2808 and a
receiver 2810. In embodiments of the invention, either or both of
the transmitter 2808 and the receiver 2810 are implemented using
UFT modules for frequency up-conversion and down-conversion (see,
for example, FIGS. 7 and 8). Alternatively, the interfaces 2806 can
be implemented using a transceiver having one or more UFT modules
for performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 10 and 11).
Pagers
[0241] The invention is directed to pagers that employ UFT modules
for performing frequency translation operations.
[0242] FIG. 29 illustrates an example pager 2902 according to an
embodiment of the invention. Pager 2902 includes a receiver 2906
for receiving paging messages. In embodiments of the invention, the
receiver 2906 is implemented using a UFT module for performing
frequency down-conversion operations (see, for example, FIG.
7).
[0243] The pager 2902 may also include a transmitter 2908 for
sending pages, responses to pages, or other messages. In
embodiments of the invention, the transmitter 2908 employs a UFT
module for performing up-conversion operations (see, for example,
FIG. 8).
[0244] In alternative embodiments of the invention, the receiver
2906 and the transmitter 2908 are replaced by a transceiver that
employs one or more UFT modules for performing frequency
translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11).
[0245] The pager 2902 also includes a display 2904 for displaying
paging messages. Alternatively, or additionally, the pager 2902
includes other mechanisms for indicating the receipt of a page such
as an audio mechanism that audibly indicates the receipt of a page,
or a vibration mechanism that causes the pager 2902 to vibrate when
a page is received.
[0246] The invention is directed to all types of pagers, such as
and without limitation, one way pagers, two way pagers, etc. FIG.
30 illustrates a one way pager 3004 that includes a receiver 3006.
The one way pager 3004 is capable of only receiving pages. In the
scenario of FIG. 30, the one way pager 3004 receives a page 3005
from an entity which issues pages 3008. The one way pager 3004
includes a receiver 3006 that is implemented using a UFT module for
performing frequency down-conversion operations (see, for example
FIG. 7).
[0247] FIG. 30 also illustrates a two way pager 3010. The two way
pager 3010 is capable of receiving paging messages and of
transmitting pages, responses to paging messages, and/or other
messages. The two way pager 3010 includes a receiver 3012 for
receiving messages, and a transmitter 3014 for transmitting
messages. One or both of the receiver 3012 and the transmitter 3014
may be implemented using UFT modules for performing frequency
translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).
Alternatively, the receiver 3010 and the transmitter 3014 can be
replaced by a transceiver that employs one or more UFT modules for
performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 10 and 11).
Security
[0248] The invention is directed to security systems having
components which are implemented using UFT modules for performing
frequency translation operations. FIG. 31 illustrates an example
security system 3102 which will be used to describe this aspect of
the invention.
[0249] The security system 3102 includes sensors which sense
potential intrusion/hazard events, such as the opening of a window,
the opening of a door, the breakage of glass, motion, the
application of pressure on floors, the disruption of laser beams,
fire, smoke, carbon monoxide, etc. Upon detecting an
intrusion/hazard event, the sensors transmit an intrusion/hazard
event message to a monitor panel 3116 that includes a monitor and
alarm module 3120. The monitor and alarm module 3120 processes
intrusion/hazard event messages in a well known manner. Such
processing may include, for example, sending messages via a wired
link 3134 or a wireless link 3136 to a monitoring center 3130,
which may in turn alert appropriate authorities 3132 (such as the
police, the fire department, an ambulance service, etc.).
[0250] FIG. 31 illustrates a one way sensor 3109 that is
positioned, for example, to detect the opening of a door 3106. The
one way sensor 3109 is not limited to this application, as would be
apparent to persons skilled in the relevant arts. The one way
sensor 3109 includes contacts 3108 and 3110 that are positioned on
the door 3106 and the frame 3104 of the door 3106. When the
contacts 3108 and 3110 are displaced from one another, indicating
the opening of the door 3106, a transmitter 3112 contained in the
contact 3110 transmits an intrusion/hazard event message 3114 to
the monitor panel 3116.
