Method and apparatus for scalable 2-D joint phase-time array and beamforming operations

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a 5G communication system or a 6G communication system that supports higher data rates beyond 4G communication systems such as long term evolution (LTE). A scalable 2D joint phase-time array (JPTA) supports multiple simultaneous RF beams without sacrificing array gain. The 2D JPTA includes M antenna groups, each antenna group including N antennas, each antenna coupled to one of the N phase shifters. The array includes M delay elements configured to apply a time delay to a first signal to be transmitted by one of the antenna groups, while each phase shifter in the group phase shifts the time-delayed first signal and feeds the phase-shifted and time-delayed first signal to a corresponding antenna, or applying a time delay to a second signal received from the group while each phase shifter phase shifts a third signal received from the antenna, the second signal being a combination of the phase shifted third signals. The time delay produces a beam spread in a first dimension of the array to form a plurality of beams in different directions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to antenna arrays in wireless communication systems. Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for scalably arranging antenna elements of a 2D antenna array into groups and setting shared time delays to facilitate combining vertical beam steering and horizontal beam spreading to generate frequency-dependent beam spreading. Background Art

[0002] Taking into account the development of wireless communication from generation to generation, technologies mainly used for services targeted at humans, such as voice calls, multimedia services and data services, have been developed. Following the commercialization of 5G (5th generation) communication systems, it is expected that the number of connected devices will grow exponentially. These will be increasingly connected to communication networks. Examples of connected things can include vehicles, robots, drones, household appliances, displays, smart sensors connected to various infrastructures, construction machinery and factory equipment. It is expected that mobile devices will develop in various form factors, such as augmented reality glasses, virtual reality headsets and hologram devices. In order to provide various services by connecting hundreds of billions of devices and things in the 6G (6th generation) era, efforts are being made to develop improved 6G communication systems. For these reasons, 6G communication systems are referred to as super 5G systems.

[0003] The 6G communication system, which is expected to be commercialized around 2030, will have a peak data rate of terabit (1,000 gigabits) per second (bps) and a radio latency of less than 100 microseconds, and will therefore be 50 times faster than the 5G communication system and have 1 / 10 the radio latency of the 5G communication system.

[0004] In order to achieve such high data rates and ultra-low latency, it has been considered to implement 6G communication systems in the terahertz (THz) band (e.g., 95 gigahertz (GHz) to 3THz band). It is expected that since the path loss and atmospheric absorption in the terahertz band are more serious than those in the millimeter wave band introduced in 5G, technologies that can ensure the signal transmission distance (i.e., coverage range) will become more critical. As the main technologies for ensuring coverage, it is necessary to develop radio frequency (RF) elements, antennas, novel waveforms with better coverage than orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), beamforming and massive multiple input multiple output (MIMO), full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas and multi-antenna transmission technologies such as massive antennas. In addition, new technologies for improving terahertz band signal coverage have been discussed, such as lenses and antennas based on metamaterials, orbital angular momentum (OAM) and reconfigurable smart surfaces (RIS).

[0005] Furthermore, to improve spectrum efficiency and overall network performance, the following technologies have been developed for 6G communication systems: full-duplex technology, enabling uplink and downlink transmissions to use the same frequency resources simultaneously; network technology, enabling the integrated utilization of satellites, high-altitude platform stations (HAPS), and other systems; improved network architecture, supporting mobile base stations and enabling network operation optimization and automation; dynamic spectrum sharing technology with conflict avoidance based on spectrum usage prediction; the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in wireless communications, improving overall network operations by leveraging AI and internalizing end-to-end AI support functions during the 6G design phase; and next-generation distributed computing technology, overcoming the limitations of UE computing capabilities by enabling ultra-high-performance communication and computing resources on the network, such as mobile edge computing (MEC) and the cloud. Furthermore, efforts are continuing to strengthen connectivity between devices, optimize networks, promote the softwareization of network entities, and increase the openness of wireless communications by designing new protocols for use in 6G communication systems, developing mechanisms for implementing hardware-based security environments and secure data usage, and developing technologies for maintaining privacy.

[0006] It is expected that research and development of 6G communication systems, including hyperconnectivity in human-to-machine (P2M) and machine-to-machine (M2M), will enable the next hyperconnected experience. In particular, it is expected that services such as truly immersive extended reality (XR), high-fidelity mobile holograms, and digital twins can be provided through 6G communication systems. In addition, services such as remote surgery for enhanced safety and reliability, industrial automation, and emergency response will be provided through 6G communication systems, allowing these technologies to be applied in various fields such as industry, medical care, automobiles, and home appliances.

[0007] In order to meet the demand for wireless data services that has increased since the deployment of 4G communication systems, and to realize various vertical applications, 5G / NR communication systems have been developed and are currently being deployed. 5G / NR communication systems are considered to be implemented in higher frequency (millimeter wave) bands (e.g., 28 GHz or 60 GHz bands) to achieve higher data rates, or in lower frequency bands (e.g., 6 GHz) to achieve robust coverage and mobility support. In order to reduce the propagation loss of radio waves and increase the transmission distance, beamforming, massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, analog beamforming, and massive antenna technology are discussed in 5G / NR communication systems.

[0008] Furthermore, in 5G / NR communication systems, system network improvements are being developed based on advanced small cells, cloud radio access networks (RAN), ultra-dense networks, device-to-device (D2D) communication, wireless backhaul, mobile networks, coordinated communications, coordinated multipoint (CoMP), and receiver-side interference cancellation.

[0009] Analog beamforming systems have been widely used in wireless communication systems to overcome excessive path loss. The challenge with analog beamforming systems is that beamforming is implemented in the time domain. Therefore, typically only one beam can be formed at a time. This limits beam pairing and beam tracking capabilities when multiple users in a cell want to connect to the base station simultaneously due to the beam switching overhead. This is also challenging for the uplink in time division duplex (TDD) systems because users are only assigned to transmit for short periods of time. A multi-beam system is needed that supports multiple simultaneous radio frequency (RF) beams without sacrificing antenna array gain. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Technical Solution

[0011] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods and apparatus that facilitate the design of a scalable two-dimensional (2D) joint phase-time array (JPTA) that supports multiple simultaneous RF beams without sacrificing antenna array gain.

