Antenna calibration method, device and system and storage medium

Abstract

The invention discloses an antenna calibration method, device and system and a storage medium, and relates to the technical field of antennas. According to the specific implementation scheme, the antenna calibration system comprises a main calibration network and a plurality of sub calibration networks; the plurality of sub-calibration networks are in one-to-one correspondence with a plurality of sub-arrays in the active antenna array and are used for performing in-array calibration processing on the plurality of sub-arrays; the main calibration network is connected with the plurality of sub-calibration networks and is used for performing inter-array calibration processing on the plurality of sub-arrays; through the arrangement of the plurality of sub-calibration networks and the main calibration network, the plurality of sub-arrays in the antenna array can be calibrated in parallel under the condition that the number of transceiving channels in the antenna array is too large, so that the calibration time is shortened, the transceiving channels in the antenna array are prevented from being occupied for a long time, and the working efficiency of the antenna array is improved; the communication performance of the antenna array is ensured, and the normal communication service is prevented from being influenced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of antenna technology, and in particular to an antenna calibration method, apparatus, system, and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] Current antenna calibration methods are mainly self-calibration. Self-calibration of antenna arrays requires designing a coupled calibration network within the array to form a feedback loop. By analyzing the differences between the transmitted and received signals, the amplitude and phase differences between the various transmit and receive channels of the antenna array are obtained, and then the amplitude and phase of each transmit and receive channel are calibrated.

[0003] The above scheme requires the use of the transmit and receive channels in the antenna array. If there are too many transmit and receive channels in the antenna array, it will significantly extend the calibration time. The excessive time spent occupying these channels reduces the antenna array's efficiency, affects its communication performance, and impacts normal communication services. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides an antenna calibration method, apparatus, system, and storage medium.

[0005] According to one aspect of this application, an antenna calibration system is provided, the system comprising: a main calibration network and a plurality of sub-calibration networks; the plurality of sub-calibration networks correspond one-to-one with a plurality of subarrays in an active antenna array, and are used to perform intra-array calibration processing on the plurality of subarrays; the main calibration network is connected to the plurality of sub-calibration networks and is used to perform inter-array calibration processing on the plurality of subarrays.

[0006] According to another aspect of this application, an antenna calibration method is provided, applied to an antenna calibration system, the antenna calibration system including a main calibration network and multiple sub-calibration networks corresponding one-to-one with multiple sub-arrays in an active antenna array; the method includes: acquiring current operating environment parameters of the active antenna array; controlling the multiple sub-calibration networks to perform intra-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays in combination with the current operating environment parameters; and controlling the main calibration network and the multiple sub-calibration networks to perform inter-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays in combination with the current operating environment parameters.

[0007] According to another aspect of this application, an apparatus is provided, including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor: the memory for storing a computer program; the transceiver for transmitting and receiving data under the control of the processor; and the processor for reading the computer program in the memory and performing the following operations: acquiring current operating environment parameters of an active antenna array; controlling a plurality of sub-calibration networks to perform intra-array calibration processing on the plurality of sub-arrays in conjunction with the current operating environment parameters; and controlling a main calibration network and the plurality of sub-calibration networks to perform inter-array calibration processing on the plurality of sub-arrays in conjunction with the current operating environment parameters.

[0008] According to another aspect of this application, an antenna calibration apparatus is provided, applied to an antenna calibration system, the antenna calibration system including a main calibration network and multiple sub-calibration networks corresponding one-to-one with multiple sub-arrays in an active antenna array; the apparatus includes: an acquisition unit for acquiring current operating environment parameters of the active antenna array; a first control unit for controlling the multiple sub-calibration networks to perform intra-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays in conjunction with the current operating environment parameters; and a second control unit for controlling the main calibration network and the multiple sub-calibration networks to perform inter-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays in conjunction with the current operating environment parameters.

[0009] According to another aspect of this application, a processor-readable storage medium is provided, the processor-readable storage medium storing a computer program for causing the processor to perform the antenna calibration method of the second aspect embodiment.

[0010] This application has the following technical advantages:

[0011] The antenna calibration system includes a main calibration network and multiple sub-calibration networks. Each sub-calibration network corresponds one-to-one with a subarray in the active antenna array and is used for intra-array calibration. The main calibration network, connected to the sub-calibration networks, is used for inter-array calibration. The combination of these sub-calibration networks and the main calibration network allows for parallel calibration of multiple subarrays in the antenna array, even when the number of transmit and receive channels is excessive. This shortens calibration time, avoids prolonged occupation of transmit and receive channels, improves antenna array efficiency, ensures communication performance, and prevents disruption to normal communication services.

[0012] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of this application, nor is it intended to limit the scope of this application. Other features of this application will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The accompanying drawings are provided for a better understanding of this solution and do not constitute a limitation of this application. Wherein:

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna calibration system provided according to an embodiment of this application;

[0015] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of an antenna calibration method provided according to an embodiment of this application;

[0016] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the antenna calibration method;

[0017] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an antenna calibration method;

[0018] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of determining calibration data;

[0019] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an antenna calibration device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0020] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna calibration device provided according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0022] In the embodiments of this application, the term "and / or" describes the relationship between associated objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three cases: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following associated objects have an "or" relationship.