[0251] In an embodiment, the one way sensor 3109 also transmits
status messages to the monitor panel 3116. Preferably, these status
messages are transmitted during a time period that is assigned to
the one way sensor 3109. The status messages include information
that indicates the status of the one way sensor 3109, such as if
the sensor 3109 is operating within normal parameters, or if the
sensor 3109 is damaged in some way. The monitor panel 3116, upon
receiving the status messages, takes appropriate action. For
example, if a status message indicates that the sensor 3109 is
damaged, then the monitor panel 3116 may display a message to this
effect, and/or may transmit a call for service. If the monitor
panel 3116 does not receive a status message from the one way
sensor 3109 in the time period assigned to the one way sensor 3109,
then the monitor panel 3116 may issue an alarm indicating a
potential intrusion or other breach in perimeter security.
[0252] Preferably, the transmitter 3112 is implemented using a UFT
module to perform frequency up-conversion operations (see, for
example, FIG. 8).
[0253] The one way sensor 3109 is capable of only transmitting. The
invention is also directed to two way sensors, an example of which
is shown as 3125. The two way sensor 3125 is shown in FIG. 31 as
being positioned to detect the opening of a door 3138. The two way
sensor 3125 is not limited to this application, as would be
apparent to persons skilled in the relevant arts.
[0254] The two way sensor 3125 includes contacts 3124 and 3126 for
detecting the opening of the door 3138. Upon detection of the
opening of the door 3138, a transceiver 3128 in contact 3126 sends
an intrusion/hazard event message to the monitor panel 3116.
Preferably, the transceiver 3128 is implemented using one or more
UFT modules for performing frequency translation operations (see,
for example, FIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, the two way sensor
3125 may employ a receiver and a transmitter, wherein one or both
of the receiver and transmitter includes UFT modules for performing
frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and
8).
[0255] The two way sensor 3125 is capable of both receiving and
transmitting messages. Specifically, as just discussed, the
transceiver 3128 in the two way sensor 3125 sends intrusion/hazard
event messages to the monitor panel 3116. Additionally, the two way
sensor 3125 may receive commands or other messages (such as polls)
from the monitor panel 3116 via the transceiver 3128.
[0256] In an embodiment, the two way sensor 3125 also transmits
status messages to the monitor panel 3116. In an embodiment, these
status messages are transmitted during a time period that is
assigned to the two way sensor 3125. The nature of these status
message is described above. In an alternative embodiment, the
monitor panel 3116 polls for status messages. When the two way
sensor 3125 receives an appropriate polling message, it transmits
its status message to the monitor panel 3116. If the monitor panel
3116 does not receive a status message in response to a polling
message, then it may issue an alarm indicating a potential
intrusion or other breach in perimeter security.
[0257] The monitor panel 3116 includes a transceiver 3118 for
communicating with sensors, such as sensors 3109 and 3125, and for
also communicating with external entities, such as monitoring
center 3130, appropriate authorities 3132, etc. The transceiver
3118 is preferably implemented using one or more UFT modules for
performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, the transceiver 3118 may be
replaced by a receiver and a transmitter, wherein one or both of
the receiver and transmitter is implemented using UFT modules for
performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 7 and 8).
[0258] In an embodiment, the monitor panel 3116 communicates with
the monitoring center 3130 via a wired telephone line 3134.
However, communication over the telephone line 3134 may not always
be possible. For example, at times, the telephone line 3134 may be
inoperative due to natural events, failure, maintenance, sabotage,
etc. Accordingly, embodiments of the invention include a back-up
communication mechanism. For example, in FIG. 31, the monitor panel
3116 includes a cellular phone backup system for communication with
the monitoring center 3130. This wireless link between the monitor
panel 3116 and the monitoring center 3130 is represented by dotted
line 3136. The transceiver 3118 (or perhaps another transceiver
contained in the monitoring panel 3116 or located proximate
thereto) communicates with the monitor center 3130 via the wireless
link 3136. As noted, the transceiver 3118 is preferably implemented
using one or more UFT modules for performing frequency translation
operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11).