[0012] In one embodiment, a 2D antenna array is provided, comprising a first number (M) of antenna groups, each antenna group comprising a second number (N) of antenna elements and N phase shifters, each antenna element operably coupled to a corresponding one of the phase shifters. The 2D antenna array further comprises M delay elements, each delay element operably coupled to a corresponding one of the antenna groups and configured to apply a corresponding time delay to a first signal to be transmitted by the corresponding antenna group, wherein each phase shifter in the corresponding antenna group is configured to apply a corresponding phase shift to the time-delayed first signal and feed the phase-shifted and time-delayed first signal to the corresponding antenna element. Each delay element is further configured to apply a corresponding time delay to a second signal received from the corresponding antenna group, wherein each phase shifter in the corresponding antenna group is configured to apply a corresponding phase shift to a third signal received from the corresponding antenna element, and wherein the second signal is a combination of the phase-shifted third signals. The antenna groups are further configured to form multiple beams based on the phase shifts and time delays. The time delay is configured to produce beam spreading in a first dimension of the 2D antenna array such that the multiple beams are formed in different directions.

[0013] In another embodiment, a method for operating a 2D antenna array is provided, the 2D antenna array comprising a first number (M) of antenna groups, each antenna group comprising a second number (N) of antenna elements and N phase shifters, each antenna element being operably coupled to a corresponding one of the phase shifters, and M delay elements, each delay element being operably coupled to a corresponding one of the antenna groups. The method comprises the steps of: applying a corresponding time delay by each delay element to a first signal to be transmitted by the corresponding antenna group, applying a corresponding phase shift by each phase shifter in the corresponding antenna group to the time-delayed first signal and feeding the phase-shifted and time-delayed first signal to the corresponding antenna element, or applying a corresponding time delay by each delay element to a second signal received from the corresponding antenna group, and applying a corresponding phase shift by each phase shifter in the corresponding antenna group to a third signal received from the corresponding antenna element, wherein the second signal is a combination of the phase-shifted third signals. The method also comprises forming a plurality of beams based on the phase shifts and the time delays. The time delay is configured to produce beam spreading in a first dimension of the 2D antenna array such that the multiple beams are formed in different directions.

[0014] In another embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided. The non-transitory computer-readable medium is configured to store instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause a 2D antenna array to include a first number (M) of antenna groups and M delay elements, each antenna group including a second number (N) of antenna elements and N phase shifters, each antenna element operably coupled to a corresponding one of the phase shifters, each delay element operably coupled to a corresponding one of the antenna groups to apply a corresponding time delay to a first signal to be transmitted by the corresponding antenna group via each of the delay elements, apply a corresponding phase shift to the time-delayed first signal via each of the phase shifters in the corresponding antenna group, and feed the phase-shifted and time-delayed first signal to the corresponding antenna element. The instructions, when executed, also cause the 2D antenna array to apply a corresponding time delay to a second signal received from the corresponding antenna group via each of the delay elements, and apply a corresponding phase shift to a third signal received from the corresponding antenna element via each of the phase shifters in the corresponding antenna group, wherein the second signal is a combination of the phase-shifted third signals. The instructions, when executed, further cause a 2D antenna array to form a plurality of beams based on phase shifts and time delays configured to produce beam spreading in a first dimension of the 2D antenna array such that the plurality of beams are formed in different directions.

[0015] Other technical features may be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following drawings, descriptions, and claims.

[0016] Before proceeding with the detailed description below, it may be advantageous to set forth the definitions of certain words and phrases used throughout this patent document. The term "coupling" and its derivatives refer to any direct or indirect communication between two or more elements, regardless of whether these elements are in physical contact with each other. The terms "send," "receive," and "communicate," and their derivatives encompass both direct and indirect communication. The terms "include," "comprise," and their derivatives mean, but are not limited to. The term "or" is inclusive, meaning and / or. The phrase "associated with..." and its derivatives mean including, included within, interconnected with, including, contained within, connected to or connected with, coupled to or coupled with, communicable with, collaborative with, interlaced, juxtaposed, close to, bound to, bound with, having, having the nature of, having a relationship to, or with, etc. The term "controller" means any device, system, or part thereof that controls at least one operation. Such a controller can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and software and / or firmware. The functions associated with any particular controller can be centralized or distributed, whether local or remote. The phrase "at least one of" when used with a list of items means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items can be used, and only one item in the list may be required. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" includes any of the following combinations: A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, and A and B and C. As used herein, phrases such as "the first (1) st )" and "Second (2 nd ), or terms such as “first” and “second” may be used to simply distinguish a corresponding component from another component and do not limit the components in other respects (e.g., importance or order). It should be understood that if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being “coupled with another element (e.g., a second element)”, “coupled to another element (e.g., a second element)”, “connected with another element (e.g., a second element)”, or “connected to another element (e.g., a second element)”, with or without the term “operably” or “communicatively”, it means that the element may be coupled with another element directly (e.g., by wire), wirelessly, or via a third element.

[0017] As used herein, the term "module" may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with other terms (e.g., "logic," "logic block," "component," or "circuit"). A module may be a single integrated component or its smallest unit or component adapted to perform one or more functions. For example, according to an embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0018] In addition, the various functions described below can be implemented or supported by one or more computer programs, each of which is formed of a computer-readable program code and embodied in a computer-readable medium. The terms "application" and "program" refer to one or more computer programs, software components, instruction sets, processes, functions, objects, classes, instances, related data, or a portion thereof that are suitable for implementation in a suitable computer-readable program code. The phrase "computer-readable program code" includes any type of computer code, including source code, object code, and executable code. The phrase "computer-readable medium" includes any type of medium that can be accessed by a computer, such as a read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), a hard drive, a compact disc (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), or any other type of memory. "Non-transitory" computer-readable media excludes wired, wireless, optical, or other communication links that transmit temporary electrical or other signals. Non-transitory computer-readable media include media in which data can be permanently stored and media in which data can be stored and later rewritten, such as rewritable optical discs or erasable memory devices.

[0019] Definitions for certain other words and phrases are provided throughout this patent document. Those of ordinary skill in the art should understand that in many, if not most, instances, such definitions apply to prior, as well as future uses of such defined words and phrases.

[0020] The discussion of 5G systems and the frequency bands associated therewith is provided for reference, as certain embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in 5G systems. However, the present disclosure is not limited to 5G systems or the frequency bands associated therewith, and embodiments of the present disclosure may be used in conjunction with any frequency band. For example, aspects of the present disclosure may also be applied to the deployment of 5G communication systems, 6G, or even later versions that may utilize terahertz (THz) frequency bands.