[0023] In the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more, and other quantifiers are similar.

[0024] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0025] The antenna calibration method, apparatus, system, and storage medium of this embodiment are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] It should be noted that the technical solutions provided in this application are applicable to a variety of systems, especially future 6G communication systems and low-Earth orbit satellite communication systems. For example, applicable systems may include Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD), LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD), Long Term Evolution Advanced (LTE-A), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), and 5G New Radio (NR). All of these systems include both a transmitter and a receiver. The system may also include a core network component, such as the Evolved Packet System (EPS) or the 5G system (5GS).

[0027] The antenna calibration system described in this application can be applied to antenna arrays in terminal devices and antenna arrays in network devices. The antenna calibration system can be used to perform self-calibration processing on antenna arrays in terminal devices and / or network devices.

[0028] The terminal devices involved in the embodiments of this application can be devices that provide voice and / or data connectivity to users, handheld devices with wireless connectivity, or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem. The names of the terminal devices may differ in different systems; for example, in a 5G system, a terminal device can be called User Equipment (UE). Wireless terminal devices can communicate with one or more core networks (CNs) via a Radio Access Network (RAN). Wireless terminal devices can be mobile terminal devices, such as mobile phones (or "cellular" phones) and computers with mobile terminal devices, for example, portable, pocket-sized, handheld, computer-embedded, or vehicle-mounted mobile devices that exchange voice and / or data with the RAN. Examples include Personal Communication Service (PCS) phones, cordless phones, Session Initiated Protocol (SIP) phones, Wireless Local Loop (WLL) stations, and Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). Wireless terminal equipment can also be referred to as a system, subscriber unit, subscriber station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, access point, remote terminal, access terminal, user terminal, user agent, or user device, but is not limited to these terms in the embodiments of this application.

[0029] The network device involved in this application embodiment can be a base station, which may include multiple cells providing services to terminals. Depending on the specific application, a base station may also be called an access point, or a device in an access network that communicates with a wireless terminal device through one or more sectors on the air interface, or other names. The network device can be used to exchange received air frames with Internet Protocol (IP) packets, acting as a router between the wireless terminal device and the rest of the access network, where the rest of the access network may include an Internet Protocol (IP) communication network. The network device can also coordinate the attribute management of the air interface. For example, the network equipment involved in the embodiments of this application can be a base transceiver station (BTS) in a Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), a NodeB in a Wide-band Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) system, an evolved Node B (eNB or e-NodeB) in a long term evolution (LTE) system, a 5G base station (gNB) in a next generation system, a Home evolved Node B (HeNB), a relay node, a femto, a pico, etc., and is not limited in the embodiments of this application. In some network structures, the network equipment may include centralized unit (CU) nodes and distributed unit (DU) nodes, and the centralized unit and distributed unit may be geographically separated.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna calibration system according to an embodiment of this application. The antenna calibration system can be installed in a hardware device configured with an antenna array. The hardware device may include, for example, a terminal device and / or a network device.

[0031] like Figure 1 As shown, the antenna calibration system may include:

[0032] A main calibration network 101 and multiple sub-calibration networks 102 are provided. The multiple sub-calibration networks 102 correspond one-to-one with multiple sub-arrays in the active antenna array and are used to perform intra-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays. The main calibration network 101 is connected to the multiple sub-calibration networks 102 and is used to perform inter-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays.

[0033] In this embodiment, the active antenna array may include multiple antennas, which together form the active antenna array. The active antenna array can be divided into multiple subarrays. It should be noted that the number of antennas in the multiple subarrays can be the same or different. For example, in one example, the number of antennas in each of the multiple subarrays is N. In another example, one subarray may have N1 antennas, and another subarray may have N2 antennas.

[0034] In this embodiment, the sub-calibration network 102 may include a sub-array signal processing unit 1021, a transmit calibration network 1022, and a receive calibration network 1023. The transmit calibration network 1022 is connected to the sub-array signal processing unit 1021 and is used to perform intra-array calibration processing on the transmit sub-arrays within the sub-array corresponding to the sub-array 102. The receive calibration network 1023 is connected to the sub-array signal processing unit 1021 and is used to perform intra-array calibration processing on the receive sub-arrays within the sub-array. The sub-array signal processing unit 1021 may be implemented, for example, by a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a central processing unit (CPU), or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0035] Within the subarray, there are transmitting subarrays and receiving subarrays. The transmitting subarray is used for signal transmission processing, and the receiving subarray is used for signal reception processing. The transmitting and receiving subarrays can be the same or different. For example, the same subarray can function as a transmitting subarray during one time period and as a receiving subarray during another time period.

[0036] The setup of the transmitting calibration network 1022 and the receiving calibration network 1023 enables comprehensive calibration of the subarray, ensuring calibration completeness and improving the accuracy of the calibrated subarray.