Repeaters
[0259] The invention is directed to communication repeaters which,
generally, receive a signal, optionally amplify the signal, and
then transmit the amplified signal at the same or different
frequency or frequencies. A repeater is often used in combination
with one or more other repeaters to transmit a signal from a first
point to a second point, where the first and second points are
widely spaced from one another and/or are not in line of sight with
one another.
[0260] This is illustrated, for example, in FIG. 32, where a signal
is being transmitted from a station 3204 to another station 3218,
where stations 3204, 3218 are separated by a mountain. Signals from
station 3204 are sent to station 3218 via repeaters 3206, 3208, and
3210. Similarly, signals from station 3218 are sent to station 3204
via repeaters 3206, 3208, and 3210.
[0261] Each of the repeaters 3206, 3208, 3210 includes a
transceiver 3212, 3214, 3216, respectively. In embodiments of the
invention, the transceivers 3212, 3214, 3216 are implemented using
UFT modules for performing frequency translation operations (see,
for example, FIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, the transceivers
3212, 3214, 3216 may be replaced by receivers and transmitters,
wherein the receivers and transmitters are implemented using UFT
modules for performing frequency translation operations (see, for
example, FIGS. 7 and 8).
[0262] The invention includes all types of repeaters. For example,
the repeater scenario described above represents a long distance or
long range use of repeaters (for example, macro use). The invention
is also applicable to short distance use of repeaters (for example,
micro use). An example of this is shown in FIG. 32, where a
repeater 3252 having a transceiver 3254 is positioned in a building
or home 3250. The repeater 3252 relays signals from a cell phone
3256 or other communication device (such as a computer with a
modem, a television with an input for programming, a security
system, a home control system, etc.) to a base station 3218 and/or
another repeater 3210. In the example scenario of FIG. 32, the
combination of the cell phone 3256 and the repeater 3252 is
generally similar to a cordless telephone. In embodiments of the
invention, the transceivers 3254, 3258 are implemented using UFT
modules for performing frequency translation operations (see, for
example, FIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, the transceivers 3254,
3258 may be replaced by receivers and transmitters, wherein the
receivers and transmitters are implemented using UFT modules for
performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 7 and 8).
Mobile Radios
[0263] The invention is directed to mobile radios that use UFT
modules for performing frequency translation operations. The
invention is applicable to all types of mobile radios operating in
any and all bands for any and all services, such as but not limited
to walkie-talkies, citizen band, business, ISM (Industrial
Scientific Medical), amateur radio, weather band, etc. See FIGS.
42A-42D for example frequency bands operable with the present
invention (the invention is not limited to these bands).
[0264] FIG. 33 illustrates an example scenario 3302 where a first
mobile radio 3304 is communicating with a second mobile radio 3306.
Each of the mobile radios 3304, 3306 includes a transmitter 3308,
3312 and a receiver 3310, 3314, respectively. The transmitter 3308,
3312, and/or the receivers 3310, 3314 are implemented using UFT
modules for performing frequency translation operations (see, for
example, FIGS. 7 and 8). Alternatively, the transmitters 3308, 3312
and the receivers 3310, 3314 can be replaced by transceivers which
utilize one or more UFT modules for performing frequency
translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11).
[0265] The invention is also directed to receive-only radios, such
as the radio 4402 shown in FIG. 44. The radio 4402 includes a
receiver 4404 to receive broadcasts. The radio 4402 also includes a
speaker 4406 and other well known radio modules 4408. The radio
4402 may work in any band, such as but not limited to AM, FM,
weather band, etc. See FIGS. 42A-42D for an example of the bands.
The receiver 4404 is preferably implemented using a UFT module
(see, for example, FIG. 7).
Satellite Up/Down Links
[0266] The invention is directed to systems and methods for
communicating via satellites. This includes, for example, direct
satellite systems (DSS), direct broadcast satellite (DBS), ultra
wideband public/private services, etc.
