Signal processing system and related device

Abstract

A signal processing system and a related device are applied to the technical field of signal processing. The signal processing system comprises a first beam splitting unit, a second beam splitting unit, a third beam splitting unit, a first phase shifting unit and at least two signal processing units, wherein the at least two signal processing units comprise a first signal processing unit and a second signal processing unit; the first phase shift unit is used for performing phase shift processing on the second signal to obtain a third signal; the third beam splitting unit is used for splitting the third signal into P paths of sub-signals, and the P paths of sub-signals are respectively input into P input ports of the second signal processing unit; the N output ports of the first signal processing unit and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit are arranged in a crossed manner. The signal processing system can utilize a plurality of signal processing units with relatively low complexity to realize the function of a single signal processing unit with relatively high complexity, so that the number of components and a line cross structure are reduced, the structural complexity of the signal processing system is reduced, and the signal quality is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of signal processing technology, and in particular to a signal processing system and related devices. Background Art

[0002] Multi-beamforming networks are widely used in various fields, such as wireless networks for mobile communications, microwave radars, lidars, etc. They can form a certain number of beams and can individually select and switch parameters such as the transmitted beam angle.

[0003] Among them, the Butler matrix is ​​a commonly used structure for multi-beam forming networks. The multi-beam network designed based on this matrix has many advantages such as low cost, simple structure, and easy engineering implementation. The Butler matrix is ​​mainly composed of multiple couplers and fixed phase shifters to form an M×N matrix, that is, there are M input ports and N output ports, and generally M=N. For the M input ports, the input of the signal at different ports will produce different phase difference arrangements at the N output ports, resulting in transmission beams with different directions. By switching the input port of the signal, the beam direction can be changed, thereby achieving a scanning effect.

[0004] However, a high-order Butler matrix has a large number of components and a large number of cross structures of connecting lines, which results in a high structural complexity of the matrix and severe signal crosstalk and loss. Summary of the invention

[0005] The embodiments of the present application provide a signal processing system and related devices, which can utilize multiple low-order Butler matrices to implement the functions of a high-order Butler matrix, while reducing the number of components and line crossing structure, reducing the structural complexity of the matrix, and improving signal quality.

[0006] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a signal processing system, the signal processing system comprising:

[0007] a first beam splitting unit, a second beam splitting unit, a third beam splitting unit, a first phase shifting unit, and at least two signal processing units, wherein the at least two signal processing units include a first signal processing unit having M input ports and N output ports and a second signal processing unit having P input ports and Q output ports; wherein:

[0008] The first beam splitting unit is used to split one signal into at least two signals, wherein the at least two signals include a first signal and a second signal;

[0009] The second beam splitting unit is used to split the first signal into M sub-signals, and the M sub-signals are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit;

[0010] The first phase shift unit is used to perform phase shift processing on the second signal to obtain a third signal;

[0011] The third beam splitting unit is used to split the third signal into P sub-signals, and the P sub-signals are respectively input into the P input ports of the second signal processing unit;

[0012] The N output ports of the first signal processing unit and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit are arranged crosswise, and the M, the N, the P, and the Q are integers greater than or equal to 2.

[0013] In an embodiment of the present application, a signal processing system is provided, in which an input signal of a first signal processing unit and an input signal of a second signal processing unit in the signal processing system are derived from the splitting of the same signal path, and a phase shift process is performed on the input signal of one of the signal processing units (the second signal processing unit), and an output port of the first signal processing unit and an output port of the second signal processing unit are cross-arranged, and by phase adjustment of the input signal of the second signal processing unit, the output port of the first signal processing unit and the output port of the second signal processing unit can output signals with a variety of phase differences, and superimpose in far-field interference to form a variety of correspondingly directed beams.

[0014] Compared with a solution in which a single signal processing unit with higher complexity outputs signals to form a variety of directional beams in the far field, in an embodiment of the present application, at least two signal processing units with lower complexity output signals with a variety of phase differences, thereby forming a variety of corresponding directional beams in the far field, which can achieve the same number of directional beams as a single signal processing unit with higher complexity. Moreover, compared with the internal structure of a single signal processing unit with higher complexity, the embodiment of the present application uses at least two signal processing units with lower complexity, which can reduce the number of components and line crossing structure of the signal processing unit, reduce the structural complexity of the signal processing system, and improve the signal quality.

[0015] Optionally, the N output ports of the first signal processing unit and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit are cross-arranged and arranged on the same straight line.

[0016] Through the embodiments of the present application, the signals with various phase differences generated by the output port of the first signal processing unit and the output port of the second signal processing unit can be superimposed in the far field to form beams with various corresponding directions, thereby improving the interference superposition effect in the far field.

[0017] In a possible implementation manner, the phase differences of signals output by any two groups of adjacent ports among the N cross-arranged output ports and the Q output ports are the same.

[0018] In an embodiment of the present application, a possible specific implementation method of outputting signals from N output ports and Q output ports is provided, specifically, the phase difference of signals output by any two groups of adjacent ports among the cross-arranged N output ports and Q output ports is the same, and there are two phase values ​​under each phase difference, that is, adjusting the first phase shifting unit can obtain beams with multiple directions, which is twice the number of beam directions formed by a single signal processing unit with the same complexity.

[0019] In a possible implementation, the signal processing system further includes:

[0020] a first switch array and a second switch array;

[0021] The first switch array is used to control the on or off of the M-path signals;

[0022] The second switch array is used to control the on or off of the P path signal.

[0023] In an embodiment of the present application, a possible specific implementation of a signal processing system is provided, specifically, the signal processing system also includes a first switch array and a second switch array, the first switch array is used to control the conduction or disconnection of the M-path signal input to the first signal processing unit, and the second switch array is used to control the conduction or disconnection of the P-path signal input to the second signal processing unit. Through the first switch array and the second switch array in the embodiment of the present application, the corresponding input ports of the first signal processing unit and the second signal processing unit can be controlled to simultaneously input the same source signal to ensure the consistency of the signal wavelength, thereby satisfying the interference superposition condition of the transmission beams of the first signal processing unit and the second signal processing unit in the far field.

[0024] In a possible implementation manner, the first signal processing unit and / or the second signal processing unit is at least one of the following in a matrix including a coupler and a phase shifter:

[0025] Butler matrix, Noren matrix, Blass matrix.

[0026] In the implementation manner of the present application, possible specific implementation manners of the first signal processing unit and / or the second signal processing unit are provided, specifically, the first signal processing unit and / or the second signal processing unit may be a Butler matrix and / or a Noren matrix and / or a Blass matrix including a coupler and a phase shifter. It is understandable that the first signal processing unit and / or the second signal processing unit in the implementation manner of the present application only need to be a matrix structure that can form a multi-directional beam.

[0027] Optionally, when the first signal processing unit and the second signal processing unit are Butler matrices including a coupler and a phase shifter, the input signal of the first Butler matrix and the input signal of the second Butler matrix in the signal processing system are derived from the splitting of the same signal, and the input signal of one of the Butler matrices (the second Butler matrix) is phase shifted, and the output port of the first Butler matrix and the output port of the second Butler matrix are cross-arranged. By phase adjusting the input signal of the second Butler matrix, the output port of the first Butler matrix and the output port of the second Butler matrix can output signals with multiple phase differences, and superimpose in the far field interference to form multiple correspondingly directed beams.

[0028] Compared with the solution of forming multiple directional beams in the far field by outputting signals through a single high-order Butler matrix, the embodiment of the present application outputs signals with multiple phase differences through at least two low-order Butler matrices, thereby forming multiple corresponding directional beams in the far field, which can achieve the same number of directional beams as a single high-order Butler matrix. In addition, compared with the internal structure of a single high-order Butler matrix, the embodiment of the present application uses at least two low-order Butler matrices, which can reduce the number of components (couplers and phase shifters) and line cross-structure of the Butler matrix, reduce the structural complexity of the signal processing system, and improve signal quality.

[0029] In a possible implementation manner, when the M, the N, the P, and the Q are the same, the number of couplers in the at least two signal processing units is:

[0030] Nlog2N or 2 n n;

[0031] Where N = 2 n , wherein n is a positive integer.

[0032] In the embodiment of the present application, a possible specific implementation of the coupler in at least two signal processing units is provided, specifically, when the above M, N, P, Q are all the same, the number of couplers in the combination matrix composed of two N*N low-order single matrices is Nlog2N or 2 n n, and its corresponding high-order matrix is ​​a (2N)*(2N) single matrix. The number of couplers in this (2N)*(2N) high-order single matrix is It can be seen that the combined matrix composed of two N*N low-order single matrices can greatly reduce the number of matrix components (including but not limited to couplers) while ensuring the same number of directed beam effects as one (2N)*(2N) high-order single matrix, thereby solving the problems of large number of components, high cost and difficult implementation of conventional high-order single matrices.

[0033] In a possible implementation manner, when the M, the N, the P, and the Q are the same, the number of phase shifters in the at least two signal processing units is:

[0034] N(log2N-1) or 2 n (n-1);

[0035] Where N = 2 n , wherein n is a positive integer.

[0036] In an embodiment of the present application, a possible specific implementation of the phase shifter in at least two signal processing units is provided. Specifically, when the above M, N, P, and Q are all the same, the number of phase shifters in the combined matrix composed of two N*N low-order single matrices is N(log2N-1) or 2 n (n-1), and its corresponding high-order matrix is ​​a (2N)*(2N) single matrix. The number of fixed phase shifters in the (2N)*(2N) high-order single matrix is It can be seen that the combined matrix composed of two N*N low-order single matrices can greatly reduce the number of matrix components (including but not limited to phase shifters) while ensuring the same number of directed beam effects as one (2N)*(2N) high-order single matrix, thereby solving the problems of large number of components, high cost and difficult implementation of conventional high-order single matrices.

[0037] In a possible implementation manner, when the M, the N, the P, and the Q are the same, the number of crossover points in the at least two signal processing units is:

[0038]

[0039] Where N = 2 n , wherein n is a positive integer.

[0040] In an embodiment of the present application, a possible specific implementation of the crosspoints in at least two signal processing units is provided, specifically, when the above M, N, P, and Q are all the same, in the case of n=1 (i.e., N=2), the number of crosspoints in the combined matrix composed of two N*N low-order single matrices is 0, and the corresponding high-order matrix is ​​a (2N)*(2N) single matrix, and the number of crosspoints in the (2N)*(2N) high-order single matrix is ​​2. In the case of n=2 (i.e., N=4), the number of crosspoints in the combined matrix composed of two N*N low-order single matrices is 4, and the corresponding high-order matrix is ​​a (2N)*(2N) single matrix, and the number of crosspoints in the (2N)*(2N) high-order single matrix is When n≥3, the number of intersections in the combined matrix composed of two N*N low-order single matrices is The corresponding high-order matrix is ​​a (2N)*(2N) single matrix. The number of crossover points in the (2N)*(2N) high-order single matrix is It can be seen that the combined matrix composed of two N*N low-order single matrices can greatly reduce the number of crossover points in the matrix (i.e., the crossover of lines or signals in the matrix) while ensuring the same number of directed beam effects as a (2N)*(2N) high-order single matrix, thereby solving the problems of high loss and large crosstalk caused by a large number of crossovers in conventional high-order single matrices, improving signal quality, and reducing the difficulty of implementing the signal processing system.

[0041] In a possible implementation manner, the signal processing system further includes a multiplexer;

[0042] The multiplexer is used to combine multiple signals with different wavelengths into one signal and transmit it to the first beam splitting unit;

[0043] Among them, the M sub-signals corresponding to the signals of each type of wavelength contained in the first signal are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit, and the P sub-signals corresponding to the signals of each type of wavelength contained in the third signal are respectively input into the P input ports of the second signal processing unit.