[0037] The transmit calibration network 1022 may include a first coupling network, a first power divider network, and a first transmit calibration channel. The first coupling network is connected to the transmit subarray and is used to couple multiple transmit channels within the transmit subarray to obtain a first coupled signal. The multiple transmit channels are used to transmit the first calibration signal of the subarray signal processing unit. The first power divider network is used to combine multiple first coupled signals to obtain a first target signal and provides the first target signal to the subarray signal processing unit through the first transmit calibration channel. The subarray signal processing unit performs in-array calibration processing on the transmit subarray based on the first calibration signal and the first target signal.

[0038] The subarray signal processing unit can determine the reference antenna in the transmitting subarray; using the reference antenna as a reference, and combining the first calibration signal and the first target signal, determine the differences in amplitude and phase between the other antennas in the transmitting subarray and the reference antenna; and perform calibration processing on the other antennas based on the differences.

[0039] The receiver calibration network 1023 may include a second coupling network, a second power splitter network, and a first receiver calibration channel. The second power splitter network receives the second calibration signal from the subarray signal processing unit through the first receiver calibration channel, performs splitting processing on the second calibration signal, and provides multiple first split signals obtained from the splitting processing to the second coupling network. The second coupling network is connected to the receiver subarray and couples the multiple first split signals to multiple receiver channels of the receiver subarray. The subarray processing unit performs in-array calibration processing on the receiver subarray based on the second target signals and the second calibration signal from the multiple receiver channels within the receiver subarray.

[0040] The subarray signal processing unit can determine the reference antenna in the receiving subarray; using the reference antenna as a reference, and combining the second calibration signal and the second target signal, determine the differences in amplitude and phase between the other antennas in the receiving subarray and the reference antenna; and perform calibration processing on the other antennas based on the differences.

[0041] In this embodiment, the sub-calibration network 102 may further include a calibration data memory connected to the sub-array signal processing unit 1021; the calibration data memory stores calibration data and / or calibration data calculation functions for performing open-loop calibration processing on the sub-calibration network.

[0042] The calibration data stored in the calibration data memory is the historical calibration data of the sub-calibration network 102; the calibration data calculation function stored in the calibration data memory is obtained by fitting the function based on the historical calibration data of the sub-calibration network 102.

[0043] It should be noted that the calibration data storage device in this embodiment can be a storage device dedicated to storing calibration data; or, it can be a storage device reused for storing other data.

[0044] In one example, the calibration data stored in the calibration data memory can be historical calibration data of the sub-calibration network 102. This historical calibration data can be historical calibration data obtained by the sub-calibration network 102 during the calibration process; or it can be calibration data determined by the antenna under various operating environments before it leaves the factory.

[0045] In another example, the calibration data calculation function stored in the calibration data memory is obtained by fitting a function to historical calibration data from the sub-calibration network 102. An initial function can be set, which can be a function with multiple coefficients, using operating environment parameters as variables. The values ​​of these coefficients can be determined during the fitting process. Subsequently, in use, the specific values ​​of the operating environment parameters and the fitted function can be combined to calculate and determine the calibration data, which is then used for calibration processing.

[0046] In this embodiment of the application, in the sub-calibration network 102, a first switching switch is provided between the first power divider network and the first transmission calibration channel; one end of the first switching switch is connected to the first power divider network; the other end of the first switching switch is connected to the first transmission calibration channel for performing intra-array calibration processing on the transmission sub-array; or, the other end of the first switching switch is connected to the third power divider network for performing inter-array calibration processing on the transmission sub-array.

[0047] In this embodiment of the application, in the sub-calibration network 102, a second switching switch is provided between the second power divider network and the first receive calibration channel; one end of the second switching switch is connected to the second power divider network; the other end of the second switching switch is connected to the first receive calibration channel for performing intra-array calibration processing on the receive sub-array; or, the other end of the second switching switch is connected to the fourth power divider network for performing inter-array calibration processing on the receive sub-array.

[0048] Specifically, for each sub-calibration network 102, when the other end of the first switching switch is connected to the first transmit calibration channel, it is used to perform intra-array calibration processing on the transmit sub-array; when the other end of the second switching switch is connected to the first receive calibration channel, it is used to perform intra-array calibration processing on the receive sub-array.

[0049] Specifically, for all sub-calibration networks 102, when the other end of the first switching switch in all sub-calibration networks 102 is connected to the third power divider network, it is used to perform inter-array calibration processing on all transmitting sub-arrays; when the other end of the second switching switch in all sub-calibration networks 102 is connected to the fourth power divider network, it is used to perform inter-array calibration processing on all receiving sub-arrays.

[0050] The first and second switching switches facilitate switching between intra-array and inter-array calibration processes, ensuring comprehensive calibration. They also allow for selection of the number of intra-array and inter-array calibration processes, as well as the order in which they are performed, to further improve calibration efficiency. For example, the order could be: perform one intra-array calibration process, then one inter-array calibration process, and then another intra-array calibration process, and so on.