[0267] FIG. 34 illustrates an example environment 3402 where
content transmitted from a content provider 3420 is received by a
private home 3404 via a satellite 3416. A satellite unit 3408 is
located in the home 3404. The satellite unit 3408 includes a
receiver 3410 for receiving signals from the satellite 3416 and a
transmitter 3412 for transmitting signals to the satellite
3416.
[0268] In operation, the content provider 3420 transmits content to
the satellite 3416, which then broadcasts that content. The content
is received at the home 3404 by an antenna or satellite dish 3414.
The received signals are provided to the receiver 3410 of the
satellite unit 3408, which then down-converts and demodulates, as
necessary, the signal. The data is then provided to a monitor 3406
for presentation to the user. The monitor 3406 may be any device
capable of receiving and displaying the content from the content
provider 3420, such as a TV, a computer monitor, etc. In
embodiments of the invention, the receiver 3410 and/or the
transmitter 3412 are implemented using UFT modules for performing
frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).
In other embodiments, the receiver 3410 and the transmitter 3412
are replaced by a transceiver which employs one or more UFT modules
for performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 10 and 11).
[0269] The satellite unit 3408 can be used to send and receive
large amounts of data via ultra wide band satellite channels. For
example, in addition to receiving content from the content
provider, is possible to use the satellite unit 3408 to exchange
data with other locations 3418 via the satellite links provided by
satellites (such as satellite 3416).
Command and Control
[0270] The invention is directed to command and control
applications. Example command and control applications are
described below for illustrative purposes. The invention is not
limited to these examples.
PC Peripherals
[0271] The present invention is directed to computer peripherals
that communicate with a computer over a wireless communication
medium. FIG. 35 illustrates an example computer 3502 which includes
a number of peripherals such as but not limited to a monitor 3506,
a keyboard 3510, a mouse 3514, a storage device 3518, and an
interface/port 3522. It should be understood that the peripherals
shown in FIG. 35 are presented for illustrative purposes only, and
are not limiting. The invention is directed to all devices that may
interact with a computer.
[0272] The peripherals shown in FIG. 35 interact with a computer
3502 via a wireless communication medium. The computer 3502
includes one or more transceivers 3504 for communicating with
peripherals. Preferably, the transceivers 3504 are implemented
using UFT modules for performing frequency translation operations
(see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, the transceiver
3504 in the computer 3502 may be replaced by receivers and
transmitters, wherein any of the receivers and transmitters are
implemented by using UFT modules for performing frequency
translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).
[0273] Each of the peripherals includes a transceiver for
communicating with the computer 3502. In embodiments of the
invention, the transceivers are implemented using UFT modules for
performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 10 and 11). In other embodiments, the transceivers are
replaced by receivers and transmitters which are implemented by UFT
modules for performing frequency translation operations (see, for
example, FIGS. 7 and 8).
[0274] The computer 3502 may send a signal to the peripherals that
indicates that it is receiving signals from the peripherals. The
peripherals could then provide an indication that a link with the
computer 3502 is established (such as, for example, turning a green
light on).
[0275] In some embodiments, some peripherals may be transmit-only,
in which case they would include a transmitter instead of a
transceiver. Some peripherals which may be transmit only include,
for example, the keyboard 3510, the mouse 3514, and/or the monitor
3506. Preferably, the transmitter is implemented using a UFT module
for performing frequency up-conversion operations (see, for
example, FIG. 8).
Building/Home Functions
[0276] The invention is directed to devices for controlling home
functions. For example, and without limitation, the invention is
directed to controlling thermostats, meter reading, smart controls,
including C-Bus and X-10, garage door openers, intercoms, video
rabbits, audio rabbits, etc. These examples are provided for
purposes of illustration, and not limitation. The invention
includes other home functions, appliances, and devices, as will be
apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on the
teachings contained herein.