[0044] In an embodiment of the present application, a possible specific implementation of a signal processing system is provided, specifically, the signal processing system may also include a multiplexer, which is used to combine multiple signals with different wavelengths into one signal and transmit it to the first beam splitting unit, thereby realizing multi-wavelength beam transmission using a combination matrix composed of at least two signal processing units. By selecting the wavelength of the transmission beam, different wavelengths have different directions and can be used in different receiving terminals and communication networks with different frequencies.

[0045] Optionally, after the first signal is split by the second beam splitting unit, the M paths of sub-signals corresponding to the signals of each type of wavelength contained in the first signal are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit; after the third signal is split by the third beam splitting unit, the P paths of sub-signals corresponding to the signals of each type of wavelength contained in the third signal are respectively input into the P input ports of the second signal processing unit.

[0046] In a possible implementation, the second beam splitting unit includes a first demultiplexer, the third beam splitting unit includes a second demultiplexer, and the signal processing system further includes a multiplexer;

[0047] The multiplexer is used to combine multiple signals with different wavelengths into one signal and transmit it to the first beam splitting unit;

[0048] The first demultiplexer is used to separate the first signal according to wavelength categories;

[0049] The second demultiplexer is used to separate the third signal according to wavelength categories;

[0050] The signals of various wavelengths included in the first signal are respectively input to the input port of the first signal processing unit, and the signals of various wavelengths included in the third signal are respectively input to the input port of the second signal processing unit.

[0051] In an embodiment of the present application, a possible specific implementation of a signal processing system is provided, specifically, the signal processing system may also include a multiplexer, and accordingly, the second beam splitting unit in the signal processing system may specifically include a first demultiplexer, and the third beam splitting unit in the signal processing system may specifically include a second demultiplexer. The multiplexer in the signal processing system is used to combine multiple signals with different wavelengths into one signal and transmit it to the first beam splitting unit. Accordingly, the first demultiplexer is used to separate the first signal according to the wavelength category, and the second demultiplexer is used to separate the third signal according to the wavelength category, thereby achieving multi-wavelength beam transmission using a combination matrix composed of at least two signal processing units. By selecting the wavelength of the transmission beam, different wavelengths have different directions, which can be used for communication networks with different receiving terminals and different frequencies.

[0052] Optionally, after the first signal is separated by wavelength category through the first demultiplexer, the signals of each wavelength contained in the first signal are respectively input into the input port of the first signal processing unit; after the third signal is separated by wavelength category through the second demultiplexer, the signals of each wavelength contained in the third signal are respectively input into the input port of the second signal processing unit.

[0053] Optionally, in this case, the first switch array and the second switch array in the above-mentioned signal processing system are non-essential devices. It can be understood that the signal processing system may only include a switch array for controlling various types of wavelength inputs, or may only include the first switch array and the second switch array, or may simultaneously include a switch array for controlling various types of wavelength inputs, a first switch array, and a second switch array, and the embodiment of the present application does not limit this. When the above-mentioned switch arrays are not included in the signal processing system, the number of input wavelength categories is a fixed value and cannot be adjusted according to different scenarios.

[0054] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a signal processing system, the signal processing system comprising:

[0055] a first beam splitting unit, a second beam splitting unit, a fourth beam splitting unit, a second phase shifting unit, and at least two signal processing units, wherein the at least two signal processing units include a first signal processing unit having M input ports and N output ports and a second signal processing unit having P input ports and Q output ports; wherein:

[0056] The first beam splitting unit is used to split one signal into at least two signals, wherein the at least two signals include a first signal and a second signal;

[0057] The second beam splitting unit is used to split the first signal into M sub-signals, and the M sub-signals are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit;

[0058] The fourth beam splitting unit is used to split the second signal into 2P path signals;

[0059] The second phase shift unit is used to perform phase shift processing on the 2P path signal, and the 2P path signal after phase shift is respectively coupled to the P input ports of the second signal processing unit by switch control;

[0060] Alternatively, the 2P path signal is transmitted to the second phase shift unit through switch control, and the second phase shift unit is used to perform phase shift processing on the 2P path signal, and the 2P path signal after phase shift is respectively coupled to P input ports of the second signal processing unit;

[0061] The N output ports of the first signal processing unit and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit are arranged crosswise, and the M, the N, the P, and the Q are integers greater than or equal to 2.

[0062] In an embodiment of the present application, a signal processing system is provided, in which an input signal of a first signal processing unit and an input signal of a second signal processing unit in the signal processing system are derived from the splitting of a same signal path, and the input signal of one of the signal processing units (the second signal processing unit) is first split and then phase-shifted, and the output port of the first signal processing unit and the output port of the second signal processing unit are cross-arranged, and the input signal of the second signal processing unit is first split and then phase-shifted by setting a plurality of fixed phase shifters with different phase shift amounts, so that the output port of the first signal processing unit and the output port of the second signal processing unit can output signals with a variety of phase differences, and form a variety of correspondingly directed beams by superposition in far-field interference.

[0063] Compared with a solution in which a single signal processing unit with higher complexity outputs signals to form a variety of directional beams in the far field, in an embodiment of the present application, at least two signal processing units with lower complexity output signals with a variety of phase differences, thereby forming a variety of corresponding directional beams in the far field, which can achieve the same number of directional beams as a single signal processing unit with higher complexity. Moreover, compared with the internal structure of a single signal processing unit with higher complexity, the embodiment of the present application uses at least two signal processing units with lower complexity, which can reduce the number of components and line crossing structure of the signal processing unit, reduce the structural complexity of the signal processing system, and improve the signal quality.

[0064] Compared with the solution of first phase shifting and then splitting the input signal of the second signal processing unit through an adjustable phase shifter, in the embodiment of the present application, the input signal of the second signal processing unit is first split and then phase shifted through multiple fixed phase shifters, thereby forming a signal processing system that can output signals with multiple phase differences and form multiple corresponding directional beams through far-field interference superposition with only switch control, and is easy to operate.

[0065] Optionally, the N output ports of the first signal processing unit and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit are cross-arranged and arranged on the same straight line.

[0066] Through the embodiments of the present application, the signals with various phase differences generated by the output port of the first signal processing unit and the output port of the second signal processing unit can be superimposed in the far field to form beams with various corresponding directions, thereby improving the interference superposition effect in the far field.

[0067] In a possible implementation manner, the phase differences of signals output by any two groups of adjacent ports among the N cross-arranged output ports and the Q output ports are the same.

[0068] In a possible implementation, the signal processing system further includes:

[0069] a first switch array and a second switch array;

[0070] The first switch array is used to control the on or off of the M-path signals;

[0071] The second switch array is used to control the on or off of the 2P path signal.

[0072] In a possible implementation manner, the first signal processing unit and / or the second signal processing unit is at least one of the following in a matrix including a coupler and a phase shifter:

[0073] Butler matrix, Noren matrix, Blass matrix.

[0074] In a possible implementation manner, when the M, the N, the P, and the Q are the same, the number of couplers in the at least two signal processing units is:

[0075] Nlog2N or 2 n n;

[0076] Where N = 2 n , wherein n is a positive integer.

[0077] In a possible implementation manner, when the M, the N, the P, and the Q are the same, the number of phase shifters in the at least two signal processing units is:

[0078] N(log2N-1) or 2 n (n-1);

[0079] Where N = 2 n , wherein n is a positive integer.

[0080] In a possible implementation manner, when the M, the N, the P, and the Q are the same, the number of crossover points in the at least two signal processing units is:

[0081]

[0082] Where N = 2 n , wherein n is a positive integer.

[0083] It can be understood that for the technical effects corresponding to any possible implementation of the second aspect, reference can be made to the description of the corresponding implementation in the above-mentioned first aspect.

[0084] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a signal processing device, which includes at least two signal processing systems as described in any one of the first to second aspects above and any possible implementation methods thereof, wherein the input signals of the at least two signal processing systems originate from the splitting of the same signal path.

[0085] In an embodiment of the present application, a signal processing device is provided, the signal processing device comprising at least two signal processing systems as described in any one of the first to second aspects and any possible implementations thereof, and the input signals of the at least two signal processing systems are derived from the split beams of the same signal. Through the embodiment of the present application, the signal processing system described in any one of the first to second aspects and any possible implementations thereof can be expanded and arranged to obtain more beams, thereby achieving the effect of a multi-beam laser radar.

[0086] In a fourth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a signal processing device, which includes at least two signal processing systems as described in any one of the first to second aspects above and any possible implementations thereof, wherein the at least two signal processing systems are arranged in two dimensions.

[0087] In an embodiment of the present application, a signal processing device is provided, the signal processing device comprising at least two signal processing systems as described in any one of the first aspect to the second aspect and any possible implementation manner thereof, and the at least two signal processing systems are arranged in a two-dimensional direction. Through the embodiment of the present application, the signal processing systems described in any one of the first aspect to the second aspect and any possible implementation manner thereof can be extended and arranged in a two-dimensional direction, and the extendedly arranged signal processing systems are independent of each other, and multiple beams can be obtained at the same time, thereby increasing the number of beams of the signal processing device.

[0088] In a fifth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a chip, which includes the signal processing system described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or includes the signal processing system described in the second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect, or includes the signal processing device described in the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect, or includes the signal processing device described in the fourth aspect or any possible implementation of the fourth aspect.

[0089] In a sixth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a radar or a radar system, which radar or radar system includes the signal processing system described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or includes the signal processing system described in the second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect, or includes the signal processing device described in the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect, or includes the signal processing device described in the fourth aspect or any possible implementation of the fourth aspect, or includes the chip described in the fifth aspect.

[0090] In a possible implementation, the radar includes but is not limited to millimeter wave radar, laser radar, etc.

[0091] In a possible implementation, there may be a smart sensor integrating multiple sensors. When the smart sensor includes but is not limited to a millimeter wave detection function, a laser detection function, etc., the smart sensor may also be referred to as a radar or a radar system.

[0092] In the seventh aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a terminal device, which includes the signal processing system described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or includes the signal processing system described in the second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect, or includes the signal processing device described in the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect, or includes the signal processing device described in the fourth aspect or any possible implementation of the fourth aspect, or includes the chip described in the fifth aspect, or includes the radar or radar system described in the sixth aspect.

[0093] In the eighth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a vehicle side, which includes the signal processing system described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or includes the signal processing system described in the second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect, or includes the signal processing device described in the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect, or includes the signal processing device described in the fourth aspect or any possible implementation of the fourth aspect, or includes the chip described in the fifth aspect, or includes the radar or radar system described in the sixth aspect, or includes the terminal device described in the seventh aspect.

[0094] The embodiments of the present application can utilize multiple signal processing units with lower complexity to implement the functions of a single signal processing unit with higher complexity, while reducing the number of components and line crossing structure, reducing the structural complexity of the signal processing system, and improving signal quality. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0095] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the drawings required for use in the embodiments of the present application will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative work.

[0096] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of radar distribution provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0097] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the architecture of a radar provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0098] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the architecture of a radar provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0099] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the architecture of a radar provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0100] Figure 5AA schematic diagram of the structure of a Butler matrix provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0101] Figure 5B A schematic diagram of the structure of a Butler matrix provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0102] Figure 5C A schematic diagram of the structure of a Butler matrix provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0103] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a signal processing system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0104] Fig. 7A A schematic diagram of the structure of a Butler matrix provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0105] Figure 7B A schematic diagram of the structure of a Butler matrix provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0106] Figure 7C A schematic diagram of the structure of a Butler matrix provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0107] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a beamforming effect provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0108] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of the structure of a signal processing system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0109] Fig. 10A A schematic diagram of the structure of a signal processing system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0110] Fig. 10B A schematic diagram of the structure of a signal processing system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0111] Fig.11 A schematic diagram of the structure of a signal processing system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0112] Fig.12 A schematic diagram of the structure of a signal processing system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0113] Fig.13 A schematic diagram of the structure of a signal processing device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0114] Fig.14 A schematic diagram of a far-field light field effect provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0115] Fig.15 A schematic diagram of the structure of a signal processing device provided in an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0116] In order to make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the present application clearer, the embodiments of the present application will be described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application.