[0051] In this embodiment, the main calibration network 101 includes a main signal processing unit 1011, a third power divider network 1012, a second transmit calibration channel 1013, a fourth power divider network 1014, and a second receive calibration channel 1015. The main signal processing unit 1011 is configured to provide a third calibration signal to multiple sub-calibration networks 102, and to acquire a third target signal from the multiple sub-calibration networks 102 through the second transmit calibration channel 1013 and the third power divider network 1012; and to perform inter-array calibration processing on the transmit sub-arrays of the multiple sub-arrays based on the third target signal and the third calibration signal; or, the main signal processing unit 1011 is configured to provide a fourth calibration signal to the multiple sub-calibration networks 102 through the second receive calibration channel 1015 and the fourth power divider network 1014, and to acquire a fourth target signal from the multiple sub-calibration networks 102; and to perform inter-array calibration processing on the receive sub-arrays of the multiple sub-arrays based on the fourth target signal and the fourth calibration signal.

[0052] The main signal processing unit 1011 can determine a reference transmitter subarray among multiple transmitter subarrays; using the reference transmitter subarray as a reference, and combining the third calibration signal and the third target signal, determine the differences in amplitude and phase between other transmitter subarrays and the reference transmitter subarray; and perform calibration processing on the other transmitter subarrays based on the differences.

[0053] The main signal processing unit 1011 can determine a reference receiving subarray among multiple receiving subarrays; using the reference receiving subarray as a reference, and combining the fourth calibration signal and the fourth target signal, determine the differences in amplitude and phase between other receiving subarrays and the reference receiving subarray; and perform calibration processing on the other receiving subarrays based on the differences.

[0054] In this embodiment, the third power divider network 1012 can be connected to the first power divider network among multiple sub-calibration networks via a first switching switch to acquire the third target signal; the fourth power divider network 1014 can be connected to the second power divider network among multiple sub-calibration networks via a second switching switch to send the fourth calibration signal.

[0055] The antenna calibration system of this application embodiment includes a main calibration network and multiple sub-calibration networks. Each sub-calibration network corresponds one-to-one with a sub-array in the active antenna array and is used for intra-array calibration of the sub-arrays. The main calibration network is connected to the multiple sub-calibration networks and is used for inter-array calibration of the sub-arrays. The arrangement of multiple sub-calibration networks and the main calibration network allows for parallel calibration of multiple sub-arrays in the antenna array when there are too many transmit / receive channels. This shortens calibration time, avoids prolonged occupation of transmit / receive channels in the antenna array, improves the working efficiency of the antenna array, ensures the communication performance of the antenna array, and prevents disruption to normal communication services.

[0056] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating an antenna calibration method according to an embodiment of this application. The antenna calibration method is applied to an antenna calibration device. In this embodiment, the antenna calibration device is implemented through software and / or hardware and can be configured within an antenna calibration system. The antenna calibration system includes a main calibration network and multiple sub-calibration networks corresponding one-to-one with multiple sub-arrays in an active antenna array. The main signal processing unit within the main calibration network is one of these sub-calibration networks.

[0057] like Figure 2 As shown, the antenna calibration method may include:

[0058] Step 201: Obtain the current operating environment parameters of the active antenna array.

[0059] In this embodiment, the active antenna array can be an antenna array in a terminal device and / or an antenna array in a network device. The terminal device can be a device that provides voice and / or data connectivity to a user, a handheld device with wireless connectivity, or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, etc.

[0060] The network equipment can be a base station, which may include multiple cells providing services to terminals. Depending on the specific application, a base station may also be called an access point, or it may be a device in the access network that communicates with wireless terminal devices through one or more sectors on the air interface, or other names.

[0061] The current working environment parameters may include at least one of the following: ambient temperature, ambient humidity, etc.

[0062] Step 202: Based on the current working environment parameters, control multiple sub-calibration networks to perform intra-array calibration processing on multiple sub-arrays.

[0063] In this embodiment, the antenna calibration system may perform step 202 as follows: for each sub-calibration network, query the calibration data storage of the sub-calibration network according to the current working environment parameters to obtain the query result; if the query result is that target historical calibration data matching the current working environment parameters is found, perform open-loop in-array calibration processing on the sub-array corresponding to the sub-calibration network according to the target historical calibration data; if the query result is that target historical calibration data is not found, perform closed-loop in-array calibration processing on the sub-array corresponding to the sub-calibration network.

[0064] In this embodiment of the application, the target historical calibration data can be historical calibration data in which the difference between the corresponding working environment parameters and the current working environment parameters meets the difference condition and is in a valid state.

[0065] Taking ambient temperature as an example, the difference condition can be a temperature difference range, defined by the minimum and maximum temperature differences. Specifically, if the difference between the working environment parameters corresponding to the target historical calibration data and the current working environment parameters falls within the temperature difference range, the difference condition is satisfied. Conversely, if the difference between the working environment parameters corresponding to the target historical calibration data and the current working environment parameters does not fall within the temperature difference range, the difference condition is not satisfied.