[0277] FIG. 36 illustrates an example home control unit 3604. The
home control unit 3604 includes one or more transceivers 3606 for
interacting with remote devices. In embodiments of the invention,
the transceivers 3606 are implemented using UFT modules for
performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 10 and 11). In other embodiments, the transceivers 3606 are
replaced by receivers and transmitters that employ UFT modules for
performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 7 and 8). In some embodiments, the home control unit 3604 can
be transmit only, in which case the transceiver 3606 is replaced by
a transmitter which is preferably implemented using a UFT
module.
[0278] The home control unit 3604 interacts with remote devices for
remotely accessing, controlling, and otherwise interacting with
home functional devices. For example, the home control unit 3604
can be used to control appliances 3608 such as, but not limited to,
lamps, televisions, computers, video recorders, audio recorders,
answering machines, etc. The appliances 3608 are coupled to one or
more interfaces 3610. The interfaces 3610 each includes a
transceiver 3612 for communicating with the home control 3604. The
transceiver 3612 includes one or more UFT modules for performing
frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and
11). Alternatively, the interfaces 3610 each includes a receiver
and a transmitter, either or both of which include UFT modules for
performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 7 and 8).
[0279] The home control unit 3604 can also remotely access and
control other home devices, such as a thermostat 3618 and a garage
door opener 3614. Such devices which interact with the home control
unit 3604 include transceivers, such as transceiver 3620 in the
thermostat 3618, and transceiver 3616 in the garage opener 3614.
The transceivers 3620, 3616 include UFT modules for performing
frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 10 and
11). Alternatively, the transceivers 3616, 3620 can be replaced by
receivers and transmitters for performing translation operations
(see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).
[0280] The invention is also directed to the control of home
electronic devices, such as but not limited to televisions, VCRs,
stereos, CD players, amplifiers, tuners, computers, video games,
etc. For example, FIG. 36 illustrates a television 3650 and a VCR
3654 having receivers 3652, 3656 for receiving control signals from
remote control(s) 3658, where each of the remote control(s) 3658
includes a transmitter 3660. The receivers 3652, 3656 are
preferably implemented using UFT modules (see, for example, FIG.
7), and the transmitter 3660 is preferably implemented using a UFT
module (see, for example, FIG. 8).
[0281] In some cases, it may be necessary to install an adapter
3666 to enable a device to operate with remote control(s) 3658.
Consider a stereo 3662 having an infrared receiver 3664 to receive
infrared control signals. Depending on their implementation, some
embodiments of the remote control(s) 3658 may not transmit signals
that can be accurately received by the infrared receiver 3664. In
such cases, it is possible to locate or affix a receiver 3668
(preferably implemented using a UFT module) and an adapter 3666 to
the stereo 3662. The receiver 3668 operates to receive control
signals from the remote control(s) 3658. The adapter 3666 converts
the received signals to signals that can be received by the
infrared receiver 3664.
[0282] The invention can also be used to enable the remote access
to home control components by external entities. For example, FIG.
37 illustrates a scenario 3702 where a utility company 3704
remotely accesses a utility meter 3710 that records the amount of
utilities used in the home 3708. The utility company 3704 may
represent, for example, a service vehicle or a site or office. The
utility meter 3710 and the utility company 3704 include
transceivers 3712, 3706, respectively, for communicating with each
other. Preferably, the transceivers 3706, 3712 utilize UFT modules
for performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, the transceivers 3706, 3712 are
replaced by receivers and transmitters, wherein the receivers
and/or transmitters are implemented using UFT modules for
performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 7 and 8).
[0283] The invention is also directed to other home devices. For
example, and without limitation, the invention is directed to
intercoms. As shown in FIG. 38, intercoms 3804, 3806 include
transceivers 3808, 3810, respectively, for communicating with
other. In embodiments of the invention, the transceivers 3808, 3810
include UFT modules for performing frequency translation operations
(see, for example, FIGS. 10 and 11). In other embodiments, the
transceivers 3808, 3810 are replaced by receivers and transmitters,
wherein the receivers and/or transmitters are implemented using UFT
modules for performing frequency translation operations (see, for
example, FIGS. 7 and 8).