[0117] The terms "first" and "second" in the specification, claims and drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order. In addition, the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions. For example, a process, method, system, product or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units that are not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units that are inherent to these processes, methods, products or devices.

[0118] The "embodiment" mentioned in this article means that the specific features, structures or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of the present application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It can be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that in the various embodiments of the present application, if there is no special explanation and logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions between the various embodiments are consistent and can be referenced to each other, and the technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationships.

[0119] It should be understood that in the present application, "at least one (item)" means one or more, "more than one" means two or more, "at least two (items)" means two or three and more than three, and "and / or" is used to describe the association relationship of associated objects, indicating that three relationships may exist. For example, "A and / or B" can mean: only A exists, only B exists, and A and B exist at the same time, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the previous and next associated objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following items" or similar expressions refers to any combination of these items, including any combination of single items or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b or c can mean: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, c can be single or multiple.

[0120] As described in the background technology section, the current high-order Butler matrix in the multi-beam forming network has a large number of components and a large number of cross structures of connecting lines, resulting in a high structural complexity of the matrix, and serious signal crosstalk and loss. The present application provides a signal processing system and related devices, which relate to the field of signal processing technology and can be applied to laser radar complete machines or structural components, millimeter wave radar complete machines or structural components, beam transmission products of wireless communication equipment, multi-channel laser transmission modules in optical communications, etc. The functions of a high-order Butler matrix are realized by using multiple low-order Butler matrices, while reducing the number of components and the cross structure of the lines, reducing the structural complexity of the matrix, and improving the signal quality.

[0121] In order to more clearly describe the solution of the present application, some knowledge related to radar and Butler matrix is ​​first introduced below.

[0122] Radar is the transliteration of the English word Radar, which is derived from the abbreviation of "radio detection and ranging", meaning "radio detection and ranging". It uses radio methods to detect targets and determine the spatial position of the target.

[0123] The detection medium of radar is electromagnetic waves. It uses the emission and reception of electromagnetic waves to detect targets, for example, distance measurement, speed measurement, or azimuth measurement. Radar can measure the distance of targets based on the flight time of electromagnetic waves. The flight time is the time difference between the transmission and reception of electromagnetic waves. The radar transmits an electromagnetic wave signal and receives the echo signal of the electromagnetic wave signal. The distance of the target can be measured based on the time difference between the received echo signal and the transmitted electromagnetic wave signal and the propagation speed of the electromagnetic wave. The distance between the radar and the target can be determined based on the following formula: s = c*t / 2, where s is the distance of the target, t is the flight time, that is, the time from the electromagnetic wave signal being emitted by the radar to the echo signal being received, and c is the speed of light.

[0124] Radar measures the speed of a target based on the Doppler effect. The principle of the Doppler effect is as follows: when a vibration source such as sound, light, and radio waves moves relative to an observer at a relative speed, the vibration frequency received by the observer is different from the frequency emitted by the vibration source. When the electromagnetic waves emitted by the radar and the detected target move relative to each other, the frequency of the echo signal will be different from the frequency of the emitted electromagnetic wave signal. When the target approaches the radar antenna, the frequency of the echo signal will be higher than the frequency of the emitted electromagnetic wave signal; conversely, when the target moves away from the radar antenna, the frequency of the echo signal will be lower than the frequency of the emitted electromagnetic wave signal. The frequency change caused by the Doppler effect is called the Doppler shift, which is proportional to the relative speed and inversely proportional to the vibration frequency. Therefore, by detecting the frequency difference between the emitted electromagnetic wave signal and the echo signal, the moving speed of the target relative to the radar, that is, the relative speed between the target and the radar, can be measured.

[0125] Radar can use amplitude method, phase method and other methods to measure azimuth. The amplitude method uses the amplitude value of the echo signal received by the antenna to measure the angle. The changing pattern of the amplitude value depends on the antenna radiation pattern and the antenna scanning method. The phase method uses the phase difference between the echo signals received by multiple antenna units to measure the angle. For example, the radar receives the echo signal reflected by the same target through the antenna array, and calculates the azimuth of the target based on the phase difference of the echo signal.

[0126] The detection medium of millimeter wave radar is electromagnetic waves within a certain wavelength range, such as microwaves. Currently, millimeter waves and centimeter waves adjacent to millimeter wave bands (for example, centimeter waves in the 24GHz band) are more commonly used. Millimeter waves are electromagnetic waves with a wavelength of 1 to 10 millimeters (mm), and the wavelength of electromagnetic waves in the 24GHz band is slightly greater than 10mm. Since the wavelength of the detection medium of millimeter wave radar is in the wavelength range where microwaves and far infrared waves overlap, it has the characteristics of both spectra. According to the wave propagation theory, the higher the frequency, the shorter the wavelength, the higher the resolution, the stronger the penetration ability, but the greater the loss in the propagation process, and the shorter the transmission distance; relatively, the lower the frequency, the longer the wavelength, the stronger the diffraction ability, and the longer the transmission distance. Therefore, compared with microwaves, the detection medium of millimeter wave radar has high resolution, good directivity, strong anti-interference ability and good detection performance. Compared with infrared, the detection medium of millimeter wave radar has low atmospheric attenuation, better penetration of smoke and dust, and is less affected by weather. Therefore, millimeter-wave radar has been increasingly widely used in many fields such as smart vehicles, drones, smart transportation, and industrial automation.

[0127] The detection medium of laser radar is frequency modulated continuous wave, which uses frequency modulated continuous light for target detection. At the transmitting end, the coherent laser radar generates frequency modulated continuous light, part of which is transmitted to the mixer as the local oscillator signal, and part is emitted into the field of view for detection. The frequency modulated continuous light emitted into the field of view is reflected by the target in the field of view to form an echo. The echo propagates back to the receiving end of the coherent laser radar and is received as the return signal light. The return signal light is transmitted to the mixer and mixed with the local oscillator signal light to obtain the intermediate frequency signal. The intermediate frequency signal is processed to obtain information such as the relative distance, speed, angle, or reflectivity between the target and the coherent laser radar. Laser radar can also detect based on the time of flight (TOF) principle. The laser emits a laser pulse, and the time of emission is recorded by the timer. The reflected light passing through the target is received by the receiver, and the timer records the return time. Subtracting the two times gives the "flight time" of light. Based on physical quantities including but not limited to the "flight time", the speed of light, and the intensity of the echo, we can get information such as the relative distance, speed, angle, or reflectivity between the target and the laser radar. Laser radar has been increasingly widely used in many fields such as smart vehicles, drones, smart transportation, and industrial automation due to its high resolution, good concealment, and accurate ranging.

[0128] Radar can be divided into long range radar (LRR), mid / medium range radar (MRR) and short range radar (SRR) according to the distance of its detection distance. LRR has higher requirements for detection distance, but relatively lower requirements for detection angular width. SRR has relatively lower requirements for detection distance, but higher requirements for detection angular width. MRR's requirements for detection distance and angular width can be understood as between LRR and SRR. For example, the detection distance of LRR can reach more than 200 meters, and the angular width can be ±15°; the detection distance of MRR can be within 100 meters, and the angular width can be ±45°; the detection distance of SRR can be within 60 meters, and the angular width can be ±80°. In use, different types of Radar can be installed at different positions of the vehicle body according to the functional requirements of autonomous driving and the use of other sensors. The number and type of Radar can be selected as needed.

[0129] See also Figure 1 , Figure 1 A schematic diagram of radar distribution provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0130] Figure 1Possible installation locations of several types of Radar are given, which are only examples. In actual use, more or less numbers of Radars can be selected, and the types can also be adjusted.

[0131] like Figure 1 As shown, LRR can be installed in front of the vehicle body as a forward radar; MRR can be installed in front of and behind the vehicle body as a forward radar and a rear radar; SRR can be installed on the side of the vehicle body or at the four corners of the vehicle body as a side radar and a corner radar. In addition, MRR can also be installed on the side of the vehicle body or at the four corners of the vehicle body, and SRR can also be installed in front of or behind the vehicle body.

[0132] Radar can be classified according to the modulation method (or radiation method) of its electromagnetic wave. The modulation method of Radar's electromagnetic wave includes pulse method and continuous wave method, so Radar can be divided into pulse radar and continuous wave radar. The continuous wave method can be further divided into frequency shift keying (FSK), phase shift keying (PSK), constant frequency / single frequency continuous wave (continuous wave CW), frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW), multiple frequency shift keying (MFSK), phase modulated continuous wave (PMCW) and other methods. FMCW has become the mainstream radar modulation method because it can detect multiple targets, has high resolution and low cost.

[0133] See also Figure 2 , Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the architecture of a radar provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0134] like Figure 2As shown, the Radar includes a control circuit 110, a signal generator 120, a power amplifier (PA) 130, a low noise amplifier (LNA) 140, a mixer 150, a filter 160, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 170, and a signal processor 180. The signal processor is usually used to process digital signals, such as a digital signal processor (DSP). The signal generator 120 generates an electromagnetic wave signal (also called a radar signal) waveform under the control of the control circuit 110. For example, a Radar using FMCW modulation generates a sawtooth wave or a triangle wave under the control of the control circuit 110. The signal generator 120 is, for example, a voltage-controlled oscillator, and the control circuit 110 is used to generate a control voltage. The generated electromagnetic wave signal waveform is modulated to a desired frequency band, such as between 76 GHz and 77 GHz, and after being amplified by the PA 130, it is radiated into space through a transmitting antenna (TX).

[0135] The electromagnetic wave signal radiated by the transmitting antenna is reflected into space after irradiating the target, and is received by the receiving antenna (RX) of the Radar. After being amplified by the LNA 140, it is mixed with the reference signal by the mixer 150. The reference signal can usually use the electromagnetic wave signal generated above. After being filtered by the filter 160, the mixer 150 can obtain an analog baseband signal, which is sampled by the ADC 170 to obtain a digital baseband signal. The digital baseband signal is processed in the signal processor 180 to obtain the distance, speed, and angle information of the target. In addition, the obtained information can be used for clustering and / or tracking, etc., to further obtain the trajectory, size, type and other information of the target.

[0136] The various components of the above Radar can be integrated as needed to achieve miniaturization of the radar. For example, the control circuit 110, the signal generator 120, the power amplifier (PA) 130, the low noise amplifier (LNA) 140, the mixer 150, the filter 160, the analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 170 and other components can be integrated on at least one chip, for example, integrated into a monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC).

[0137] For details, please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 3A schematic diagram of the architecture of a radar provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0138] like Figure 3 As shown, the Radar includes MMIC, a microcontroller unit (MCU), and a power management integrated circuit (PMIC). The MMIC can integrate the functions of the radio frequency part, and the MCU can integrate the functions of the above baseband part, such as integrating the functions of the above signal processor. In addition, it can also provide a communication interface for communicating with other on-board devices. The PMIC is a chip that supplies power to the radar hardware system.

[0139] See also Figure 4 , Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the architecture of a radar provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0140] like Figure 4 As shown, the radar includes an optical chip, and optionally includes modules such as a laser, an optical system, a receiver, a receiving signal processing unit, a scanning system, a feedback signal receiver, a feedback control module, and a laser controller. The arrow indicates the propagation direction of the signal light.

[0141] Among them, the optical chip includes one or more optical signal processing devices, which are used to process the signal light to form multiple channels of detection signal light and receive the echo corresponding to the detection signal light. The optical signal processing device (or optical chip) can divide the signal light from the laser into multiple channels of detection signal light, and the detection signal light of multiple channels forms an outgoing ray array. The outgoing ray array reaches the field of view through the optical system to detect the target in the field of view.

[0142] The laser is used to emit signal light. The emitted signal light may be frequency modulated continuous light, such as linear frequency modulated continuous light. The number of lasers may be one, or multiple. When the number of lasers is multiple, the properties of the signal lights emitted by the multiple lasers may be different, such as having different frequency sweep slopes, different wavelengths, different center frequencies, etc.

[0143] The optical system may include one or more optical elements, where the optical elements include but are not limited to lenses, mirrors, beam splitters, gratings, wave plates (such as quarter wave plates or half wave plates), homogenizers, or scanning devices.

[0144] Optionally, the radar can also receive signal light from within the field of view, which includes the echo of the signal light emitted by the radar. After the signal light from within the field of view passes through the optical system, it is provided to the optical signal processing device as the return signal light. The optical signal processing device (or optical chip) processes the return signal light (including but not limited to splitting, demultiplexing, or mixing, etc.) to obtain one or more processing results (such as mixing results).

[0145] Furthermore, the processing results can be provided to a receiver (or detector), and the receiver can obtain one or more electrical signals based on the processing results. After processing (for example, by a received signal processing unit), the electrical signals can obtain relevant information about the target in the field of view, such as characteristic quantities such as the target's position, shape, or speed.

[0146] The Butler matrix is ​​an equal-amplitude phase-weighted network used for multi-beam synthesis. It achieves different phase weightings through 3db orthogonal branch line couplers (or 180° ring couplers) and several fixed adjustable phase shifters to form multiple beams with different directions. The Butler matrix is ​​used to realize multi-beams. Each beam utilizes all the radiation units of the entire array. Therefore, it is a lossless multi-beam synthesis method for phased array beam synthesis. The multiple beams formed by the ideal Butler matrix are orthogonal to each other. The peak value of each beam coincides with the zero value of other beams, and the mutual interference between beams is minimal.

[0147] The Butler matrix is ​​mainly an M×N matrix composed of multiple couplers and fixed phase shifters, that is, there are M input ports and N output ports. Generally, M=N, and M and N are both positive integers. For M input ports, the input of signals at different ports will produce different phase difference arrangements at N output ports, resulting in transmission beams with different directions. Switching the input port of the signal can change the beam direction and achieve a scanning effect.

[0148] See also Figure 5A , Figure 5A A schematic diagram of the structure of a Butler matrix provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0149] like Figure 5A As shown, the Butler matrix is ​​a 4×4 single matrix, that is, it has 4 input ports (input port 1, input port 2, input port 3, input port 4) and 4 output ports (output port 1, output port 2, output port 3, output port 4).

[0150] If signals are input from input port 1 to input port 4 respectively, there will be 4 phase differences between adjacent output ports, as shown in Table 1 below:

[0151] Table 1

[0152] Input Port Phase difference between adjacent output ports 1 +45° 2 -135° 3 +135° 4 -45°

[0153] By switching the input port input signal, the effect of scanning four directional beams in sequence can be achieved.

[0154] Depend on Figure 5A It can be seen that the Butler matrix also includes four 2×2 couplers, two 45° fixed phase shifters, and two crossover points (ie, crossovers of lines or signals in the matrix).

[0155] See also Figure 5B , Figure 5B A schematic diagram of the structure of a Butler matrix provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0156] like Figure 5B As shown, the Butler matrix is ​​a single 8×8 matrix, that is, it has 8 input ports (input port 1, input port 2, input port 3, input port 4, input port 5, input port 6, input port 7, input port 8) and 8 output ports (output port 1, output port 2, output port 3, output port 4, output port 5, output port 6, output port 7, output port 8).

[0157] Input signals from input port 1 to input port 8 respectively, and there will be 8 phase differences between adjacent output ports. By switching the input port input signal, the effect of 8 directional beams scanning in sequence can be achieved.

[0158] Depend on Figure 5B It can be seen that the Butler matrix also includes 12 2×2 couplers, 8 45° fixed phase shifters, and 10 cross points (ie, cross points of lines or signals in the matrix).

[0159] See also Figure 5C , Figure 5C A schematic diagram of the structure of a Butler matrix provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0160] like Figure 5C As shown, the Butler matrix is ​​a 16×16 single matrix, that is, it has 16 input ports (input port 1, input port 2, input port 3, input port 4, input port 5, input port 6, input port 7, input port 8, input port 9, input port 10, input port 11, input port 12, input port 13, input port 14, input port 15, input port 16) and 8 output ports (output port 1, output port 2, output port 3, output port 4, output port 5, output port 6, output port 7, output port 8, output port 9, output port 10, output port 11, output port 12, output port 13, output port 14, output port 15, output port 16).

[0161] Input signals from input port 1 to input port 16 respectively, then there will be 16 phase differences between adjacent output ports. By switching the input port input signal, the effect of 16 directional beams scanning in sequence can be achieved.

[0162] Depend on Figure 5C It can be seen that the Butler matrix also includes 32 2×2 couplers, 24 45° fixed phase shifters, and 60 cross points (ie, crossovers of lines or signals in the matrix).

[0163] By the above FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C It can be seen that the number of beams formed by the Butler matrix is ​​related to the order. For example, a single 4×4 matrix can form 4 directional beams, and a single 8×8 matrix can form 8 directional beams. Although a higher-order Butler matrix can form more directional beams, it also requires a large number of couplers, phase shifters, and cross structures, which makes the Butler matrix more complex and more expensive to manufacture. The cross structure will cause signal loss and crosstalk, reducing signal quality.

[0164] Currently, several Butler matrix feed networks are proposed for forming multi-directional beams for scanning:

[0165] (1) A 5×8 Butler matrix feed network for millimeter wave band is proposed. A double-layer structure is designed instead of a single plane structure, which can avoid the use of a large number of cross-couplers and save space and cost. However, the double-layer structure does not reduce the complexity of the Butler matrix feed network. The transmitting antennas under the double-layer structure cannot be kept in the same straight line, resulting in poor interference superposition effect in the far field.

[0166] (2) A planar 16×16 broadband Butler matrix feeding network is proposed, which adopts a three-layer dielectric plate stacking structure to avoid a large number of crossovers and has the advantages of small size and wide working frequency band. However, the three-layer dielectric plate stacking structure can only output signals with a total of four phase differences of ±45° and ±135°. The number of beam pointing under such a complex structure is too small, which seriously affects the scanning effect.

[0167] (3) A feed network structure that uses two 4×4 Butler matrices to realize different polarization beams is proposed, and the polarization direction is selected by adjusting the switch. However, the number of beam directions formed by the Butler matrix feed network of this structure is not improved, and there are many cross structures.

[0168] (4) A feed network structure using two Butler matrices for beam transmission is proposed, corresponding to the high frequency and low frequency of the transmitted signal respectively, to solve the problem of dual beam pointing divergence with frequency under the same antenna array. However, this technology uses two matrices to process different signals respectively, and does not change the structure of the Butler matrix. It belongs to the use of conventional matrix, so it still has the problems and disadvantages of conventional Butler matrix, that is, high-order matrix has a large number of components and cross structure.

[0169] In view of the fact that the high-order Butler matrix in the current multi-beamforming network has a large number of components and a large number of cross-structures of connecting lines, which leads to a high structural complexity of the matrix and serious signal crosstalk and loss, the present application provides a signal processing system and related devices, which relate to the field of signal processing technology and can effectively solve the above problems, reduce the number of components and line cross-structures, reduce the structural complexity of the matrix, and improve signal quality.

[0170] The signal processing system and signal processing device provided by the present application will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0171] See also Figure 6 , Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a signal processing system provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0172] like Figure 6 As shown, the signal processing system includes:

[0173] A first beam splitting unit 10, a second beam splitting unit 20, a third beam splitting unit 30, a first phase shifting unit 40, at least two signal processing units, the at least two signal processing units include a first signal processing unit 50 having M input ports and N output ports and a second signal processing unit 60 having P input ports and Q output ports; wherein:

[0174] A first beam splitting unit 10, used for splitting one signal (input signal) into at least two signals, wherein the at least two signals include a first signal and a second signal;

[0175] The second beam splitting unit 20 is used to split the first signal into M sub-signals, and the M sub-signals are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit 50;

[0176] A first phase shift unit 40, configured to perform phase shift processing on the second signal to obtain a third signal;

[0177] The third beam splitting unit 30 is used to split the third signal into P sub-signals, and the P sub-signals are respectively input into the P input ports of the second signal processing unit 60;

[0178] The N output ports of the first signal processing unit 50 and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit 60 are arranged crosswise, and the above M, N, P, and Q are integers greater than or equal to 2.

[0179] Depend on Figure 6 It can be seen from the signal processing system shown that the input signal of the first signal processing unit 50 and the input signal of the second signal processing unit 60 in the signal processing system are derived from the same signal split by the first beam splitting unit 10, and the input signal of one of the signal processing units (the second signal processing unit 60) is phase shifted, and the output port of the first signal processing unit 50 and the output port of the second signal processing unit 60 are cross-arranged. By phase adjusting the input signal of the second signal processing unit 60, the output port of the first signal processing unit 50 and the output port of the second signal processing unit 60 can output signals with multiple phase differences, and superimpose in the far field interference to form multiple correspondingly directed beams.

[0180] Compared with a solution in which a single signal processing unit with higher complexity outputs signals to form a variety of directional beams in the far field, in an embodiment of the present application, at least two signal processing units with lower complexity output signals with a variety of phase differences, thereby forming a variety of corresponding directional beams in the far field, which can achieve the same number of directional beams as a single signal processing unit with higher complexity. Moreover, compared with the internal structure of a single signal processing unit with higher complexity, the embodiment of the present application uses at least two signal processing units with lower complexity, which can reduce the number of components and line crossing structure of the signal processing unit, reduce the structural complexity of the signal processing system, and improve the signal quality.

[0181] Optionally, the N output ports of the first signal processing unit 50 and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit 60 are cross-arranged and arranged on the same straight line.

[0182] Optionally, the N output ports of the first signal processing unit 50 are respectively connected to N transmitting antennas, and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit 60 are respectively connected to Q transmitting antennas, and the N transmitting antennas and the Q transmitting antennas are cross-arranged and arranged on the same straight line.

[0183] Through the embodiments of the present application, the signals with various phase differences generated by the output port of the first signal processing unit 50 and the output port of the second signal processing unit 60 can be superimposed in the far field to form beams with various corresponding directions, thereby improving the interference superposition effect in the far field.

[0184] In a possible embodiment, the phase differences of signals outputted by any two groups of adjacent ports among the N output ports and the Q output ports cross-arranged in the signal processing system are the same.

[0185] It can be understood that the present application does not need to limit the number of input ports (i.e., the values ​​of M and P) and the number of output ports (i.e., the values ​​of N and Q) of the first signal processing unit 50 and the second signal processing unit 60. It is only necessary to satisfy that the phase difference of the signals output by any two groups of adjacent ports among the N output ports and Q output ports cross-arranged in the above-mentioned signal processing system is the same, and there are two phase values ​​under each phase difference, that is, adjusting the first phase shifting unit can obtain beams with multiple directions, which is twice the number of beam directions formed by a single signal processing unit with the same complexity.

[0186] In a possible embodiment, the first signal processing unit 50 and / or the second signal processing unit 60 in the above signal processing system is at least one of the following items in a matrix including a coupler and a phase shifter:

[0187] Butler matrix, Noren matrix, Blass matrix.

[0188] It can be understood that the first signal processing unit 50 and / or the second signal processing unit 60 in the embodiment of the present application only needs to be a matrix structure that can form a multi-directional beam.

[0189] Optionally, when the first signal processing unit 50 and the second signal processing unit 60 are Butler matrices including a coupler and a phase shifter, the input signal of the first Butler matrix (i.e., the first signal processing unit 50) and the input signal of the second Butler matrix (i.e., the second signal processing unit 60) in the signal processing system are derived from the splitting of the same signal path, and the input signal of one of the Butler matrices (the second Butler matrix) is phase shifted, and the output port of the first Butler matrix and the output port of the second Butler matrix are cross-arranged. By phase adjusting the input signal of the second Butler matrix, the output port of the first Butler matrix and the output port of the second Butler matrix can output signals with multiple phase differences, and superimpose in the far field interference to form multiple correspondingly directed beams.

[0190] Compared with the solution of forming multiple directional beams in the far field by outputting signals through a single high-order Butler matrix, the embodiment of the present application outputs signals with multiple phase differences through at least two low-order Butler matrices, thereby forming multiple corresponding directional beams in the far field, which can achieve the same number of directional beams as a single high-order Butler matrix. In addition, compared with the internal structure of a single high-order Butler matrix, the embodiment of the present application uses at least two low-order Butler matrices, which can reduce the number of components (couplers and phase shifters) and line cross-structure of the Butler matrix, reduce the structural complexity of the signal processing system, and improve signal quality.

[0191] In a possible embodiment, the reduction of the number of components and the cross-line structure in the above signal processing system may be specifically manifested in the following aspects:

[0192] Aspect 1:

[0193] When M, N, P, and Q in the above signal processing system are the same, the number of couplers in at least two signal processing units is:

[0194] Nlog2N or 2 n n;

[0195] Where N = 2 n , n is a positive integer.

[0196] It can be understood that when the above M, N, P, and Q are all the same, the number of couplers in the signal processing system composed of two N*N signal processing units with lower complexity is Nlog2N or 2 n n, and the corresponding single signal processing unit with higher complexity is a (2N)*(2N) signal processing unit. The number of couplers in the (2N)*(2N) signal processing unit is

[0197] It can be seen that the signal processing system composed of two N*N low-complexity signal processing units can greatly reduce the number of components (including but not limited to couplers) of the signal processing system while ensuring the same number of directed beam effects as one (2N)*(2N) high-complexity signal processing unit, thereby solving the problems of large number of components, high cost and difficult implementation of conventional high-complexity signal processing units.

[0198] Aspect 2:

[0199] When M, N, P, and Q in the above signal processing system are the same, the number of phase shifters in at least two signal processing units is:

[0200] N(log2N-1) or 2 n (n-1);

[0201] Where N = 2 n , n is a positive integer.

[0202] It can be understood that when the above M, N, P, and Q are all the same, the number of phase shifters in the signal processing system composed of two N*N signal processing units with lower complexity is N(log2N-1) or 2 n (n-1), and the corresponding single signal processing unit with higher complexity is a (2N)*(2N) signal processing unit. The number of fixed phase shifters in the (2N)*(2N) signal processing unit is

[0203] It can be seen that the signal processing system composed of two N*N low-complexity signal processing units can greatly reduce the number of components (including but not limited to phase shifters) of the signal processing system while ensuring the same number of directed beam effects as one (2N)*(2N) high-complexity signal processing unit, thereby solving the problems of large number of components, high cost and difficult implementation of conventional high-complexity signal processing units.

[0204] Aspect three:

[0205] When M, N, P, and Q in the above signal processing system are the same, the number of crossover points in at least two signal processing units is:

[0206]

[0207] Where N = 2 n , n is a positive integer.

[0208] It can be understood that when the above M, N, P, and Q are all the same, in the case of n=1 (i.e., N=2), the number of crosspoints in the signal processing system composed of two N*N signal processing units with lower complexity is 0, and the corresponding single signal processing unit with higher complexity is a (2N)*(2N) signal processing unit, and the number of crosspoints in the (2N)*(2N) signal processing unit is 2. In the case of n=2 (i.e., N=4), the number of crosspoints in the signal processing system composed of two N*N signal processing units with lower complexity is 4, and the corresponding single signal processing unit with higher complexity is a (2N)*(2N) signal processing unit, and the number of crosspoints in the (2N)*(2N) signal processing unit is When n ≥ 3, the number of crossover points in the signal processing system consisting of two N*N low complexity signal processing units is The corresponding single signal processing unit with higher complexity is a (2N)*(2N) signal processing unit, and the number of crossover points in the (2N)*(2N) signal processing unit is

[0209] It can be seen that the signal processing system composed of two N*N signal processing units with lower complexity can greatly reduce the number of crossover points in the signal processing system (i.e., the crossover of lines or signals in the signal processing system) while ensuring the same number of directed beam effects as one (2N)*(2N) signal processing unit with higher complexity, thereby solving the problems of high loss and large crosstalk caused by a large number of crossovers in conventional signal processing units with higher complexity, improving signal quality, and reducing the difficulty of implementing the signal processing system.

[0210] The following will combine several specific Butler matrix Figure 6 The signal processing system shown is described.

[0211] Example 1:

[0212] Figure 6 The first signal processing unit 50 and the second signal processing unit 60 in the illustrated signal processing system are 4×4 Butler matrices including couplers and phase shifters.

[0213] For details, please refer to Fig. 7A , Fig. 7A A schematic diagram of the structure of a Butler matrix provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0214] like Fig. 7A As shown in the figure, it is a combination matrix composed of two 4×4 Butler matrices. The two 4×4 Butler matrices in the combination matrix are opposite to each other, and the 8 output ports are arranged crosswise. The transmitting antennas connected to the output ports are also arranged crosswise to form an 8-antenna transmitting array. The input signal first passes through a beam splitter to form two signals. One signal is split into 4 sub-signals through the beam splitter. Each sub-signal is connected to a switch. The 4 switches control the signal input of the 4 input ports of the 4×4 Butler matrix. The 4 output ports of the 4×4 Butler matrix are respectively connected to 4 transmitting antennas. The other signal formed by the input signal passing through the beam splitter passes through an adjustable phase shifter to control the initial phase of the signal. After that, the signal is also split into 4 sub-signals through beam splitting, and is respectively connected to 4 switches. After passing through a 4×4 Butler matrix with the same structure, it enters the 4 transmitting antennas.

[0215] Depend on Fig. 7A It can be seen that a single 4×4 Butler matrix consists of four 2×2 couplers, two fixed phase shifters, and two crossover points.

[0216] Fig. 7A A single 4×4 Butler matrix in can produce four phase differences (±π / 4, ±3π / 4), corresponding to Fig. 7A The situation when the input ports ① to ④ in the image are input with separate signals, that is, scanning beams with four directions. The combined matrix composed of two 4×4 Butler matrices in the embodiment of the present application controls the initial phase difference of the two Butler matrices, and opens the input ports with the same port number in the two matrices at the same time each time, that is, opens two ① or two ② or two ③ or two ④ at the same time. At this time, the two matrices produce the same phase difference Δ, the phase of the adjustable phase shifter is δ, the distance between any two adjacent ones of the 8 transmitting antennas is d, the wavelength is λ, and the transmitting beams of transmitting antennas 1 to 8 are at different diffraction angles θ. d The phases are as follows in Table 2:

[0217] Table 2

[0218]

[0219] in, Represents different diffraction angles θ d The phase brought below.

[0220] Then the total amplitude of the transmitted signals of the eight transmitting antennas after superposition in the far field is:

[0221]

[0222] in, represents the diffraction of a single transmit antenna beam, a is the aperture of the transmitting antenna, and the intensity distribution of the beam is:

[0223]

[0224] in,

[0225] It can be seen from the above formula that the initial phase difference δ can change the far-field intensity distribution.

[0226] The maximum points of calculated intensity distribution are:

[0227]

[0228] Among them, k, m, n, and q are integers.

[0229] From the maximum point of the above intensity distribution, we can get:

[0230]

[0231] Among them, θ d The maximum is ±90°, so the p value is limited. Therefore, after a given Δ, there is a certain δ value that makes I at an angle θ corresponding to a certain p value. d The maximum value is obtained at the angle θ d is the beam pointing angle θ.

[0232] Optionally, simulation is performed under the conditions of d = λ = 1550nm, a = 500nm, and the results in Table 3 and Figure 8 data.

[0233] For details, please refer to Table 3 below:

[0234] Table 3

[0235]

[0236]

[0237] For details, please refer to Figure 8, Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a beamforming effect provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0238] like Figure 8 As shown, the abscissa represents the beam pointing angle, and the ordinate represents the beam intensity. Curve a represents the beam schematic diagram corresponding to "Δ=π / 4, θ=-61.04°", curve b represents the beam schematic diagram corresponding to "Δ=3π / 4, θ=-38.68°", curve c represents the beam schematic diagram corresponding to "Δ=-3π / 4, θ=-22.02°", curve d represents the beam schematic diagram corresponding to "Δ=-π / 4, θ=-7.18°", curve e represents the beam schematic diagram corresponding to "Δ=π / 4, θ=7.18°", curve f represents the beam schematic diagram corresponding to "Δ=3π / 4, θ=22.02°", curve g represents the beam schematic diagram corresponding to "Δ=-3π / 4, θ=38.68°", and curve h represents the beam schematic diagram corresponding to "Δ=-π / 4, θ=61.04°".

[0239] It can be seen that for a single 4×4 Butler matrix, There are two δ values ​​for each phase difference, that is, eight directional beams can be obtained by adjusting the adjustable phase shifter, which doubles the number of beams in a single 4×4 Butler matrix.

[0240] Furthermore, the 4×4 combined matrix structure in the embodiment of the present application is combined with the above Figure 5B Compared with the 8×8 single matrix structure in , it can be seen that the components and crossover structures required by the two are shown in Table 4 below:

[0241] Table 4

[0242] Devices 8×8 single matrix 4×4 combination matrix switch 8 8 2×2 Coupler 12 8 Fixed Phase Shifter 8 4 Cross structure 10 4 Adjustable Phase Shifter 0 1

[0243] That is, the 4×4 combined matrix adds an adjustable phase shifter and reduces four 2×2 couplers, four fixed phase shifters and six cross structures, which can reduce signal crosstalk and loss while simplifying the complexity of the signal processing system.

[0244] From the comparison of transmission power, if the signal light input power is 1, the transmission power of a single antenna in a conventional 8×8 matrix is The transmission power of a single antenna in a 4×4 combination matrix is Therefore, the combined matrix structure can double the transmit power with the same number of transmit beams. This feature can also be extended to higher-order combinations. The transmit power of a single antenna in a conventional M×N matrix is The combined matrix requires a single antenna to transmit power of That is, the combined matrix structure increases the transmission power by a fixed amount of 1 times.

[0245] Example 2:

[0246] Figure 6 The first signal processing unit 50 and the second signal processing unit 60 in the illustrated signal processing system are 2×2 Butler matrices including couplers and phase shifters.

[0247] For details, please refer to Figure 7B , Figure 7B A schematic diagram of the structure of a Butler matrix provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0248] like Figure 7B As shown in the figure, it is a combination matrix composed of two 2×2 Butler matrices. The two 2×2 Butler matrices in the combination matrix are opposite in direction, and the four output ports are arranged crosswise. The transmitting antennas connected to the output ports are also arranged crosswise to form a 4-antenna transmitting array. The input signal first passes through a beam splitter to form two signals. One signal is split into two sub-signals through the beam splitter. Each sub-signal is connected to a switch. The two switches control the signal input of the two input ports of the 2×2 Butler matrix. The two output ports of the 2×2 Butler matrix are connected to two transmitting antennas respectively. The other signal formed by the input signal passing through the beam splitter passes through an adjustable phase shifter to control the initial phase of the signal. After that, the signal is also split into two sub-signals through beam splitting, and is respectively connected to two switches. After passing through a 2×2 Butler matrix with the same structure, it enters the two transmitting antennas.

[0249] Depend on Figure 7B It can be seen that a single 2×2 Butler matrix consists of 1 2×2 coupler, 0 fixed phase shifters, and 0 crossover points.

[0250] Figure 7B The combination matrix of the two 2×2 Butler matrices in can produce four phase differences (±π / 4, ±3π / 4). The specific process can be found in the above Fig. 7A The relevant instructions in will not be repeated here.

[0251] Furthermore, the 2×2 matrix structure in the embodiment of the present application is combined with the above Figure 5A Compared with the 4×4 single matrix structure in , it can be seen that the components and crossover structures required by the two are shown in Table 5 below:

[0252] Table 5

[0253] Devices 4×4 single matrix 2×2 combination matrix switch 4 4 2×2 Coupler 4 2 Fixed Phase Shifter 2 0 Cross structure 2 0 Adjustable Phase Shifter 0 1

[0254] That is, the 2×2 combined matrix adds an adjustable phase shifter and reduces two 2×2 couplers, two fixed phase shifters and two cross structures, which can reduce signal crosstalk and loss while simplifying the complexity of the signal processing system.

[0255] Example 3:

[0256] Figure 6 The first signal processing unit 50 and the second signal processing unit 60 in the illustrated signal processing system are 8×8 Butler matrices including couplers and phase shifters.

[0257] For details, please refer to Figure 7C , Figure 7C A schematic diagram of the structure of a Butler matrix provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0258] like Figure 7C As shown in the figure, it is a combination matrix composed of two 8×8 Butler matrices. The two 8×8 Butler matrices in the combination matrix are opposite to each other, and the 16 output ports are arranged crosswise. The transmitting antennas connected to the output ports are also arranged crosswise to form a 16-antenna transmitting array. The input signal first passes through a beam splitter to form two signals. One signal is split into 8 sub-signals through the beam splitter. Each sub-signal is connected to a switch. The 8 switches control the signal input of the 8 input ports of the 8×8 Butler matrix. The 8 output ports of the 8×8 Butler matrix are respectively connected to 8 transmitting antennas. The other signal formed by the input signal passing through the beam splitter passes through an adjustable phase shifter to control the initial phase of the signal. After that, the signal is also split into 8 sub-signals through beam splitting, and is respectively connected to 8 switches. After passing through an 8×8 Butler matrix with the same structure, it enters the 8 transmitting antennas.

[0259] Depend on Figure 7C It can be seen that a single 8×8 Butler matrix consists of 12 2×2 couplers, 8 fixed phase shifters, and 10 crosspoints.

[0260] Figure 7C The combination matrix of the two 8×8 Butler matrices in can produce 16 phase differences (±π / 16, ±3π / 16, ±5π / 16, ±7π / 16, ±9π / 16, ±11π / 16, ±13π / 16, ±15π / 16). The specific process can be found in the above Fig. 7A The relevant instructions in will not be repeated here.

[0261] Furthermore, the 8×8 matrix structure in the embodiment of the present application is combined with the above Figure 5C Compared with the 16×16 single matrix structure in , it can be seen that the components and crossover structures required for the two are shown in Table 6 below:

[0262] Table 6

[0263] Devices 16×16 single matrix 8×8 combination matrix switch 16 16 2×2 Coupler 32 24 Fixed Phase Shifter 24 16 Cross structure 60 20 Adjustable Phase Shifter 0 1

[0264] That is, the 8×8 combination matrix adds an adjustable phase shifter and reduces 8 2×2 couplers, 8 fixed phase shifters and 40 cross structures, which can reduce signal crosstalk and loss while simplifying the complexity of the signal processing system.

[0265] From the above three exemplary descriptions (Example 1, Example 2, Example 3), the antenna phase difference, number of beams, number of components, and number of crosses corresponding to the combined matrices and single matrices of different orders can be obtained as shown in Table 7 below:

[0266] Table 7

[0267]

[0268] From the above three aspects (Aspect 1, Aspect 2, Aspect 3) and three exemplary illustrations (Example 1, Example 2, Example 3), it can be seen that:

[0269] For a single matrix of N*N, N=2 n , n is a positive integer, the number of components and cross-points in the N*N single matrix is ​​as follows:

[0270] The number of couplers is:

[0271] The number of fixed phase shifters is:

[0272] The number of intersections is:

[0273] For a combined matrix consisting of two N*N single matrices, N=2 n , n is a positive integer, the number of components and cross points in the combination matrix is ​​as follows:

[0274] The number of couplers is: Nlog2N = 2 n n;

[0275] The number of fixed phase shifters is: N(log2N-1)=2 n (n-1);

[0276] The number of intersections is:

[0277] For a combined matrix consisting of two N*N single matrices, N=2 n , n is a positive integer, and the corresponding high-order matrix with the same beam effect is a single matrix of (2N)*(2N), 2N=2 n+1 , the number of components and crosspoints in the (2N)*(2N) single matrix is ​​as follows:

[0278] The number of couplers is:

[0279] The number of fixed phase shifters is:

[0280] The number of intersections is:

[0281] Therefore, under the premise of ensuring the same beam effect, compared with the single matrix of (2N)*(2N), the number of components and cross points reduced in the combined matrix composed of 2 N*N single matrices is as follows:

[0282] The number of couplers is: 2 n (n+1)-2 n n=2 n ;

[0283] The number of fixed phase shifters is: 2 n n-2 n (n-1)=2 n ;

[0284] The number of intersections is:

[0285] Through the embodiments of the present application, at least two low-order Butler matrices are used to output signals with multiple phase differences, forming multiple corresponding directed beams in the far field, which can achieve the same number of directed beam effects as a single high-order Butler matrix. Compared with the internal structure of a single high-order Butler matrix, the embodiments of the present application use at least two low-order Butler matrices, which can reduce the number of components and line crossing structure of the Butler matrix, reduce the structural complexity of the signal processing system, solve the problems of high loss and large crosstalk caused by a large number of crossovers in conventional high-order single matrices, and improve signal quality.

[0286] See also Fig. 9 , Fig. 9 The structure diagram of a signal processing system provided in the embodiment of the present application is shown in FIG. Figure 6 or, it can be understood that the signal processing system in the embodiments of the present application can also be regarded as an embodiment that can be executed independently, and the present application does not limit this. The signal processing system provided in the embodiments of the present application relates to the field of signal processing technology and can be applied to laser radar complete machines or structural components, millimeter wave radar complete machines or structural components, beam transmission products of wireless communication equipment, multi-channel laser transmission modules in optical communications, etc.

[0287] like Fig. 9 As shown, the signal processing system includes:

[0288] A first beam splitting unit 10, a second beam splitting unit 20, a third beam splitting unit 30, a first phase shifting unit 40, at least two signal processing units, the at least two signal processing units include a first signal processing unit 50 having M input ports and N output ports and a second signal processing unit 60 having P input ports and Q output ports.

[0289] The connection relationship and signal flow of the first beam splitting unit 10, the second beam splitting unit 20, the third beam splitting unit 30, the first phase shifting unit 40, the first signal processing unit 50, and the second signal processing unit 60 are the same as those described above. Figure 6 The signal processing system shown is the same and will not be described again here.

[0290] The signal processing system in the embodiment of the present application further includes:

[0291] The first switch array 70 and the second switch array 80 .

[0292] The first switch array 70 is used to control the on or off of the M-path signal, and the second switch array 80 is used to control the on or off of the P-path signal.

[0293] Through the first switch array 70 and the second switch array 80 in the embodiment of the present application, the corresponding input ports of the first signal processing unit 50 and the second signal processing unit 60 can be controlled to simultaneously input the same source signals to ensure the consistency of the signal wavelength, thereby satisfying the interference superposition condition of the transmission beams of the first signal processing unit 50 and the second signal processing unit 60 in the far field.

[0294] See also Fig. 10A , Fig. 10A The structure diagram of a signal processing system provided in the embodiment of the present application is shown in FIG. Figure 6 or Fig. 9 or, it can be understood that the signal processing system in the embodiments of the present application can also be regarded as an embodiment that can be executed independently, and the present application does not limit this. The signal processing system provided in the embodiments of the present application relates to the field of signal processing technology and can be applied to laser radar complete machines or structural components, millimeter wave radar complete machines or structural components, beam transmission products of wireless communication equipment, multi-channel laser transmission modules in optical communications, etc.

[0295] like Fig. 10A As shown, the signal processing system includes:

[0296] A first beam splitting unit 10, a second beam splitting unit 20, a third beam splitting unit 30, a first phase shifting unit 40, at least two signal processing units, the at least two signal processing units include a first signal processing unit 50 having M input ports and N output ports and a second signal processing unit 60 having P input ports and Q output ports.

[0297] The connection relationship and signal flow of the first beam splitting unit 10, the second beam splitting unit 20, the third beam splitting unit 30, the first phase shifting unit 40, the first signal processing unit 50, and the second signal processing unit 60 are the same as those described above. Figure 6 The signal processing system shown is the same and will not be described again here.

[0298] The signal processing system in the embodiment of the present application further includes:

[0299] The first switch array 70 and the second switch array 80 .

[0300] The connection relationship and signal flow of the first switch array 70 and the second switch array 80 are similar to those described above. Fig. 9 The signal processing system shown is the same and will not be described again here.

[0301] Specifically, the signal processing system in the embodiment of the present application also includes a multiplexer 901.

[0302] The multiplexer 901 is used to combine multiple signals with different wavelengths into one signal and transmit it to the first beam splitting unit 10 .

[0303] The M sub-signals corresponding to each type of wavelength signal included in the above-mentioned first signal are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit 50, and the P sub-signals corresponding to each type of wavelength signal included in the above-mentioned third signal are respectively input into the P input ports of the second signal processing unit 60.

[0304] It can be understood that the signal processing system in the embodiment of the present application may also include a multiplexer 901, which is used to combine multiple signals with different wavelengths (for example, wavelength 1, wavelength 2, wavelength 3,..., wavelength n) into one signal and transmit it to the first beam splitting unit 10, thereby realizing multi-wavelength beam transmission using a combination matrix composed of at least two signal processing units, and selecting the wavelength of the transmission beam through a switch. Different wavelengths have different directions and can be used in different receiving terminals and communication networks with different frequencies.

[0305] Optionally, after the first signal is split by the second beam splitting unit 20, the M paths of sub-signals corresponding to the signals of each type of wavelength contained in the first signal are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit 50; after the third signal is split by the third beam splitting unit 30, the P paths of sub-signals corresponding to the signals of each type of wavelength contained in the third signal are respectively input into the P input ports of the second signal processing unit 60.

[0306] Exemplarily, the multiplexer 901 in the signal processing system combines multiple signals with different wavelengths (wavelength 1, wavelength 2, wavelength 3, . . . , wavelength n) into one signal and transmits it to the first beam splitting unit 10. Correspondingly, after the first signal is split by the second beam splitting unit 20, the M sub-signals corresponding to the signal of wavelength 1 contained in the first signal are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit 50, the M sub-signals corresponding to the signal of wavelength 2 contained in the first signal are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit 50, the M sub-signals corresponding to the signal of wavelength 3 contained in the first signal are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit 50, and so on. The M sub-signals corresponding to the signal of wavelength n are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit 50; after the third signal is split by the third beam splitting unit 30, the P sub-signals corresponding to the signal of wavelength 1 contained in the third signal are respectively input into the P input ports of the second signal processing unit 60, the P sub-signals corresponding to the signal of wavelength 2 contained in the third signal are respectively input into the P input ports of the second signal processing unit 60, the P sub-signals corresponding to the signal of wavelength 3 contained in the third signal are respectively input into the P input ports of the second signal processing unit 60, and so on, the P sub-signals corresponding to the signal of wavelength n contained in the third signal are respectively input into the P input ports of the second signal processing unit 60.

[0307] See also Fig. 10B , Fig. 10B The structure diagram of a signal processing system provided in the embodiment of the present application is shown in FIG. Figure 6 or Fig. 9 or Fig. 10A or, it can be understood that the signal processing system in the embodiments of the present application can also be regarded as an embodiment that can be executed independently, and the present application does not limit this. The signal processing system provided in the embodiments of the present application relates to the field of signal processing technology and can be applied to laser radar complete machines or structural components, millimeter wave radar complete machines or structural components, beam transmission products of wireless communication equipment, multi-channel laser transmission modules in optical communications, etc.

[0308] like Fig. 10B As shown, the signal processing system includes:

[0309] A first beam splitting unit 10, a second beam splitting unit 20, a third beam splitting unit 30, a first phase shifting unit 40, at least two signal processing units, the at least two signal processing units include a first signal processing unit 50 having M input ports and N output ports and a second signal processing unit 60 having P input ports and Q output ports.