[0066] The amplitude and phase of each channel in the antenna array are affected not only by environmental parameters but also by at least one of the following parameters: internal temperature distribution, stress changes, and device aging. In other words, as at least one of these factors changes, the calibration data for the amplitude and phase of each channel in the antenna array may change, rendering the historical calibration data stored in the calibration data storage for each environmental parameter inapplicable. Therefore, it is necessary to set an expiration date for the historical calibration data stored in the calibration data storage for each environmental parameter; for each historical calibration data, it is determined to be valid if it is within the expiration date, and invalid if it is outside the expiration date.

[0067] Step 203: Based on the current working environment parameters, control the main calibration network and multiple sub-calibration networks to perform inter-array calibration on multiple sub-arrays.

[0068] In this embodiment of the application, the antenna calibration system may also perform the following process: for each subarray, acquire the intra-array calibration data and inter-array calibration data of the subarray; and update the calibration data storage of the sub-calibration network corresponding to the subarray based on the intra-array calibration data and inter-array calibration data.

[0069] The following example illustrates this. For example... Figure 3 The diagram shown is a schematic of the antenna calibration method. Figure 3 The calibration process may include the following steps: Step 301, calibration begins. Step 302, acquire current operating environment parameters, such as operating temperature and operating parameters of the equipment to which the antenna array belongs. Step 303, check if there is historical calibration data matching the operating environment parameters; if not, proceed to step 304; if so, proceed to step 310. Step 304, initiate closed-loop feedback calibration for each subarray. Step 305, each subarray performs closed-loop feedback calibration in parallel. Step 306, save the calibration data to the calibration data memory of the corresponding subarray. Step 307, the main signal processing unit initiates closed-loop feedback calibration. Step 308, perform closed-loop feedback calibration on the amplitude and phase differences between each subarray. Step 309, save the calibration data between subarrays to the calibration data memory of the corresponding subarray, and then proceed to step 311. Step 310, each subarray reads the historical calibration data from the calibration data memory and performs open-loop self-calibration, and then proceeds to step 311. Step 311, calibration ends.

[0070] Among them, such as Figure 4 The image shown is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an antenna calibration method. Figure 4 In this setup, an active antenna array has 1000 receive and 1000 transmit channels. To shorten self-calibration time, the active antenna array can be divided into 10 sub-regions (sub-arrays). Each sub-region has an independent closed-loop feedback transceiver calibration circuit, an FPGA, and a memory (collectively, a sub-calibration network), capable of calibrating 100 receive and transmit channels within the sub-region. Figure 4Specifically, the calibration process may include the following steps: Step 401: Calibration begins. Step 402: Read operating temperature, antenna configuration parameters, and calendar. Step 403: Determine if there is historical calibration data that simultaneously meets the following conditions: 1) Temperature difference within 5 degrees Celsius; 2) Same antenna configuration parameters; 3) Data is valid for one month. If yes, proceed to step 410; otherwise, proceed to step 404. Step 404: Set antenna operating parameters; all 10 sub-regions simultaneously initiate closed-loop feedback self-calibration, with the transmit / receive calibration channel selected from within each sub-region. Step 405: Each sub-region performs closed-loop feedback calibration in parallel. Step 406: Each sub-region saves calibration data to its memory. Step 407: The central unit (main signal processing unit) initiates the closed-loop feedback calibration system, with the transmit / receive calibration channel selected from the central unit. Step 408: Calibrate the amplitude and phase differences between the 10 sub-regions. Step 409: The central unit saves the calibration data between the sub-regions to their corresponding memories, and then proceeds to step 411. Step 410: Retrieve the historical calibration data with the closest parameters for each sub-region to complete open-loop self-calibration, and then proceed to step 411. Step 411: Calibration complete.

[0071] Among them, such as Figure 5 The image shown is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of determining calibration data. Figure 5 In this context, the active antenna array can be an active antenna array on an in-orbit satellite. This active antenna array only has a transmitting array, no receiving array, and its calibration is based solely on changes in ambient temperature. Specifically, the operating ambient temperature range of this active antenna array is -20°C to 50°C. The active antenna array determines historical calibration data through a calibration data calculation function. Figure 5 Specifically, the calibration data check may include the following steps: Step 501: Calibration data check begins. Step 502: Each subarray detects the calibration data calculation function in its calibration data memory. Step 503: Determine if a suitable calibration data calculation function exists; if so, proceed to step 509; otherwise, proceed to step 504. Step 504: Read the current operating environment parameters and set the antenna operating parameters. Step 505: Parallel closed-loop feedback calibration within the subarray. Step 506: Closed-loop feedback calibration between subarrays. Step 507: Determine if the temperature range meets the requirements, i.e., whether the acquired historical calibration data is sufficient for function fitting; if so, proceed to step 508; otherwise, proceed to step 504. Step 508: Obtain amplitude calibration coefficients c0, c1, c2 and phase calibration coefficients k0, k1, k2 based on the calibration data fitting. Step 509: Calibration data check ends.