[0284] The invention can also be used to transmit signals from one
home device to another home device. For example, the invention is
applicable for propagating video and/or audio signals throughout a
home. This is shown, for example, in FIG. 38, where TVs 3812, 3814
include transceivers 3816, 3818 for communicating with one another.
The transceivers 3816, 3818 enabled video signals to be sent from
one of the TVs to another. In embodiments of the invention, the
transceivers 3816, 3818 are implemented using UFT modules for
performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 10 and 11). In other embodiments, the transceivers 3816, 3818
are replaced by receivers and transmitters, wherein the receivers
and/or transmitters are implemented using UFT modules for
performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 7 and 8).
[0285] FIG. 38 also illustrates an embodiment where transceivers
3824, 3826 are used to communicate audio signals between a CD
player 3820 and a multi-media receiver 3822. In embodiments, the
transceivers 3824, 3826 are implemented using UFT modules for
performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 10 and 11). In other embodiments, the transceivers 3824, 3826
are replaced by receivers and transmitters, wherein the receivers
and/or transmitters are implemented using UFT modules for
performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 7 and 8).
[0286] In the figures described above, many of the components are
shown as including transceivers. In practice, however, some
components are receive only or transmit only. This is true for some
of the devices discussed throughout this application, as will be
apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s). In such cases,
the transceivers can be replaced by receivers or transmitters,
which are preferably implemented using UFT modules for performing
frequency translation operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and
8).
Automotive Controls
[0287] The invention is directed to automotive controls, and other
devices often used in or with automobiles.
[0288] FIG. 39 illustrates an example car 3902 according to an
embodiment of the invention. The car 3902 includes a number of
devices that communicate with objects.
[0289] For example, the car 3902 includes an interface 3904 (or
multiple interfaces) for communicating with external devices, such
as but not limited to gasoline pumps 3912 and toll booths 3916. In
operation, for example, when the car 3902 approaches the toll booth
3916, the interface 3904 communicates with the toll booth 3916 in
an appropriate and well known manner to enable the car 3902 to pass
through the toll booth 3916. Also, when the car 3902 is proximate
to the gasoline pump 3912, the interface 3904 interacts with the
gas pump in an appropriate and well known manner to enable the
driver of the car 3902 to utilize the gas pump 3912 to fill the car
3902 with gas.
[0290] The car also includes a controllable door lock 3908. Upon
receipt of an appropriate signal from a keyless entry device 3914,
the controllable door lock 3908 locks or unlocks (based on the
signal received).
[0291] The car further includes a controller 3910, which controls
and interacts with the systems, instrumentation, and other devices
of the car 3902. The controller 3910 communicates with a control
unit 3918. It is possible to control the car 3902 via use of the
control unit 3918. The control unit 3918 sends commands to the
controller 3910. The controller 3910 performs the functions
specified in the commands from the control unit 3918. Also, the
control unit 3918 sends queries to the controller 3910. The
controller 3910 transmits to the control unit 3918 the car-related
information specified in the queries. Thus, any car functions under
the control of the controller 3910 can be controlled via the
control unit 3918.
[0292] It is noted that the features and functions described above
and shown in FIG. 39 are provided for illustrative purposes only,
and are not limiting. The invention is applicable to other car
related devices, such as but not limited to security systems, GPS
systems, telephones, etc.
[0293] The interface 3904, the door lock 3908, the controller 3910,
and any other car devices of interest include one or more
transceivers 3906A, 3906B, 3906C for communicating with external
devices. Also, the gasoline pump 3912, keyless entry device 3914,
toll booth 3916, control unit 3918, and any other appropriate
devices include transceivers 3906D, 3906E, 3906F, 3906G for
communicating with the car 3902.
[0294] Preferably, the transceivers 3906 are implemented using UFT
modules for performing frequency translation operations (see FIGS.