[0310] The connection relationship and signal flow of the first beam splitting unit 10, the second beam splitting unit 20, the third beam splitting unit 30, the first phase shifting unit 40, the first signal processing unit 50, and the second signal processing unit 60 are the same as those described above. Figure 6 The signal processing system shown is the same and will not be described again here.

[0311] Optionally, the signal processing system in the embodiment of the present application further includes:

[0312] The first switch array 70 and the second switch array 80 .

[0313] The connection relationship and signal flow of the first switch array 70 and the second switch array 80 are similar to those described above. Fig. 9 The signal processing system shown is the same and will not be described again here.

[0314] Specifically, the second beam splitting unit 20 in the embodiment of the present application includes a first demultiplexer 201 , the third beam splitting unit 30 in the embodiment of the present application includes a second demultiplexer 301 , and the signal processing system in the embodiment of the present application also includes a multiplexer 901 .

[0315] The multiplexer 901 is used to combine multiple signals with different wavelengths into one signal and transmit it to the first beam splitting unit 10, the first demultiplexer 201 is used to separate the first signal by wavelength category, and the second demultiplexer 301 is used to separate the third signal by wavelength category.

[0316] The signals of various wavelengths included in the first signal are respectively input to the input port of the first signal processing unit 50 , and the signals of various wavelengths included in the third signal are respectively input to the input port of the second signal processing unit 60 .

[0317] It can be understood that the signal processing system in the embodiment of the present application may further include a multiplexer 901. Accordingly, the second beam splitting unit 20 in the signal processing system in the embodiment of the present application may specifically include a first demultiplexer 201, and the third beam splitting unit 30 in the signal processing system in the embodiment of the present application may specifically include a second demultiplexer 301. The multiplexer 901 in the signal processing system is used to combine multiple signals with different wavelengths (for example, wavelength 1, wavelength 2, wavelength 3, . . . , wavelength n) into one signal and transmit it to the first beam splitting unit 10. Accordingly, the first demultiplexer 201 is used to separate the first signal by wavelength category, and the second demultiplexer 301 is used to separate the third signal by wavelength category, thereby achieving multi-wavelength beam transmission using a combination matrix composed of at least two signal processing units, and selecting the wavelength of the transmission beam by a switch. Different wavelengths have different directions and can be used for different receiving terminals and communication networks of different frequencies.

[0318] Optionally, after the first signal is separated by wavelength category through the first demultiplexer 201, the signals of each wavelength contained in the first signal are respectively input into the input port of the first signal processing unit; after the third signal is separated by wavelength category through the second demultiplexer 301, the signals of each wavelength contained in the third signal are respectively input into the input port of the second signal processing unit.

[0319] Exemplarily, the multiplexer 901 in the signal processing system combines multiple signals with different wavelengths (wavelength 1, wavelength 2, wavelength 3,..., wavelength n) into one signal and transmits it to the first beam splitting unit 10. Accordingly, after the first demultiplexer 201 separates the first signal according to wavelength category, the signals of wavelength 1, wavelength 2, wavelength 3,..., wavelength n contained in the first signal are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit 50. It can be understood that the number of wavelength categories n at this time should not be greater than the number M of the input ports of the first signal processing unit 50; after the second demultiplexer 301 separates the third signal according to wavelength category, the P-path sub-signals corresponding to the signals of wavelength 1, wavelength 2, wavelength 3,..., wavelength n contained in the third signal are respectively input into the P input ports of the second signal processing unit 60. It can be understood that the number of wavelength categories n at this time should not be greater than the number P of the input ports of the second signal processing unit 60.

[0320] Optionally, in this case, the first switch array 70 and the second switch array 80 in the above-mentioned signal processing system are non-essential devices. It can be understood that the signal processing system may only include a switch array for controlling various types of wavelength inputs, or only include the first switch array 70 and the second switch array 80, or may simultaneously include a switch array for controlling various types of wavelength inputs, the first switch array 70 and the second switch array 80, and the embodiment of the present application does not limit this. When the above-mentioned switch arrays are not included in the signal processing system, the number of input wavelength categories is a fixed value and cannot be adjusted according to different scenarios.

[0321] See also Fig.11 , Fig.11 The structure diagram of a signal processing system provided in the embodiment of the present application is shown in FIG. Figure 6 or Fig. 9 or Fig. 10A or Fig. 10B or, it can be understood that the signal processing system in the embodiments of the present application can also be regarded as an embodiment that can be executed independently, and the present application does not limit this. The signal processing system provided in the embodiments of the present application relates to the field of signal processing technology and can be applied to laser radar complete machines or structural components, millimeter wave radar complete machines or structural components, beam transmission products of wireless communication equipment, multi-channel laser transmission modules in optical communications, etc.

[0322] like Fig.11 As shown, the signal processing system includes:

[0323] A first beam splitting unit 10, a second beam splitting unit 20, a fourth beam splitting unit 100, a second phase shifting unit 110, at least two signal processing units, the at least two signal processing units include a first signal processing unit 50 having M input ports and N output ports and a second signal processing unit 60 having P input ports and Q output ports; wherein:

[0324] A first beam splitting unit 10, used for splitting one signal (input signal) into at least two signals, wherein the at least two signals include a first signal and a second signal;

[0325] The second beam splitting unit 20 is used to split the first signal into M sub-signals, and the M sub-signals are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit 50;

[0326] The fourth beam splitting unit 100 is used to split the second signal into 2P path signals;

[0327] The second phase shift unit 110 is used to perform phase shift processing on the 2P path signal, and the 2P path signal after phase shift is respectively coupled to the P input ports of the second signal processing unit 60 by switch control;

[0328] The N output ports of the first signal processing unit 50 and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit 60 are arranged crosswise, and the above M, N, P, and Q are integers greater than or equal to 2.

[0329] Depend on Fig.11 It can be seen from the signal processing system shown that the input signal of the first signal processing unit 50 and the input signal of the second signal processing unit 60 in the signal processing system are derived from the same signal split by the first beam splitting unit 10, and the input signal of one of the signal processing units (the second signal processing unit 60) is first split and then phase-shifted, the output port of the first signal processing unit 50 and the output port of the second signal processing unit 60 are arranged crosswise, and the input signal of the second signal processing unit 60 is first split and then phase-shifted by setting a plurality of fixed phase shifters with different phase shift amounts, so that the output port of the first signal processing unit 50 and the output port of the second signal processing unit 60 can output signals with a variety of phase differences, and superimpose in far-field interference to form a variety of correspondingly directed beams.

[0330] Compared with a solution in which a single signal processing unit with higher complexity outputs signals to form a variety of directional beams in the far field, in an embodiment of the present application, at least two signal processing units with lower complexity output signals with a variety of phase differences, thereby forming a variety of corresponding directional beams in the far field, which can achieve the same number of directional beams as a single signal processing unit with higher complexity. Moreover, compared with the internal structure of a single signal processing unit with higher complexity, the embodiment of the present application uses at least two signal processing units with lower complexity, which can reduce the number of components and line crossing structure of the signal processing unit, reduce the structural complexity of the signal processing system, and improve the signal quality.

[0331] With the above Figure 6 , Fig. 9 , Fig. 10A , Fig. 10B Compared with the scheme in which an adjustable phase shifter is used to first phase-shift and then split the input signal of the second signal processing unit 60 in the signal processing system shown in the figure, in the embodiment of the present application, a plurality of fixed phase shifters are used to first split and then phase-shift the input signal of the second signal processing unit 60, thereby forming a signal processing system that can output signals with multiple phase differences and form multiple corresponding directional beams in far-field interference superposition with only switch control, and is easy to operate.

[0332] Optionally, the N output ports of the first signal processing unit 50 and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit 60 are cross-arranged and arranged on the same straight line.

[0333] Optionally, the N output ports of the first signal processing unit 50 are respectively connected to N transmitting antennas, and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit 60 are respectively connected to Q transmitting antennas, and the N transmitting antennas and the Q transmitting antennas are cross-arranged and arranged on the same straight line.

[0334] Through the embodiments of the present application, the signals with various phase differences generated by the output port of the first signal processing unit 50 and the output port of the second signal processing unit 60 can be superimposed in the far field to form beams with various corresponding directions, thereby improving the interference superposition effect in the far field.

[0335] In a possible embodiment, the phase differences of signals outputted by any two groups of adjacent ports among the N output ports and the Q output ports cross-arranged in the signal processing system are the same.

[0336] It can be understood that there are two phase values ​​under each phase difference, that is, adjusting the first phase shifting unit can obtain beams with multiple directions, which is twice the number of beam directions formed by a single signal processing unit with the same complexity.

[0337] In a possible embodiment, the signal processing system further includes:

[0338] A first switch array and a second switch array.

[0339] The first switch array is used to control the on or off of the M-path signal, and the second switch array is used to control the on or off of the 2P-path signal.

[0340] Through the first switch array and the second switch array in the embodiment of the present application, the corresponding input ports of the first signal processing unit 50 and the second signal processing unit 60 can be controlled to simultaneously input the same source signals to ensure the consistency of the signal wavelengths, thereby satisfying the interference superposition conditions of the transmission beams of the first signal processing unit 50 and the second signal processing unit 60 in the far field.

[0341] In a possible embodiment, the first signal processing unit 50 and / or the second signal processing unit 60 in the above signal processing system is at least one of the following items in a matrix including a coupler and a phase shifter:

[0342] Butler matrix, Noren matrix, Blass matrix.

[0343] It can be understood that the first signal processing unit 50 and / or the second signal processing unit 60 in the embodiment of the present application only needs to be a matrix structure that can form a multi-directional beam.

[0344] See also Fig.12 , Fig.12 The structure diagram of a signal processing system provided in the embodiment of the present application is shown in FIG. Figure 6 or Fig. 9 or Fig. 10A or Fig. 10B or Fig.11 or, it can be understood that the signal processing system in the embodiments of the present application can also be regarded as an embodiment that can be executed independently, and the present application does not limit this. The signal processing system provided in the embodiments of the present application relates to the field of signal processing technology and can be applied to laser radar complete machines or structural components, millimeter wave radar complete machines or structural components, beam transmission products of wireless communication equipment, multi-channel laser transmission modules in optical communications, etc.

[0345] like Fig.12 As shown, the signal processing system includes:

[0346] A first beam splitting unit 10, a second beam splitting unit 20, a fourth beam splitting unit 100, a second phase shifting unit 110, at least two signal processing units, the at least two signal processing units include a first signal processing unit 50 having M input ports and N output ports and a second signal processing unit 60 having P input ports and Q output ports; wherein:

[0347] A first beam splitting unit 10, used for splitting one signal (input signal) into at least two signals, wherein the at least two signals include a first signal and a second signal;

[0348] The second beam splitting unit 20 is used to split the first signal into M sub-signals, and the M sub-signals are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit 50;

[0349] The fourth beam splitting unit 100 is used to split the second signal into 2P path signals, and the 2P path signals are transmitted to the second phase shifting unit 110 through switch control;

[0350] The second phase shift unit 110 is used to perform phase shift processing on the 2P path signal, and the 2P path signal after phase shift is respectively coupled to the P input ports of the second signal processing unit 60;

[0351] The N output ports of the first signal processing unit 50 and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit 60 are arranged crosswise, and the above M, N, P, and Q are integers greater than or equal to 2.

[0352] Depend on Fig.12It can be seen from the signal processing system shown that the input signal of the first signal processing unit 50 and the input signal of the second signal processing unit 60 in the signal processing system are derived from the same signal split by the first beam splitting unit 10, and the input signal of one of the signal processing units (the second signal processing unit 60) is first split and then phase-shifted, the output port of the first signal processing unit 50 and the output port of the second signal processing unit 60 are arranged crosswise, and the input signal of the second signal processing unit 60 is first split and then phase-shifted by setting a plurality of fixed phase shifters with different phase shift amounts, so that the output port of the first signal processing unit 50 and the output port of the second signal processing unit 60 can output signals with a variety of phase differences, and superimpose in far-field interference to form a variety of correspondingly directed beams.

[0353] With the above Fig.11 The difference between the signal processing systems shown in the figure is that, in the signal processing system of the embodiment of the present application, the 2P path signal after being split by the fourth beam splitting unit 100 is first transmitted to the second phase shifting unit 110 by switch control, and then the second phase shifting unit 110 performs phase shifting processing, and the 2P path signal after phase shifting is respectively coupled to the P input ports of the second signal processing unit 60; and the above Fig.11 In the signal processing system shown, the 2P path signal after being split by the fourth splitting unit 100 is firstly phase-shifted by the second phase shifting unit 110, and then the 2P path signal after phase shifting is controlled by the switch to be transmitted and coupled to the P input ports of the second signal processing unit 60 respectively.

[0354] With the above Fig.11 The same as the signal processing system shown, in the signal processing system of the embodiment of the present application, only switch control is required to output signals with multiple phase differences and superimpose in the far-field interference to form multiple corresponding directional beams. The operation is simple, and the same number of directional beam effects as a single signal processing unit with higher complexity can be achieved. The number of components and the line crossing structure of the signal processing unit can be reduced, the structural complexity of the signal processing system can be reduced, and the signal quality can be improved.

[0355] See also Fig.13 , Fig.13 A schematic diagram of the structure of a signal processing device provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0356] like Fig.13 As shown, the signal processing device in the embodiment of the present application includes at least two Figure 6 The signal processing system shown, and the input signals of the at least two signal processing systems are derived from the splitting of the same signal.

[0357] Optionally, the signal processing device in the embodiment of the present application may further include at least two Fig. 7A , Figure 7B , Figure 7C The combination matrix shown or the above Fig. 9 , Fig. 10A , Fig. 10B , Fig.11 , Fig.12 The signal processing system shown, and the input signals of the at least two combination matrices or the at least two signal processing systems are derived from the splitting of the same signal.

[0358] Exemplarily, when the signal processing device in the embodiment of the present application includes at least two Fig. 7A When the combination matrix shown in FIG. 1 is used, the signal processing device is applied as described above. Figure 4 The LIDAR or LiDAR system shown, two Fig. 7A The 4×4 combination matrix in the array is arranged in parallel to form an optical phased array (OPA) with two rows of 8 transmitting antennas. The spacing d between two adjacent transmitting antennas in a single combination matrix is x The distance d between the two rows of 8 transmitting antennas is smaller than the wavelength λ, thereby suppressing the generation of interference grating lobes. y The wavelength is larger than λ, and the grating lobes generated by interference are used to obtain the effect of multi-beam.

[0359] The far-field distribution of the optical phased array with eight transmitting antennas in the two rows is formed by the diffraction and interference superposition of multiple beams in the far field, which is determined by the aperture size a of a single antenna, the number of one-dimensional array elements N, and the array element spacing d (d x d y ) is determined as shown below:

[0360]

[0361]

[0362]

[0363] Among them, x and y represent two orthogonal directions respectively. The adjacent array elements are at an angle θ x and θ y The phase difference at s is the scanning angle. x is the array element spacing in the x direction, d y is the array element spacing in the y direction. x represents the angle in the x direction, θ y represents the angle in the y direction, θ sx Indicates the scanning angle in the x direction.

[0364] The parameters set in this example can be shown in Table 8 below:

[0365] Table 8

[0366]

[0367]

[0368] By the above Fig. 7A From the description of the phase difference in the transmission signal, we can see that the phase difference of the transmission signal is There are 8 cases, namely ±π / 8, ±3π / 8, ±5π / 8, and ±7π / 8. Therefore, substituting the formula in this example can obtain the far-field light field diagrams at the corresponding eight angles.

[0369] For details, please refer to Fig.14 , Fig.14 A schematic diagram of the effect of a far-field light field provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0370] like Fig.14 As shown, the horizontal axis is the y direction, and the vertical axis is the x direction. From left to right and from top to bottom, far-field light field diagrams with pointing angles of 61.04°, 38.68°, 22.02°, 7.18°, -7.18°, -22.02°, -38.68°, and -61.04° are given respectively. It can be seen from the far-field light field diagram that the signal processing device in this example can realize an 8-line laser radar to achieve angular resolution in the x and y directions. At the same time, the signal processing device can be structurally expanded to obtain more beams to achieve the effect of a multi-line laser radar.

[0371] Through the embodiments of the present application, the above Figure 6 , Fig. 7A , Figure 7B , Figure 7C , Fig. 9 , Fig. 10A , Fig. 10B , Fig.11 , Fig.12 The signal processing system shown is expanded to obtain more beams and achieve the effect of a multi-beam lidar.

[0372] See also Fig.15 , Fig.15 A schematic diagram of the structure of a signal processing device provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0373] like Fig.15 As shown, the signal processing device in the embodiment of the present application includes at least two Figure 6 The signal processing system shown, and the at least two signal processing systems are arranged in a two-dimensional direction.

[0374] Optionally, the signal processing device in the embodiment of the present application may further include at least two Fig. 7A , Figure 7B, Figure 7C The combination matrix shown or the above Fig. 9 , Fig. 10A , Fig. 10B , Fig.11 , Fig.12 The signal processing system shown, and the at least two signal processing systems are arranged in a two-dimensional direction.

[0375] Through the embodiments of the present application, the above Figure 6 , Fig. 7A , Figure 7B , Figure 7C , Fig. 9 , Fig. 10A , Fig. 10B , Fig.11 , Fig.12 The signal processing systems shown are arranged in an extended manner, and the signal processing systems in the extended arrangement are independent of each other, and multiple beams can be obtained simultaneously, thereby increasing the number of beams of the signal processing device.

[0376] The present application provides a chip, which includes the signal processing system or signal processing device provided by the present application.

[0377] The present application provides a radar or radar system, which includes the signal processing system or signal processing device or the above chip provided in the present application. It should be noted that there may be a variety of intelligent sensors integrated with sensors. When the above intelligent sensor includes a millimeter wave detection function, the above intelligent sensor can also be called a millimeter wave radar or a millimeter wave radar system; or, when the above intelligent sensor includes a frequency modulated continuous wave detection function, the above intelligent sensor can also be called a laser radar or a laser radar system.

[0378] The present application provides a terminal device, which includes a signal processing system or a signal processing device provided by the present application. For example, the terminal device can be a transportation tool, such as a car, a truck, an aircraft, a drone, a slow transport vehicle, a spacecraft, or a ship, etc., which can be used in any possible scenario, and can also be any equipment that can carry a detection device, such as a surveying and mapping device. One or more signal processing systems or signal processing devices provided by the present application are deployed on the terminal device.

[0379] The above is only a specific implementation of the present application, but the protection scope of the present application is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art who is familiar with the present technical field can easily think of changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the present application, which should be included in the protection scope of the present application. Therefore, the protection scope of the present application should be based on the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A signal processing system, characterized in that: include: a first beam splitting unit, a second beam splitting unit, a third beam splitting unit, a first phase shifting unit, and at least two signal processing units, wherein the at least two signal processing units include a first signal processing unit having M input ports and N output ports and a second signal processing unit having P input ports and Q output ports; wherein: The first beam splitting unit is used to split one signal into at least two signals, wherein the at least two signals include a first signal and a second signal; The second beam splitting unit is used to split the first signal into M sub-signals, and the M sub-signals are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit; The first phase shift unit is used to perform phase shift processing on the second signal to obtain a third signal; The third beam splitting unit is used to split the third signal into P sub-signals, and the P sub-signals are respectively input into the P input ports of the second signal processing unit; The N output ports of the first signal processing unit and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit are arranged crosswise, and the M, the N, the P, and the Q are integers greater than or equal to 2.

2. The signal processing system according to claim 1, characterized in that The phase differences of signals outputted by any two groups of adjacent ports among the N output ports and the Q output ports that are cross-arranged are the same.

3. The signal processing system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The signal processing system further comprises: a first switch array and a second switch array; The first switch array is used to control the on or off of the M-path signals; The second switch array is used to control the on or off of the P path signal.

4. The signal processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The first signal processing unit and / or the second signal processing unit is at least one of the following in a matrix including a coupler and a phase shifter: Butler matrix, Noren matrix, Blass matrix.

5. The signal processing system according to claim 4, characterized in that When the M, the N, the P, and the Q are the same, the number of couplers in the at least two signal processing units is: N log2N or 2 n n; Where N = 2 n , wherein n is a positive integer.

6. The signal processing system according to claim 4, characterized in that When the M, the N, the P, and the Q are the same, the number of phase shifters in the at least two signal processing units is: N(log2N-1) or 2 n (n-1); Where N = 2 n , wherein n is a positive integer.

7. The signal processing system according to claim 4, characterized in that: When the M, the N, the P, and the Q are the same, the number of crossover points in the at least two signal processing units is: Where N = 2 n , wherein n is a positive integer.

8. The signal processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: The signal processing system also includes a multiplexer; The multiplexer is used to combine multiple signals with different wavelengths into one signal and transmit it to the first beam splitting unit; Among them, the M sub-signals corresponding to the signals of each type of wavelength contained in the first signal are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit, and the P sub-signals corresponding to the signals of each type of wavelength contained in the third signal are respectively input into the P input ports of the second signal processing unit.

9. The signal processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: The second beam splitting unit includes a first demultiplexer, the third beam splitting unit includes a second demultiplexer, and the signal processing system further includes a multiplexer; The multiplexer is used to combine multiple signals with different wavelengths into one signal and transmit it to the first beam splitting unit; The first demultiplexer is used to separate the first signal according to wavelength categories; The second demultiplexer is used to separate the third signal according to wavelength categories; The signals of various wavelengths included in the first signal are respectively input to the input port of the first signal processing unit, and the signals of various wavelengths included in the third signal are respectively input to the input port of the second signal processing unit.

10. A signal processing system, characterized in that: include: a first beam splitting unit, a second beam splitting unit, a fourth beam splitting unit, a second phase shifting unit, and at least two signal processing units, wherein the at least two signal processing units include a first signal processing unit having M input ports and N output ports and a second signal processing unit having P input ports and Q output ports; wherein: The first beam splitting unit is used to split one signal into at least two signals, wherein the at least two signals include a first signal and a second signal; The second beam splitting unit is used to split the first signal into M sub-signals, and the M sub-signals are respectively input into the M input ports of the first signal processing unit; The fourth beam splitting unit is used to split the second signal into 2P path signals; The second phase shift unit is used to perform phase shift processing on the 2P path signal, and the 2P path signal after phase shift is respectively coupled to the P input ports of the second signal processing unit by switch control; Alternatively, the 2P path signal is transmitted to the second phase shift unit through switch control, and the second phase shift unit is used to perform phase shift processing on the 2P path signal, and the 2P path signal after phase shift is respectively coupled to P input ports of the second signal processing unit; The N output ports of the first signal processing unit and the Q output ports of the second signal processing unit are arranged crosswise, and the M, the N, the P, and the Q are integers greater than or equal to 2.

11. A signal processing device, characterized in that: The method comprises at least two signal processing systems according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein input signals of the at least two signal processing systems are derived from split beams of the same signal.

12. A signal processing device, characterized in that: The method comprises at least two signal processing systems according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the at least two signal processing systems are arranged in a two-dimensional direction.

13. A chip, characterized in that: The chip includes the signal processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, or the signal processing device according to any one of claims 11 to 12.

14. A radar, characterized in that: The radar comprises the signal processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, or the signal processing device according to any one of claims 11 to 12, or the chip according to claim 13.

15. A terminal device, characterized in that: The terminal device comprises the signal processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, or the signal processing device according to any one of claims 11 to 12, or the chip according to claim 13, or the radar according to claim 14.

16. A vehicle end, characterized in that: The vehicle end includes the signal processing system described in any one of claims 1 to 10, or the signal processing device described in any one of claims 11 to 12, or the chip described in claim 13, or the radar described in claim 14, or the terminal device described in claim 15.

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