[0072] The antenna calibration method of this application embodiment obtains the current operating environment parameters of the active antenna array; combines the current operating environment parameters to control multiple sub-calibration networks to perform intra-array calibration processing on multiple sub-arrays; and combines the current operating environment parameters to control the main calibration network and multiple sub-calibration networks to perform inter-array calibration processing on multiple sub-arrays. Therefore, when the number of transmit and receive channels in the antenna array is too large, multiple sub-arrays in the antenna array can be calibrated in parallel, thereby shortening the calibration time, avoiding prolonged occupation of transmit and receive channels in the antenna array, improving the working efficiency of the antenna array, ensuring the communication performance of the antenna array, and avoiding impact on normal communication services.

[0073] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna calibration device according to an embodiment of this application. The antenna calibration device is implemented through software and / or hardware, and in this embodiment, the antenna calibration device can be configured in a terminal device or a network device.

[0074] like Figure 6 As shown, the antenna calibration device may include: a memory 600, a transceiver 610, and a processor 620, wherein the transceiver 610 is used to receive and transmit data under the control of the processor 620.

[0075] Among them, Figure 6 In this context, the bus architecture can include any number of interconnected buses and bridges, specifically linking various circuits together, represented by one or more processors (processor 620) and memory (memory 600). The bus architecture can also link together various other circuits such as peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be described further herein. The bus interface provides an interface. The transceiver 610 can be multiple elements, including transmitters and receivers, providing units for communicating with various other devices over transmission media, including wireless channels, wired channels, optical fibers, etc. The processor 620 is responsible for managing the bus architecture and general processing, and the memory 600 can store data used by the processor 620 during operation.

[0076] The processor 620 can be a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or a complex programmable logic device (CPLD). The processor can also adopt a multi-core architecture.

[0077] The processor 620 calls a computer program stored in memory and performs the following operations:

[0078] Obtain the current operating environment parameters of the active antenna array; based on the current operating environment parameters, control the multiple sub-calibration networks to perform intra-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays; based on the current operating environment parameters, control the main calibration network and the multiple sub-calibration networks to perform inter-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays.

[0079] In one embodiment of this application, controlling the plurality of sub-calibration networks to perform intra-array calibration processing on the plurality of sub-arrays in conjunction with the current working environment parameters specifically includes: for each sub-calibration network, querying the calibration data storage of the sub-calibration network according to the current working environment parameters to obtain a query result; if the query result finds target historical calibration data matching the current working environment parameters, performing open-loop intra-array calibration processing on the sub-array corresponding to the sub-calibration network according to the target historical calibration data; if the query result does not find the target historical calibration data, performing closed-loop intra-array calibration processing on the sub-array corresponding to the sub-calibration network.

[0080] In one embodiment of this application, the target historical calibration data is historical calibration data in which the difference between the corresponding working environment parameters and the current working environment parameters meets the difference condition and is in a valid state.

[0081] In one embodiment of this application, the processor 620 is further configured to invoke a computer program in the memory and perform the following operations: for each subarray, obtain intra-array calibration data and inter-array calibration data of the subarray; and update the calibration data memory of the sub-calibration network corresponding to the subarray based on the intra-array calibration data and the inter-array calibration data.

[0082] It should be noted that the antenna calibration device provided in this application embodiment can achieve the above-mentioned... Figures 2 to 5 All method steps implemented in the method embodiment can achieve the same technical effect. Therefore, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and their beneficial effects will not be described in detail here.

[0083] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of an antenna calibration device according to an embodiment of this application. The antenna calibration device is implemented through software and / or hardware. In this embodiment, the antenna calibration device can be configured in a terminal device or network device, for example, in an antenna calibration system configured in a terminal device or network device.

[0084] The antenna calibration system includes a main calibration network and multiple sub-calibration networks that correspond one-to-one with multiple sub-arrays in the active antenna array.

[0085] like Figure 7 As shown, the antenna calibration device 70 may include: an acquisition unit 701, a first control unit 702, and a second control unit 703.

[0086] The acquisition unit 701 is used to acquire the current operating environment parameters of the active antenna array; the first control unit 702 is used to control the multiple sub-calibration networks to perform intra-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays in combination with the current operating environment parameters; and the second control unit 703 is used to control the main calibration network and the multiple sub-calibration networks to perform inter-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays in combination with the current operating environment parameters.

[0087] In one embodiment of this application, the first control unit 702 is specifically configured to: for each sub-calibration network, query the calibration data storage of the sub-calibration network according to the current working environment parameters to obtain a query result; if the query result is that target historical calibration data matching the current working environment parameters is found, perform open-loop in-array calibration processing on the sub-array corresponding to the sub-calibration network according to the target historical calibration data; if the query result is that the target historical calibration data is not found, perform closed-loop in-array calibration processing on the sub-array corresponding to the sub-calibration network.

[0088] In one embodiment of this application, the target historical calibration data is historical calibration data in which the difference between the corresponding working environment parameters and the current working environment parameters meets the difference condition and is in a valid state.

[0089] In one embodiment of this application, the apparatus further includes a data update unit. The acquisition unit 701 is further configured to acquire, for each subarray, intra-array calibration data and inter-array calibration data of the subarray; the data update unit is configured to perform data update processing on the calibration data storage of the sub-calibration network corresponding to the subarray based on the intra-array calibration data and the inter-array calibration data.

[0090] The antenna calibration device of this application embodiment acquires the current operating environment parameters of the active antenna array; combines the current operating environment parameters to control multiple sub-calibration networks to perform intra-array calibration processing on multiple sub-arrays; and combines the current operating environment parameters to control the main calibration network and multiple sub-calibration networks to perform inter-array calibration processing on multiple sub-arrays. Thus, when there are too many transmit and receive channels in the antenna array, multiple sub-arrays in the antenna array can be calibrated in parallel, thereby shortening the calibration time, avoiding long-term occupation of the transmit and receive channels in the antenna array, improving the working efficiency of the antenna array, ensuring the communication performance of the antenna array, and avoiding affecting normal communication services.

[0091] The method and apparatus are based on the same concept of the application. Since the methods and apparatus solve problems in similar ways, the implementation of the apparatus and methods can refer to each other, and the repeated parts will not be described again.

[0092] It should be noted that the division of units in the embodiments of this application is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, other division methods may be used. Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated units described above can be implemented in hardware or as software functional units.

[0093] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a processor-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) or processor to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0094] On the other hand, embodiments of this application also provide a processor-readable storage medium storing a computer program for causing a processor to execute the antenna calibration method of this application.

[0095] The processor-readable storage medium can be any available medium or data storage device that the processor can access, including but not limited to magnetic storage (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, magneto-optical disk (MO)), optical storage (e.g., CD, DVD, BD, HVD), and semiconductor storage (e.g., ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, non-volatile memory (NAND FLASH), solid-state drive (SSD)).

[0096] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this application can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this application can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this application can take the form of a computer program product implemented on one or more computer-usable storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage and optical storage) containing computer-usable program code.

[0097] This application is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of this application. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer-executable instructions. These computer-executable instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, generate instructions for implementing the flowchart... Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0098] These processor-executable instructions may also be stored in a processor-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the processor-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means, which are implemented in a process Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The function specified in one or more boxes.

[0099] These processors can execute instructions that can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing device, causing a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable device to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable device for implementing the process. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 Figure 1 The steps of the function specified in one or more boxes.

[0100] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

[0101] It should be understood that the various forms of processes shown above can be used to rearrange, add, or delete steps. For example, the steps described in this application can be executed in parallel, sequentially, or in different orders, as long as the desired result of the technical solution disclosed in this application can be achieved, and this is not limited herein.

[0102] The specific embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this application. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. An antenna calibration system, characterized in that, The system includes: One main calibration network, and multiple sub-calibration networks; The multiple sub-calibration networks correspond one-to-one with multiple sub-arrays in the active antenna array and are used to perform in-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays. The main calibration network is connected to the plurality of sub-calibration networks and is used to perform inter-array calibration processing on the plurality of sub-arrays.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sub-calibration network includes a sub-array signal processing unit, a transmit calibration network, and a receive calibration network; The transmission calibration network is connected to the subarray signal processing unit and is used to perform intra-array calibration processing on the transmission subarray within the subarray corresponding to the subarray of the sub-calibration network. The receiving calibration network is connected to the subarray signal processing unit and is used to perform intra-array calibration processing on the receiving subarray within the subarray.

3. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The transmission calibration network includes a first coupling network, a first power divider network, and a first transmission calibration channel; The first coupling network is connected to the transmitter subarray and is used to couple multiple transmitter channels within the transmitter subarray to obtain a first coupling signal. The plurality of transmission channels are used to transmit and process the first calibration signal of the subarray signal processing unit. The first power divider network is used to perform multiple first coupled signals combining to obtain a first target signal, and to provide the first target signal to the subarray signal processing unit through the first calibration channel. The subarray signal processing unit performs intra-array calibration processing on the transmitting subarray based on the first calibration signal and the first target signal.

4. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The receiving calibration network includes a second coupling network, a second power divider network, and a first receiving calibration channel; The second power splitter network is used to receive the second calibration signal from the subarray signal processing unit through the first receiving calibration channel, and to perform splitting processing on the second calibration signal, and to provide the multiple first split signals obtained by the splitting processing to the second coupling network. The second coupling network is connected to the receiving subarray and is used to couple the plurality of first branch signals to the plurality of receiving channels of the receiving subarray; The subarray processing unit is used to perform in-array calibration processing on the receiving subarray based on the second target signal of multiple receiving channels within the receiving subarray and the second calibration signal.

5. The system according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, A first switching switch is provided between the first power divider network and the first transmission calibration channel; one end of the first switching switch is connected to the first power divider network; the other end of the first switching switch is connected to the first transmission calibration channel for performing intra-array calibration processing on the transmission subarray; or, the other end of the first switching switch is connected to a third power divider network for performing inter-array calibration processing on the transmission subarray. A second switching switch is provided between the second power divider network and the first receive calibration channel; one end of the second switching switch is connected to the second power divider network; the other end of the second switching switch is connected to the first receive calibration channel for performing intra-array calibration processing on the receive sub-array; or, the other end of the second switching switch is connected to a fourth power divider network for performing inter-array calibration processing on the receive sub-array.

6. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sub-calibration network further includes a calibration data storage connected to the sub-array signal processing unit; The calibration data memory stores calibration data and / or calibration data calculation functions for performing open-loop calibration on the sub-calibration network.

7. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The calibration data stored in the calibration data storage device is the historical calibration data of the sub-calibration network; The calibration data calculation function stored in the calibration data memory is obtained by fitting the historical calibration data of the sub-calibration network.

8. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main calibration network includes a main signal processing unit, a third power divider network, a second transmit calibration channel, a fourth power divider network, and a second receive calibration channel. The main signal processing unit is configured to provide a third calibration signal to the plurality of sub-calibration networks, and to obtain a third target signal from the plurality of sub-calibration networks through the second transmission calibration channel and the third power divider network; and to perform inter-array calibration processing on the transmission sub-arrays in the plurality of sub-arrays according to the third target signal and the third calibration signal. or, The main signal processing unit is configured to provide a fourth calibration signal to the plurality of sub-calibration networks through the second receive calibration channel and the fourth power divider network, and to obtain a fourth target signal from the plurality of sub-calibration networks; and to perform inter-array calibration processing on the receive sub-arrays in the plurality of sub-arrays according to the fourth target signal and the fourth calibration signal.

9. The system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The third power divider network is connected to the first power divider network among the plurality of sub-calibration networks through a first switching switch, and is used to acquire the third target signal; The fourth power divider network is connected to the second power divider network among the plurality of sub-calibration networks via a second switching switch, and is used to send the fourth calibration signal.

10. An antenna calibration method, characterized in that, The method is applied to an antenna calibration system, which includes a main calibration network and multiple sub-calibration networks corresponding one-to-one with multiple sub-arrays in an active antenna array; the method includes: Obtain the current operating environment parameters of the active antenna array; Based on the current working environment parameters, the multiple sub-calibration networks are controlled to perform intra-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays; Based on the current working environment parameters, the main calibration network and the multiple sub-calibration networks are controlled to perform inter-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The step of controlling the multiple sub-calibration networks to perform intra-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays in conjunction with the current working environment parameters includes: For each sub-calibration network, the calibration data storage of the sub-calibration network is queried according to the current working environment parameters to obtain the query results; If the query result is that target historical calibration data matching the current working environment parameters is found, open-loop array calibration processing is performed on the subarray corresponding to the sub-calibration network based on the target historical calibration data. If the query result indicates that no historical calibration data for the target is found, closed-loop in-array calibration processing is performed on the subarray corresponding to the sub-calibration network.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The target historical calibration data refers to the historical calibration data in which the difference between the corresponding working environment parameters and the current working environment parameters meets the difference condition and is in a valid state.

13. The method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The method further includes: For each subarray, obtain the intra-array calibration data and inter-array calibration data of the subarray; Based on the intra-array calibration data and the inter-array calibration data, the calibration data memory of the sub-calibration network corresponding to the sub-array is updated.

14. An apparatus, characterized in that, Includes memory, transceiver, and processor: A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations: Obtain the current operating environment parameters of the active antenna array; Based on the current working environment parameters, the multiple sub-calibration networks are controlled to perform intra-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays; Based on the current working environment parameters, the main calibration network and the multiple sub-calibration networks are controlled to perform inter-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays.

15. The apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that, The step of controlling the multiple sub-calibration networks to perform intra-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays in conjunction with the current working environment parameters specifically includes: For each sub-calibration network, the calibration data storage of the sub-calibration network is queried according to the current working environment parameters to obtain the query results; If the query result is that target historical calibration data matching the current working environment parameters is found, open-loop array calibration processing is performed on the subarray corresponding to the sub-calibration network based on the target historical calibration data. If the query result indicates that no historical calibration data for the target is found, closed-loop in-array calibration processing is performed on the subarray corresponding to the sub-calibration network.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The target historical calibration data refers to the historical calibration data in which the difference between the corresponding working environment parameters and the current working environment parameters meets the difference condition and is in a valid state.

17. The method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that, The processor is also configured to read the computer program in the memory and perform the following operations: For each subarray, obtain the intra-array calibration data and inter-array calibration data of the subarray; Based on the intra-array calibration data and the inter-array calibration data, the calibration data memory of the sub-calibration network corresponding to the sub-array is updated.

18. An antenna calibration device, characterized in that, An antenna calibration system is used, the antenna calibration system including a main calibration network and multiple sub-calibration networks corresponding one-to-one with multiple sub-arrays in an active antenna array; the device includes: The acquisition unit is used to acquire the current operating environment parameters of the active antenna array; The first control unit is used to control the multiple sub-calibration networks to perform intra-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays in combination with the current working environment parameters; The second control unit is used to control the main calibration network and the multiple sub-calibration networks to perform inter-array calibration processing on the multiple sub-arrays in combination with the current working environment parameters.

19. A processor-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The processor-readable storage medium stores a computer program for causing the processor to perform the method of any one of claims 10 to 13.

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