10 and 11). Alternatively, one or more of the transceivers 3906 can
be replaced by receiver(s) and/or transmitter(s), wherein the
receiver(s) and/or transmitter(s) are implemented using UFT modules
for performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 7 and 8).
Aircraft Controls
[0295] The invention is directed to aircraft controls, and other
devices often used in or with aircrafts.
[0296] FIG. 40A illustrates an example aircraft 4002 according to
an embodiment of the invention. The aircraft 4002 includes, for
example, a GPS unit 4012 for receipt of positioning information.
The GPS unit 4012 is coupled to a transceiver 4004D for receiving
positioning information.
[0297] The aircraft 4002 also includes one or more radio(s) 4010
for communication with external entities. The radio(s) 4010 include
one or more transceivers 4004C for enabling such communication.
[0298] The aircraft 4002 also includes monitors 4008 for
displaying, for example, video programming, and computers 4009 that
transmit and receive information over a communication network. The
monitors 4008 and computers 4009 include one or more transceiver(s)
4004B for communicating with external devices, such as video
programming sources and/or data communication networks.
[0299] The aircraft 4002 includes a controller 4006 for controlling
the systems, instrumentation, and other devices of the aircraft
4002. The controller 4006 can communicate with external devices via
a transceiver 4004A. External devices may control the aircraft 4002
by sending appropriate commands, queries, and other messages to the
controller 4006.
[0300] It is noted that the features and functions described above
and shown in FIG. 40A are provided for illustrative purposes only,
and are not limiting. The invention is applicable to other aircraft
related devices, such as but not limited to security systems,
telephones, etc.
[0301] Preferably, the transceivers 4004 are implemented using UFT
modules for performing frequency translation operations (see FIGS.
10 and 11). Alternatively, one or more of the transceivers 4004 can
be replaced by receiver(s) and/or transmitter(s), wherein the
receiver(s) and/or transmitter(s) are implemented using UFT modules
for performing frequency translation operations (see, for example,
FIGS. 7 and 8).
Maritime Controls
[0302] The invention is directed to maritime controls, and other
maritime-related devices.
[0303] FIG. 40B illustrates an example boat 4050 according to an
embodiment of the invention. The devices in the example boat 4050
of FIG. 40B are similar to the devices in the example aircraft 4002
of FIG. 40A. Accordingly, the description above relating to FIG.
40A applies to FIG. 40B.
Radio Control
[0304] The invention is directed to radio controlled devices, such
as but not limited to radio controlled cars, planes and boats.
[0305] FIG. 41 illustrates radio controlled devices according to
embodiments of the invention. A controller 4104 includes control
logic 4106 for generating commands to control various devices, such
as a plane 4110, a car 4116, and a boat 4122. The controller 4104
includes a transceiver 4108 for communication with the plane 4110,
car 4146, and boat 4122.
[0306] The plane 4110, the car 4116, and the boat 4122 includes
control modules 4112, 4118 and 4124 for processing commands
received from the controller 4104. Also, control modules 4112,
4118, and 4124 maintain status information that can be communicated
back to the control 4104. The plane 4110, the car 4116 and boat
4122 include transceivers 4114, 4120, and 4126, respectively, for
communicating with the controller 4104.
[0307] Preferably, the transceivers 4108, 4114, 4120, and 4126 are
implemented using UFT modules for performing frequency translation
operations (see FIGS. 10 and 11). Alternatively, the transceivers
4108, 4114, 4120, and 4126 can be replaced by receivers and
transmitters, wherein the receivers and/or transmitters are
implemented using UFT modules for performing frequency translation
operations (see, for example, FIGS. 7 and 8).
Radio Synchronous Watch
[0308] The invention is directed to radio synchronous time devices.
Radio synchronous time devices are time pieces that receive signals
representative of the current time. An example source of such time
signals is radio station WWV in Boulder, Colo. Radio synchronous
time devices update their internal clocks with the current time
information contained in the signals.