[0021] Technical Effects

[0022] Aspects of the present disclosure are to address at least the above-mentioned problems and / or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below. Therefore, one aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an efficient communication method in a wireless communication system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and its advantages, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts:

[0024] Figure 1 An example wireless network according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0025] Figure 2 An example gNB according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0026] Figure 3 An example UE according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0027] Figure 4 An example phased array system using TDD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0028] Figure 5 An example of a joint phase-time array architecture according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0029] Figure 6 shows an example of achievable behavior of JPTA-based beamforming according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 7 shows an example 2D JPTA receiver architecture according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 8 shows an example 2D JPTA transmitter architecture according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 9 shows a first example antenna grouping according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 10 shows a second example antenna grouping according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 11 shows a third example antenna grouping according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figures 12A-12B shows an example of a larger 2D array formed by tiled packing of antenna groups according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figures 13A-13B shows another example of a larger 2D array formed by tiled packing of antenna groups according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0037] Figure 14 An example process for the operation of a scalable 2D JPTA according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0038] Figure 15 A user equipment (UE) according to embodiments as disclosed herein is shown.

[0039] Figure 16 A base station (BS) according to embodiments as disclosed herein is shown.

[0040] Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0041] Aspects of the present disclosure are to address at least the above-mentioned problems and / or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below. Therefore, one aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a terminal in a wireless communication system and a communication method thereof. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Discussed below Figures 1 to 16 The various embodiments used to describe the principles of the present disclosure in this patent document are illustrative only and should not be interpreted in any way as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of the present disclosure can be implemented in any appropriately arranged system or device.

[0043] Embodiments of the present disclosure recognize that a joint phase-and-timed array (JPTA) architecture can allow multiple UEs to connect to a base station simultaneously, reducing the need for time division multiplexing. This allows the base station to allocate more time to each UE, increasing the SNR at the receiver. This allows for support for longer ranges, higher data rates, or reduced UE transmit power requirements to reduce UE power consumption.

[0044] However, embodiments of the present disclosure further recognize that the implementation of a JPTA architecture requiring one delay element per antenna element can significantly increase system complexity, cost, and power consumption of the base station. Furthermore, adding these delay elements to a 2D array can violate spacing constraints in mmWave systems, preventing the JPTA architecture from being scalable to 2D arrays.

[0045] Therefore, embodiments of the present disclosure arrange multiple antenna elements into groups that share a single delay element. Each antenna element is connected to its own RF front-end circuitry, and the shared delay element is configured for beam expansion to support multiple beams in different directions. This architecture allows for combining vertical beam steering and horizontal beam expansion to generate frequency-dependent beam expansion.

[0046] The following Figure 1-3 Various embodiments are described that are implemented in a wireless communication system and utilizing Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) or Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) communication techniques. Figure 1-3 The description is not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in which different embodiments may be implemented. Different embodiments of the disclosure may be implemented in any suitably arranged communications system.

[0047] Figure 1 An example wireless network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1 The embodiment of the wireless network shown is for illustration only. Other embodiments of the wireless network 100 may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, the wireless network includes gNB 101 (e.g., base station, BS), gNB 102, and gNB 103. gNB 101 communicates with gNB 102 and gNB 103. gNB 101 also communicates with at least one network 130, such as the Internet, a proprietary Internet Protocol (IP) network, or other data network.

[0049] gNB 102 provides wireless broadband access to network 130 for a first plurality of user equipment (UEs) within gNB 102's coverage area 120. The first plurality of UEs includes UE 111, which may be located in a small business; UE 112, which may be located in an enterprise; UE 113, which may be a WiFi hotspot; UE 114, which may be located in a first residence; UE 115, which may be located in a second residence; and UE 116, which may be a mobile device such as a cellular phone, a wireless laptop, a wireless PDA, etc. gNB 103 provides wireless broadband access to network 130 for a second plurality of UEs within gNB 103's coverage area 125. The second plurality of UEs includes UE 115 and UE 116. In some embodiments, one or more of gNBs 101-103 may communicate with each other and with UEs 111-116 using 5G / NR, Long Term Evolution (LTE), Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A), WiMAX, WiFi, or other wireless communication technologies.

[0050] Depending on the network type, the term "base station" or "BS" can refer to any component (or collection of components) configured to provide wireless access to a network, such as a transmission point (TP), a transmission-reception point (TRP), an enhanced base station (eNodeB or eNB), a 5G / NR base station (gNB), a macro cell, a micro cell, a WiFi access point (AP), or other wireless enabling devices. A base station can provide wireless access according to one or more wireless communication protocols (e.g., 5G / NR Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) NR, Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE Advanced (LTE-A), High Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), Wi-Fi 802.11 a / b / g / n / ac, etc.). For convenience, the terms "BS" and "TRP" are used interchangeably in this patent document to refer to network infrastructure components that provide wireless access to remote terminals. In addition, depending on the network type, the term "user equipment" or "UE" can refer to any component, such as a "mobile station," "subscriber station," "remote terminal," "wireless terminal," "reception point," or "user equipment." For convenience, the terms "user equipment" and "UE" are used in this patent document to refer to a remote wireless device that wirelessly accesses a BS, whether the UE is a mobile device (such as a mobile phone or smartphone) or what is generally considered a fixed device (such as a desktop computer or vending machine).

[0051] Dashed lines illustrate the approximate extents of coverage areas 120 and 125, which are shown as approximately circular for purposes of illustration and explanation only. It should be clearly understood that coverage areas associated with a gNB, such as coverage areas 120 and 125, may have other shapes, including irregular shapes, depending on the configuration of the gNB and variations in the radio environment associated with natural and man-made obstacles.

[0052] although Figure 1 An example of a wireless network is shown, but Figure 1 Various changes may be made. For example, the wireless network may include any number of gNBs and any number of UEs in any suitable arrangement. Furthermore, gNB 101 may communicate directly with any number of UEs and provide those UEs with wireless broadband access to network 130. Similarly, each of gNBs 102-103 may communicate directly with network 130 and provide UEs with direct wireless broadband access to network 130. Furthermore, gNBs 101, 102, and / or 103 may provide access to other or additional external networks, such as an external telephone network or other types of data networks.

[0053] Figure 2 An example gNB 102 is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2The embodiment of the gNB 102 shown in FIGURE 1 is for illustration only, and Figure 1 gNBs 101 and 103 may have the same or similar configurations. However, gNBs have a variety of configurations, and Figure 2 The scope of this disclosure is not limited to any particular implementation of a gNB.

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, gNB 102 includes multiple antennas 205a-205n, multiple transceivers 210a-210n, a controller / processor 225, memory 230, and a backhaul or network interface 235.

[0055] The transceivers 210a-210n receive incoming RF signals from the antennas 205a-205n, such as signals transmitted by UEs in the network 100. The transceivers 210a-210n downconvert the incoming RF signals to generate IF or baseband signals. The IF or baseband signals are processed by receive (RX) processing circuitry in the transceivers 210a-210n and / or the controller / processor 225, which generates processed baseband signals by filtering, decoding, and / or digitizing the baseband or IF signals. The controller / processor 225 may further process the baseband signals.

[0056] Transmit (TX) processing circuitry in the transceivers 210a-210n and / or the controller / processor 225 receives analog or digital data (such as voice data, web data, email, or interactive video game data) from the controller / processor 225. The TX processing circuitry encodes, multiplexes, and / or digitizes the outgoing baseband data to generate processed baseband or IF signals. The transceivers 210a-210n upconvert the baseband or IF signals into RF signals that are transmitted via the antennas 205a-205n.

[0057] The controller / processor 225 may include one or more processors or other processing devices that control the overall operation of the gNB 102. For example, the controller / processor 225 may control the reception of uplink (UL) channel signals and the transmission of downlink (DL) channel signals by the transceivers 210a-210n in accordance with well-known principles. The controller / processor 225 may also support additional functionality, such as more advanced wireless communication functionality. For example, the controller / processor 225 may support beamforming or directional routing operations, in which outgoing / incoming signals from / to the multiple antennas 205a-205n are weighted differently to effectively steer the outgoing signals in a desired direction. The controller / processor 225 may support any of a variety of other functions within the gNB 102.

[0058] The controller / processor 225 is also capable of running programs and other processes, such as an OS, that reside in the memory 230. The controller / processor 225 is capable of moving data into or out of the memory 230 as required by the running processes.

[0059] The controller / processor 225 is also coupled to a backhaul or network interface 235. The backhaul or network interface 235 allows the gNB 102 to communicate with other devices or systems over a backhaul connection or over a network. The interface 235 can support communication over any suitable wired or wireless connection. For example, when the gNB 102 is implemented as part of a cellular communication system (such as a cellular communication system supporting 5G / NR, LTE, or LTE-A), the interface 235 can allow the gNB 102 to communicate with other gNBs over a wired or wireless backhaul connection. When the gNB 102 is implemented as an access point, the interface 235 can allow the gNB 102 to communicate over a wired or wireless local area network or with a larger network (such as the Internet) over a wired or wireless connection. The interface 235 includes any suitable structure that supports communication over a wired or wireless connection, such as Ethernet or a transceiver.

[0060] Memory 230 is coupled to controller / processor 225. A portion of memory 230 may include RAM, and another portion of memory 230 may include flash memory or other ROM.

[0061] although Figure 2 An example of a gNB 102 is shown, but the Figure 2 For example, gNB 102 may include any number of Figure 2 Each component shown in . In addition, Figure 2 The various components in may be combined, further subdivided, or omitted, and additional components may be added according to specific needs.

[0062] Figure 3 An example UE 116 is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 The embodiment of UE 116 shown is for illustration only, and Figure 1 UEs 111-115 may have the same or similar configurations. However, UEs have a variety of configurations, and Figure 3 The scope of this disclosure is not limited to any particular implementation of a UE.

[0063] like Figure 3As shown, UE 116 includes antenna 305, transceiver 310, and microphone 320. UE 116 also includes speaker 330, processor 340, input / output (I / O) interface (IF) 345, input 350, display 355, and memory 360. Memory 360 includes operating system (OS) 361 and one or more applications 362.

[0064] Transceiver 310 receives incoming RF signals from antenna 305, transmitted by a gNB of network 100. Transceiver(s) 310 downconvert the incoming RF signals to generate an intermediate frequency (IF) or baseband signal. The IF or baseband signal is processed by RX processing circuitry within transceiver(s) 310 and / or processor 340, which filters, decodes, and / or digitizes the baseband or IF signal to generate a processed baseband signal. The RX processing circuitry transmits the processed baseband signal to speaker 330 (e.g., for voice data) or to processor 340 for processing (e.g., for web browsing data).

[0065] The TX processing circuitry in the transceiver(s) 310 and / or processor 340 receives analog or digital voice data from the microphone 320, or receives other outgoing baseband data (such as web data, email, or interactive video game data) from the processor 340. The TX processing circuitry encodes, multiplexes, and / or digitizes the outgoing baseband data to generate a processed baseband or IF signal. The transceiver(s) 310 up-converts the baseband or IF signal to an RF signal that is transmitted via the antenna 305.

[0066] The processor 340 can include one or more processors or other processing devices and run an OS 361 stored in the memory 360 to control the overall operation of the UE 116. For example, the processor 340 can control the reception of DL channel signals and the transmission of UL channel signals by the transceiver(s) 310 according to well-known principles. In some embodiments, the processor 340 includes at least one microprocessor or microcontroller.

[0067] Processor 340 is also capable of running other processes and programs residing in memory 360. Processor 340 can move data into or out of memory 360 as needed by the running processes. In some embodiments, processor 340 is configured to run applications 362 based on OS 361 or in response to signals received from the gNB or operator. Processor 340 is also coupled to I / O interface 345, which provides UE 116 with the ability to connect to other devices such as laptops and handheld computers. I / O interface 345 is the communication path between these peripherals and processor 340.

[0068] The processor 340 is also coupled to an input 350 including, for example, a touch screen, a keyboard, etc., and a display 355. An operator of the UE 116 can use the input 350 to enter data into the UE 116. The display 355 can be a liquid crystal display, a light emitting diode display, or other display capable of presenting text and / or at least limited graphics (such as from a website).

[0069] Memory 360 is coupled to processor 340. A portion of memory 360 may include random access memory (RAM), and another portion of memory 360 may include flash memory or other read-only memory (ROM).

[0070] although Figure 3 An example of a UE 116 is shown, but the Figure 3 Make various changes. For example, you can combine, further subdivide or omit Figure 3 The various components in the embodiment of the present invention may be combined, and additional components may be added as needed. As a specific example, the processor 340 may be divided into multiple processors, such as one or more central processing units (CPUs) and one or more graphics processing units (GPUs). In another example, the transceiver 310 may include any number of transceivers and signal processing chains and may be connected to any number of antennas. In addition, although Figure 3 The UE 116 is shown configured as a mobile phone or smartphone, but the UE may be configured to operate as other types of mobile or stationary devices.

[0071] Figure 4 An example phased array system 400 using TDD according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. A mmWave base station (e.g., gNB 102) can employ phased array technology to achieve high beamforming gain to overcome the excessive path loss that can result from using mmWave frequencies. TDD systems rely on time division multiplexing of downlink and uplink traffic for multiple users over separate time slots.

[0072] Figure 5 An example of a joint phase-time array architecture 500 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The JPTA architecture 500 is capable of providing simultaneous service to several users in a local area with full beamforming gain, or providing simultaneous service in scenarios where link reliability and easy beam tracking are desired, or providing simultaneous service in scenarios where fast initial beam alignment is desired.

[0073] In this architecture, there is antenna elements, and the number of phase shifters and the number of delay elements are set to , that is, there is a phase shifter and a delay element coupled to each antenna. Antenna Designed to have delay variation ,in is the system bandwidth and is the maximum expected beam-sway in one direction from the center angle.

[0074] Figure 6 An example of achievable behavior of JPTA-based beamforming according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. , center angle as well as As can be seen in graph 604 , the design is able to achieve the desired frequency-dependent beam pattern within angular region 602 .

[0075] In this architecture, for At every angle near the receiver, there is a unique frequency region where peak beamforming gain is achieved. Therefore, in scenarios with rapid user movement, by observing the frequencies or subcarriers that achieve the highest signal power, the receiver can estimate the optimal beam direction or required beam correction to use at the transmitter. This architecture enables rapid beam alignment. Furthermore, when a user moves more than a 3dB beamwidth away on a frequency, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) does not drop completely to zero across the entire frequency band. Instead, the maximum beamforming gain is shifted to a different frequency. This can be beneficial because it enables smooth service degradation in the event of user movement, without the abrupt outages that occur with frequency-flat beamforming.

[0076] It should also be noted that in cell-edge situations, the UE transmitter typically must increase its transmit output power to the base station (i.e., gNB) to receive its signal above the sensitivity level. However, transmit power is limited by regulatory and absorption rate limits. Therefore, the UE may be power-constrained. JPTA allows multiple UEs to connect to the base station simultaneously, reducing the need for time division multiplexing. This essentially allows the base station to allocate more time to cell-edge UEs through JPTA, thereby achieving a higher SNR at the receiver side, which can support longer range, higher data rates, or reduced UE transmit power requirements to reduce power consumption.

[0077] However, this implementation of the JPTA architecture requires one delay element for each antenna element (as shown in architecture 500). A large number of antennas are deployed in commercial base stations, often arranged in a 2D antenna array. For example, such an array can have dimensions as large as 16×16. In this case, 256 delay elements would be required. Including one delay element per antenna in such an array significantly increases system complexity, cost, and power consumption.

[0078] 2D phased array systems may also require spacing close to λ / 2 between antenna elements. At millimeter wave frequencies, the wavelength is very short, which limits the size of the transceiver IC, because on average, the size of each channel may need to be less than λ / 2 × λ / 2 to make the 2D array scalable. Adding additional delay elements may violate this spacing constraint, preventing the JPTA architecture from being scalable to 2D arrays.

[0079] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a JPTA architecture that organizes antenna elements into groups so that multiple antennas can share a single delay element. Each antenna element is connected to its own RF front-end circuitry, such as a power amplifier (PA), a low-noise amplifier (LNA), and a phase shifter (PS), for RF signal amplification and phased array operation. There are multiple ways to group antennas, where each group can be arranged in multiple different horizontal and vertical dimensions based on system performance and integrated circuit partitioning.

[0080] Figure 7 An example 2D JPTA receiver architecture 700 is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, there are a total of antenna elements 702. They consist of antenna elements 702 with their own LNA and phase shifters. The signals received by the antennas are combined into RF signal. Use the local oscillator (LO) signal to The signal is down-converted to an intermediate frequency (IF). The signal from Each delay element 704 delays individually (which may be, for example, following Figure 5 delay values ​​shown in ). The time-delayed signals are then combined to form an IF signal. The IF signal can be sampled directly by a high-speed ADC 706, or can be further down-converted to baseband, and a baseband data converter can be used to sample in-phase (I) and quadrature-phase (Q) samples. Alternatively, The RF signal can be directly downconverted to baseband, and delays can be applied to the I and Q signals before being sampled using baseband data converters. For convenience, the examples of this disclosure use a high-speed ADC to sample the IF signal and process the digitized samples in the modem, but it will be appreciated that baseband conversion could be used instead.

[0081] Figure 8 An example 2D JPTA transmitter architecture 800 is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, there are a total of The baseband signal from the modem 804 is converted to an analog IF signal using a DAC 806. The analog IF signal is then split into The same IF signal. The IF signals are individually delayed by delay elements 808 (which may for example follow Figure 5 Using a local oscillator signal will The time-delayed IF signal is up-converted from IF to RF. The RF signal is fed to In each group, there are two antenna elements with their own PA and phase shifter. Antenna 802 is composed of For convenience, the following embodiments of the present disclosure are provided in terms of a JPTA receiver using an architecture such as the 2D JPTA receiver architecture 700, but it should be understood that corresponding JPTA transmitters for these embodiments can be constructed based on the 2D JPTA transmitter architecture 800.

[0082] Figure 9 A first example antenna grouping 900 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In this example, N=4 antenna elements 902 arranged in 2 rows in the horizontal direction (H) and 2 columns in the vertical direction (V) (denoted as "2-H / 2-V") are grouped together. There are M=4 antenna groups 904, for a total of = 16 antennas. Following the 2D JPTA receiver architecture 700, the down-converted IF signal comes from each of the M = 4 groups, and the IF signal is individually time-delayed by M = 4 delay elements 906. The time-delayed signals are then combined to be fed into the ADC 908 for digitization. It should be understood that this is just an example, and each antenna group can be for any integer value. In format -H / -V arrangement, that is, each group can be arranged as a square of any size. In addition, 2D JPTA can be composed of any number M of such -H / -V group to form.

[0083] Figure 10 A second example antenna grouping 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In this example, N=4 antenna elements 1002 arranged in 4 rows horizontally and 1 column vertically (denoted as "4-H / 1-V") are grouped together. There are M=4 antenna groups 1004, for a total of = 16 antennas. Following the 2D JPTA receiver architecture 700, the down-converted IF signal comes from each of the M = 4 groups, and the IF signal is individually time-delayed by M = 4 delay elements 1006. The time-delayed signals are then combined to be fed into the ADC 1008 for digitization. It should be understood that this is just an example, and each antenna group can be for any integer value. In format -H / -V arrangement, i.e. each group can be arranged as a vertical column of any size. Alternatively, each antenna group can be arranged for any integer value In format -H / -V arrangement, i.e. each group can be arranged as a horizontal row of any size. In addition, 2D JPTA can be composed of any number M of such -H / -V or -H / -V group to form.

[0084] Figure 11 A third example antenna grouping 1100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In this example, N=8 antenna elements 1102 arranged in 4 rows horizontally and 2 columns vertically (denoted as "4-H / 2-V") are grouped together. There are M=4 antenna groups 1104, for a total of = 32 antennas. Following the 2D JPTA receiver architecture 700, the down-converted IF signal comes from each of the M = 4 groups, and the IF signal is individually time-delayed by M = 4 delay elements 1106. The time-delayed signals are then combined to be fed into the ADC 1108 for digitization. It should be understood that this is just an example, and each antenna group can be for any integer value. and by -H / -V format layout, where In addition, 2D JPTA can be composed of any number M of such -H / -V group to form.

[0085] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B An example of a larger 2D array 1200 formed by tiled packing of antenna groups according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 10Antenna grouping 1000. In this example, the M=4 antenna groups 1004 plus the M=4 time delay elements 1006 of the antenna grouping 1000 are packaged into a single integrated circuit (IC) package 1202 (i.e., they are implemented on a single chip). The package 1202 is then tiled to form a larger array 1200. Figure 12B As shown, the signals from each package are combined so that the combined output of the entire 256-element array is fed to ADC 1204 for digitization. Although this example is based on antenna grouping 1000, it should be understood that the same principles can be applied to other antenna groups, such as antenna groups 900 and 1100.

[0086] FIG. 13A to FIG. 13B Another example of a larger 2D array 1300 formed by tiled packing of antenna groups according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. This example is also based on Figure 10 In this example, the M=4 antenna groups 1004 of the antenna group 1000 are packaged into a single IC package 1302 without the time delay element 1006. The package 1302 is then tiled to form a larger array 1300 with the time delay element 1006 external to the antenna package 1302. Figure 13B As shown, the array 1300 consists of Y=4 rows of packages 1302 in the horizontal direction and X=4 columns of packages 1302 in the vertical direction. The signals coming out of each package (one output signal for each of the M antenna groups 1004 in the package) are combined column by column and fed to A shared time delay element 1006 is provided so that the combined signal of each column of antenna elements is delayed using the shared time delay element 1006 . The combined outputs of the time delay elements 1006 are then combined and fed to the ADC 1304 for digitization. Although this example is based on antenna grouping 1000, it should be understood that the same principles can be applied to other antenna groupings, such as antenna groups 900 and 1100.

[0087] Figure 14 An example process 1400 for operation of a scalable 2D JPTA according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 14Process 1400 is performed by a device equipped with a 2D antenna array, which may be a JPTA comprising a first number M of antenna groups and M delay elements, each delay element operatively coupled to a corresponding one of the antenna groups. Each of the M antenna groups comprises a second number N of antenna elements and N phase shifters, each antenna element operatively coupled to a corresponding one of the phase shifters. The 2D JPTA architecture may correspond to arrays 1200 or 1300, or any other suitable architecture. The antenna groups in the 2D JPTA architecture may correspond to any of antenna groups 900, 1000, or 1100, or any other suitable antenna groups. Figure 14 Process 1400 can be performed by a 5G / NR base station (e.g., gNB 102) or by any other suitable wireless communication device (e.g., a 6G and later base station).

[0088] For transmit beamforming operation, each delay element applies a corresponding time delay to a first signal to be transmitted by the antenna group corresponding to the delay element at step 1405. The first signal is generated by a modem and converted to an analog signal by a DAC before being provided to the delay element.

[0089] Next, each phase shifter in the antenna group applies a corresponding phase shift to the time-delayed first signal and feeds the phase-shifted and time-delayed first signal to the antenna element corresponding to the phase shifter (step 1410).

[0090] At step 1415, the antenna group forms multiple beams based on the phase shifts and time delays. In this case, the beams are transmit beams and are used to transmit the first signal. The time delays are configured to produce beam spreading in the first dimension of the 2D antenna array, resulting in multiple transmit beams formed in different directions. This allows for the combination of vertical beam steering and horizontal beam spreading to generate frequency-dependent beam spreading.

[0091] Referring now to step 1420, for receive beamforming operations, each phase shifter in each antenna group is configured to apply its corresponding phase shift to a third signal received from the antenna element corresponding to that phase shifter.

[0092] Next, each delay element applies a corresponding time delay to the second signal received from the antenna group corresponding to the delay element (step 1425).The second signal is a combination of the phase-shifted third signals output by the corresponding phase shifters.

[0093] Returning to step 1415, the antenna group forms multiple beams based on the phase shifts and time delays. However, in this case, the beams are receive beams and are used to receive the third signal. The time delays are again configured to produce beam spreading in the first dimension of the 2D antenna array, resulting in multiple receive beams formed in different directions. This allows for the combination of vertical beam steering and horizontal beam spreading to generate frequency-dependent beam spreading.

[0094] The above flowcharts illustrate example methods or processes that can be implemented according to the principles of the present disclosure, and various changes can be made to the methods or processes shown in the flowcharts. For example, although shown as a series of steps, various steps can overlap, occur in parallel, occur in a different order, or occur multiple times. In another example, steps can be omitted or replaced by other steps.

[0095] Figure 15 The structure of a UE according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0096] like Figure 15 As shown, the UE according to the embodiment may include a transceiver 1510, a memory 1520, and a processor 1530. The transceiver 1510, the memory 1520, and the processor 1530 of the UE may operate according to the communication method of the above-mentioned UE. However, the components of the UE are not limited thereto. For example, the UE may include more or fewer components than the above-mentioned components. In addition, the processor 1530, the transceiver 1510, and the memory 1520 may be implemented as a single chip. In addition, the processor 1530 may include at least one processor. In addition, Figure 15 The UE corresponds to Figure 1 and Figure 3 UE.

[0097] The transceiver 1510 is collectively referred to as a UE receiver and a UE transmitter, and can transmit and receive signals to and from a base station or a network entity. The signals transmitted to or received from the base station or network entity may include control information and data. The transceiver 1510 may include an RF transmitter for up-converting and amplifying the frequency of transmitted signals, and an RF receiver for amplifying low noise and down-converting the frequency of received signals. However, this is merely an example of the transceiver 1510, and the components of the transceiver 1510 are not limited to an RF transmitter and an RF receiver.

[0098] In addition, the transceiver 1510 may receive a signal through a wireless channel and output the signal to the processor 1530 , and transmit a signal output from the processor 1530 through a wireless channel.

[0099] The memory 1520 may store programs and data required for the operation of the UE. In addition, the memory 1520 may store control information or data included in a signal obtained by the UE. The memory 1520 may be a storage medium such as a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk, a CD-ROM, and a DVD, or a combination of storage media.

[0100] The processor 1530 may control a series of processes so that the UE operates as described above. For example, the transceiver 1510 may receive a data signal including a control signal transmitted by a base station or a network entity, and the processor 1530 may determine a result of receiving the control signal and the data signal transmitted by the base station or the network entity.

[0101] Figure 16 The structure of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0102] like Figure 16 As shown, the base station according to the embodiment may include a transceiver 1610, a memory 1620, and a processor 1630. The transceiver 1610, the memory 1620, and the processor 1630 of the base station may operate according to the communication method of the above-mentioned base station. However, the components of the base station are not limited thereto. For example, the base station may include more or fewer components than the above-mentioned components. In addition, the processor 1630, the transceiver 1610, and the memory 1620 may be implemented as a single chip. In addition, the processor 1630 may include at least one processor. In addition, Figure 16 The base station corresponds to Figure 1 and Figure 2 base station.

[0103] The transceiver 1610 is generally referred to as a base station receiver and a base station transmitter, and can send and receive signals to and from a terminal (UE) or a network entity. The signals sent to or received from the terminal or network entity may include control information and data. The transceiver 1610 may include an RF transmitter for up-converting and amplifying the frequency of the transmitted signal, and an RF receiver for amplifying low noise and down-converting the frequency of the received signal. However, this is merely an example of the transceiver 1610, and the components of the transceiver 1610 are not limited to the RF transmitter and the RF receiver.

[0104] In addition, the transceiver 1610 may receive a signal through a wireless channel and output a signal to the processor 1630 , and transmit a signal output from the processor 1630 through a wireless channel.

[0105] The memory 1620 may store programs and data required for the operation of the base station. In addition, the memory 1620 may store control information or data included in the signal obtained by the base station. The memory 1620 may be a storage medium such as a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk, a CD-ROM, and a DVD, or a combination of storage media.

[0106] The processor 1630 may control a series of processes so that the base station operates as described above. For example, the transceiver 1610 may receive a data signal including a control signal transmitted by a terminal, and the processor 1630 may determine a result of receiving the control signal and the data signal transmitted by the terminal.

[0107] The processors disclosed herein may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, as used herein (including the claims), the term "processor" may include various processing circuits, including at least one processor, wherein one or more of the at least one processor can be configured individually and / or collectively in a distributed manner to perform the various functions described herein. As used herein, when "processor," "at least one processor," and "one or more processors" are described as being configured to perform a number of functions, these terms cover (for example, but not limited to) situations where one processor performs some of the described functions and another processor performs other described functions, as well as situations where a single processor can perform all of the described functions. In addition, the at least one processor may include, for example, a combination of processors that perform the various described / disclosed functions in a distributed manner. The at least one processor can execute program instructions to implement or perform the various functions.

[0108] Although the present disclosure has been described using exemplary embodiments, various changes and modifications may be suggested to those skilled in the art. The present disclosure is intended to encompass such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the appended claims. Nothing in this application should be construed as implying that any particular element, step, or function is essential to the scope of the claims. The scope of a patented subject matter is defined by the claims.

[0109] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various illustrative logic blocks, modules, circuits, and steps described herein can be implemented as hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In order to clearly illustrate this interchangeability between hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in the form of their functional set. Whether such functional set is implemented as hardware or software depends on specific application and the design constraints imposed on the entire system. Technicians can implement the described functional set in different ways for each specific application, but such design decisions should not be interpreted as causing departure from the scope of the present application.

[0110] In the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure, all operations and messages may be selectively performed or omitted. Furthermore, the actions in each implementation need not be performed sequentially; the order of the actions may vary. Messages need not be sent sequentially; the order in which messages are sent may vary. Each operation and transmission of each message may be performed independently.

[0111] Although the figures illustrate different examples of user devices, various changes may be made to the figures. For example, the user devices may include any number of each component in any suitable arrangement. Generally, the figures do not limit the scope of the present disclosure to any particular configuration. Furthermore, although the figures illustrate operating environments in which various user device features disclosed in this patent document may be used, these features may be used in any other suitable system.

[0112] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits described in this application may be implemented or performed by a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, for example, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

[0113] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in this application can be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a combination thereof. The software module can reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. The storage medium is coupled to the processor so that the processor can read and write information from / to the storage medium. In an alternative embodiment, the storage medium can be integrated into the processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC. The ASIC can reside in a user terminal. In an alternative embodiment, the processor and storage medium can reside in a user terminal as discrete components.

[0114] In one or more designs, the functions may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, each function may be stored on or delivered via a computer-readable medium as one or more instructions or code. Computer-readable media includes both computer storage media and communication media, the latter including any medium that facilitates the transfer of a computer program from one place to another. Storage media can be any available medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0115] While the present disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A device for a two-dimensional (2D) antenna array, the device comprising: a first number (M) of antenna groups, each antenna group comprising a second number (N) of antenna elements and N phase shifters, each antenna element coupled to a corresponding one of the phase shifters; as well as M delay elements, each delay element is coupled to a corresponding one of the antenna groups and is configured as follows: applying a corresponding time delay to a first signal to be transmitted by the corresponding antenna group, wherein: Each phase shifter in the corresponding antenna group is configured to apply a corresponding phase shift to the time-delayed first signal and feed the phase shift and the time-delayed first signal to the corresponding antenna element, or applying the corresponding time delay to a second signal received from the corresponding antenna group, wherein: each phase shifter in the corresponding antenna group is configured to apply the corresponding phase shift to a third signal received from the corresponding antenna element; and said second signal being a combination of said phase-shifted third signals, wherein the antenna group is further configured to form a plurality of beams based on the phase shift and the time delay, and The time delay is configured to generate beam spreading in a first dimension of the 2D antenna array so that the multiple beams are formed in different directions.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The phase shifting is configured to produce beam steering of the plurality of beams in a second dimension of the 2D antenna array, and The beam spreading in the first dimension, combined with the beam steering in the second dimension, results in frequency-dependent beam spreading in the plurality of beams.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein The antenna elements of each antenna group are arranged in an equal number of rows along the first dimension of the 2D antenna array and in an equal number of columns along the second dimension of the 2D antenna array.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein The antenna elements of each antenna group are arranged in a column along the second dimension of the 2D antenna array.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The antenna elements of each antenna group are arranged in a third number (K) of rows along the first dimension of the 2D antenna array and a fourth number (L) of columns along the second dimension of the 2D antenna array, and K*L=N.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein: The M antenna groups and the corresponding M delay elements are provided in a single integrated circuit (IC), and The 2D antenna array also includes a plurality of such ICs.

7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein: The M antenna groups are provided in a single IC, the 2D antenna array comprising a plurality of such ICs arranged in a fifth number (Y) of rows along the first dimension of the 2D antenna array and a sixth number (X) of columns along the second dimension of the 2D antenna array, The 2D antenna array includes a total of M*X delay elements located outside the antenna group IC, The M of the M*X delay elements corresponds to each of the X columns, and For each column: Each of the corresponding M delay elements is coupled to a corresponding one of the antenna groups in each of the ICs in the column; as well as The first signal is to be transmitted by each of the corresponding antenna groups, and each of the corresponding M delay elements is configured to apply the corresponding time delay to the first signal; or A second signal is received from each of the corresponding antenna groups, and each of the corresponding M delay elements is configured to apply a corresponding time delay to a combination of the second signals.

8. A method performed by a two-dimensional (2D) antenna array, comprising a first number (M) of antenna groups, each antenna group comprising a second number (N) of antenna elements and N phase shifters, each antenna element coupled to a corresponding one of the phase shifters, and M delay elements, each antenna element coupled to a corresponding one of the antenna groups, the method comprising: applying a corresponding time delay by each of the delay elements to a first signal to be transmitted by the corresponding antenna group, applying a corresponding phase shift by each phase shifter in the corresponding antenna group to the time-delayed first signal, and feeding the phase-shifted and time-delayed first signal to the corresponding antenna element; or applying a corresponding time delay by each of the delay elements to a second signal received from the corresponding antenna group, and applying a corresponding phase shift by each phase shifter in the corresponding antenna group to a third signal received from the corresponding antenna element, wherein the second signal is a combination of the phase-shifted third signals; and forming a plurality of beams based on the phase shifts and the time delays, The time delay is configured to generate beam spreading in a first dimension of the 2D antenna array so that the multiple beams are formed in different directions.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The phase shifting is configured to produce beam steering of the plurality of beams in a second dimension of the 2D antenna array, and The beam spreading in the first dimension, combined with the beam steering in the second dimension, results in frequency-dependent beam spreading in the plurality of beams.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein The antenna elements of each antenna group are arranged in an equal number of rows along the first dimension of the 2D antenna array and in an equal number of columns along the second dimension of the 2D antenna array.

11. The method according to claim 8, wherein The antenna elements of each antenna group are arranged in a column along the second dimension of the 2D antenna array.

12. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The antenna elements of each antenna group are arranged in a third number (K) of rows along the first dimension of the 2D antenna array and a fourth number (L) of columns along the second dimension of the 2D antenna array, and K*L=N.

13. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The M antenna groups and the corresponding M delay elements are provided in a single integrated circuit (IC), and The 2D antenna array also includes a plurality of such ICs.

14. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The M antenna groups are provided in a single IC, the 2D antenna array comprising a plurality of such ICs arranged in a fifth number (Y) of rows along the first dimension of the 2D antenna array and a sixth number (X) of columns along the second dimension of the 2D antenna array, The 2D antenna array includes a total of M*X delay elements located outside the antenna group IC, The M of the M*X delay elements corresponds to each column in the X columns, For each column, each of the corresponding M delay elements is coupled to a corresponding one of the antenna groups in each of the ICs in the column, and The method further comprises: applying, by each of the M delay elements, the corresponding time delay to the first signal to be transmitted by each of the corresponding antenna groups in each of the ICs; or The corresponding time delay is applied by each of the M delay elements to a combination of second signals received from each of the corresponding antenna groups in each of the ICs.

15. A non-transitory computer-readable medium configured to store instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause a two-dimensional (2D) antenna array comprising a first number (M) of antenna groups, each antenna group comprising a second number (N) of antenna elements and N phase shifters, each antenna element coupled to a corresponding one of the phase shifters, and each of M delay elements coupled to a corresponding one of the antenna groups, to: applying a corresponding time delay to a first signal to be transmitted by the corresponding antenna group via each of the delay elements, applying a corresponding phase shift to the time-delayed first signal via each phase shifter in the corresponding antenna group, and feeding the phase-shifted and time-delayed first signal to the corresponding antenna element; or applying the corresponding time delay to a second signal received from the corresponding antenna group via each of the delay elements, and applying the corresponding phase shift to a third signal received from the corresponding antenna element via each phase shifter in the corresponding antenna group, wherein the second signal is a combination of the phase-shifted third signals; and forming a plurality of beams based on the phase shifts and the time delays, The time delay is configured to generate beam spreading in a first dimension of the 2D antenna array so that the multiple beams are formed in different directions.

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