[0309] The invention is directed to all types of radio synchronous
time devices, such as alarm clocks, clocks in appliances and
electronic equipment such as clocks in computers, clocks in
televisions, clocks in VCRs, wrist watches, home and office clocks,
clocks in ovens and other appliances, etc.
[0310] FIG. 43 illustrates an example radio synchronous time piece
4302, an example of which is shown in FIG. 43. The radio
synchronous time piece 4302 includes a display 4304 to display the
current time and time zone (and perhaps the position of the time
piece 4302), receiver(s) 4306, a time module 4310, a GPS module
4308, and a battery 4312.
[0311] The receiver 4306 receives time signals from a time
information source 4314. Based on the time signals, the time module
4310 determines the current time in a well known manner. Depending
on the nature of the received time signals, the current time may be
GMT. The current time is displayed in display 4304.
[0312] The receiver 4306 may receive the time signals continuously,
periodically, upon user command, or sporadically (depending on the
signal strength of the time information source 4314, for example).
At times when the receiver 4306 is not receiving time signals, the
time module 4310 determines the current time in a well known manner
(i.e., the time module 4310 operates as a clock), using the
indication of time in the last received time signal. In some
embodiments, the time piece 4302 may provide some indication when
it is receiving time signals from the time information source 4314.
For example, the time piece 4302 may provide a visual or audible
indication (such as lighting an LED or beeping when time signals
are being received). The user can elect to disable this
feature.
[0313] The receiver 4306 may also receive positioning information
from global positioning satellites 4316. The GPS module 4308 uses
the received positioning information to determine the location of
the time piece 4302. The time module 4310 uses the location
information to determine the time zone and/or the local time. The
time zone, the local time, and/or the location of the time piece
4302 may be displayed in the display 4304.
[0314] Preferably, the receiver(s) 4306 are implemented using UFT
modules for performing frequency translation operations (see, for
example, FIG. 7).
[0315] The invention is particularly well suited for implementation
as a time piece given the low power requirements of UFT modules.
Time pieces implemented using UFT modules increase the effective
life of the battery 4312.
Other Example Applications
[0316] The application embodiments described above are provided for
purposes of illustration. These applications and embodiments are
not intended to limit the invention. Alternate and additional
applications and embodiments, differing slightly or substantially
from those described herein, will be apparent to persons skilled in
the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained herein. For
example, such alternate and additional applications and embodiments
include combinations of those described above. Such combinations
will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on
the herein teachings.
[0317] Additional applications and embodiments are described
below.
Applications Involving Enhanced Signal Reception
[0318] As discussed above, the invention is directed to methods and
systems for enhanced signal reception (ESR). Any of the example
applications discussed above can be modified by incorporating ESR
therein to enhance communication between transmitters and
receivers. Accordingly, the invention is also directed to any of
the applications described above, in combination with any of the
ESR embodiments described above.
Applications Involving Unified Down-Conversion and Filtering
[0319] As described above, the invention is directed to unified
down-conversion and filtering (UDF). UDF according to the invention
can be used to performed filtering and/or down-conversion
operations.
[0320] Many if not all of the applications described herein involve
frequency translation operations. Accordingly, the applications
described above can be enhanced by using any of the UDF embodiments
described herein.
[0321] Many if not all of the applications described above involve
filtering operations. Accordingly, any of the applications
described above can be enhanced by using any of the UDF embodiments
described herein.
[0322] Accordingly, the invention is directed to any of the
applications described herein in combination with any of the UDF
embodiments described herein.
CONCLUSION
[0323] Example implementations of the systems and components of the
invention have been described herein. As noted elsewhere, these
example implementations have been described for illustrative
purposes only, and are not limiting. Other implementation
embodiments are possible and covered by the invention, such as but
not limited to software and software/hardware implementations of
the systems and components of the invention. Such implementation
embodiments will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant
art(s) based on the teachings contained herein.
[0324] While various application embodiments of the present
invention have been described above, it should be understood that
they have been presented by way of example only, and not
limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention
should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary
embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the
following claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *