A method for measuring antenna reflection coefficient and its user equipment

Abstract

This invention provides a method for measuring the reflection coefficient of an antenna and its user equipment. The method includes the following steps: measuring at least two received signals. Each received signal is measured under a different tuner measurement control word. Multiple tuner scattering parameters and a front-end reflection coefficient at the receiver (Rx) frequency are obtained. These tuner scattering parameters correspond to different tuner measurement control words. The antenna reflection coefficient is calibrated based on the at least two received signals, the tuner scattering parameters, and the front-end reflection coefficient. This innovative method enables closed-loop antenna tuning for all antennas in a mobile device, regardless of their connection to the transmitter (Tx). By utilizing received signals for measurement, this method overcomes the limitations of conventional methods and improves the tuning accuracy and efficiency of mobile antennas.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of antenna parameter measurement technology, and in particular to a method for measuring the reflection coefficient of an antenna and its user equipment. Background Technology

[0002] In communication systems, accurate measurement of the antenna reflection coefficient (Γ_Ant) is crucial for ensuring efficient signal transmission and reception. The antenna reflection coefficient represents the proportion of the transmitted signal reflected back due to impedance mismatch between the antenna and the transmission line. A high reflection coefficient leads to signal loss, reduced efficiency, and potential component damage. Therefore, by accurately measuring the antenna reflection coefficient, antenna performance can be improved, power loss reduced, and overall system reliability and data throughput enhanced.

[0003] Traditionally, measuring antenna reflection coefficients requires connecting the antenna to the transmitter (Tx). However, most antennas in mobile devices are only connected to the receiver (Rx), not the transmitter, thus limiting their tuning capabilities. This architecture makes real-time monitoring and adjustment of antenna performance difficult, especially under varying environmental conditions or usage scenarios. Therefore, traditional methods cannot dynamically adjust antenna behavior, which is crucial for maintaining optimal communication quality in modern mobile devices. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the present invention provides a method for measuring antenna reflection coefficient and a user equipment thereof, which can more accurately acquire and calibrate antenna reflection coefficient without a transmitter, thereby maintaining the communication quality of mobile devices.

[0005] This invention relates to a method for measuring the antenna reflection coefficient and a user equipment using the method. The antenna reflection coefficient is measured using a received signal. This innovative method enables closed-loop antenna tuning (CLAT) for all antennas in a mobile device, regardless of their connection to the transmitter (Tx). By utilizing the received signal for measurement, this method overcomes the limitations of conventional methods, improving the tuning accuracy and efficiency of mobile antennas. Furthermore, this measurement method is unaffected by component differences and temperature variations. Moreover, this method allows for real-time direct measurement of the antenna reflection coefficient at the receiver (Rx) frequency.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a method for measuring the reflection coefficient of an antenna is provided. The method includes the steps of: measuring at least two received signals; measuring the at least two received signals under different tuner measurement control words; obtaining multiple tuner scattering parameters and a front-end reflection coefficient at the receiver (Rx) frequency. The multiple tuner scattering parameters correspond to different tuner measurement control words. The antenna reflection coefficient is calibrated based on the at least two received signals, the tuner scattering parameters, and the front-end reflection coefficient.

[0007] Furthermore, the at least two received signals are measured in offline, real-time, or mixed modes to facilitate parameter measurement.

[0008] Furthermore, the switching between the different tuner measurement control words is controlled by multiple single-instruction control signals or by multiple-instruction control signals, making parameter measurement more convenient. Furthermore, each of these single-instruction control signals and multiple-instruction signals is a mobile industrial processor interface signal, facilitating parameter measurement.

[0009] Furthermore, when measuring the at least two received signals, the RF signal receiving path used to receive the at least two received signals is fixed. This facilitates parameter measurement.

[0010] Furthermore, the tuner scattering parameters were measured using offline simulation or equipment, including a vector network analyzer (VNA), to facilitate parameter measurement.

[0011] Furthermore, the front-end reflection coefficient was measured using offline simulation or equipment, including a vector network analyzer (VNA), to facilitate parameter measurement. Furthermore, the antenna is connected to at least one receiver to more accurately acquire and calibrate the antenna reflection coefficient in the absence of a receiver.

[0012] Furthermore, in the step of calibrating the antenna reflection coefficient, the antenna reflection coefficient is calibrated using the following formula: ; The antenna reflection coefficient; ; ; ; ; ; RS1 and RS2 are at least two received signals, which are measured under different tuner measurement control words; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; , , , , , , , and These are the tuner scattering parameters corresponding to different tuner measurement control words; and It is the reflection coefficient of the first tuner port under different tuner measurement control words, representing the proportion of the wave entering the first tuner port that is reflected back to the first tuner port under different tuner measurement control words; and It is the transmission coefficient from the first tuner port to the second tuner port under different tuner measurement control words, representing the proportion of the wave entering the first tuner port that is transmitted to the second tuner port under different tuner measurement control words; and It is the transmission coefficient from the second tuner port to the first tuner port under different tuner measurement control words, representing the proportion of the wave entering the second tuner port that is transmitted to the first tuner port under different tuner measurement control words; and It is the reflection coefficient of the second tuner port under different tuner measurement control words, representing the proportion of the wave entering the second tuner port that is reflected back to the second tuner port under different tuner measurement control words; and It is the input impedance of the first tuner port when the second tuner port is open; and It is the transmission impedance from the second tuner port to the first tuner port when the first tuner port is open; and It is the transmission impedance from the first tuner port to the second tuner port when the second tuner port is open. and It is the input impedance of the second tuner port when the first tuner port is open. It is 50. It is the impedance of the RF front-end circuit, by Outbound It is the front-end reflection coefficient.

[0013] According to another embodiment, a user equipment is provided. The user equipment includes an antenna, a tuner, an RF front-end circuit, and a receiver (Rx) modem. The antenna has an antenna reflection coefficient. The tuner is connected to the antenna. The tuner is used to switch different tuner measurement control words. The RF front-end circuit is connected to the tuner. The receiver modem is connected to the RF front-end circuit. The receiver modem is used to measure at least two received signals. Each received signal is measured under a different tuner measurement control word. The receiver modem is used to calibrate the antenna reflection coefficient based on at least two received signals, multiple tuner scattering parameters, and the front-end reflection coefficient. The receiver modem in the user equipment can perform any of the methods described above.

[0014] The innovative method and user equipment of this invention enable closed-loop antenna tuning for all antennas in a mobile device, regardless of their connection to the transmitter (Tx). By utilizing the received signal for measurement, this method overcomes the limitations of conventional methods, improving the tuning accuracy and efficiency of mobile antennas. Furthermore, this measurement method is unaffected by component differences and temperature variations. Moreover, this method allows for real-time direct measurement of the antenna reflection coefficient at the receiver (Rx) frequency. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a user equipment according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 2 illustrates multiple tuner scattering parameters according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 3 illustrates a method for measuring tuner scattering parameters according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 4 shows the front-end reflection coefficient according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 5 shows the tuner reflection coefficient according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 6 illustrates a method for measuring the front-end reflection coefficient according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 7 shows the tuner impedance matrix in a tuner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 8 illustrates a method for selecting multiple tuner measurement control words according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 9 shows a flowchart of a method for measuring the reflection coefficient of an antenna according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 10 shows a flowchart of a method for measuring the reflection coefficient of an antenna according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 11 illustrates the hardware features for performing automatic tuner measurement control word switching according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 12 illustrates clock calibration for automatic tuner measurement control word switching according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 13 illustrates receiver closed-loop antenna tuning (Rx CLAT) according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The following description is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. The scope of the invention is best determined by reference to the appended claims. In embodiments of the invention, when a component or layer is referred to as being "located in," "connected to," or "coupled to" another component or layer, it may be directly located in, connected to, or coupled to that other component or layer, or there may be intermediate components or layers. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly located in," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another component or layer, there are no intermediate components or layers. The same numbers always refer to the same component. Certain terms are used in the following description and claims, which refer to specific components. Those skilled in the art will understand that electronic device manufacturers may use different names to refer to a particular component. This document is not intended to distinguish between components with different names but the same function. In the following description and claims, the terms "comprising" and "including" are used in an open-ended manner and should therefore be understood as "including but not limited to...".

[0029] Please see Figure 1The figure illustrates a schematic diagram of a user equipment (or user device) 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The user equipment 100 may be, for example, a mobile phone, a laptop computer, a modem (modulator-demodulator) chip, or a communication chip embedded in a mobile device, robot, and / or vehicle.

[0030] User equipment 100 includes, for example, an antenna 110, a tuner 120, an RF front-end circuit 130, and a receiving (Rx) modem 140. In user equipment 100, antenna 110 serves as an interface between electromagnetic waves in the air and electrical signals in the circuitry. Antenna 110 can be, for example, but not limited to, a dipole antenna, a monopole antenna, a patch antenna, a helical antenna, a Yagi antenna, and / or a phased array antenna. A dipole antenna consists of two metal rods. A monopole antenna has a single conductor and is typically mounted on a ground plane. A patch antenna is flat and used in mobile devices and / or IoT devices. A helical antenna is coil-shaped and suitable for circular polarization. A Yagi antenna is directional and used for television and point-to-point links. A phased array antenna has beam control capabilities and is used in radar and 5G systems.

[0031] Tuner 120 may be coupled to antenna 110. Tuner 120 may be the first stage after antenna 110. Tuner 120 is used to select a specific frequency or channel from the received broadband radio frequency signal. It adjusts the receiving circuitry to match the desired signal frequency, typically including filtering and amplification functions. Tuner 120 may be an analog tuner, digital tuner, broadband tuner, and / or closed-loop tuner, but is not limited to these. Analog tuners use variable capacitors or inductors for manual tuning. Digital tuners are electronically controlled and use a phase-locked loop (PLL) for precise tuning. Broadband tuners can cover a large frequency range without switching components. Closed-loop tuners can be adjusted in real time based on feedback from a signal quality indicator.

[0032] The RF front-end circuit 130 can be connected to the tuner 120. The tuner 120 can be connected between the antenna 110 and the RF front-end circuit 130. The RF front-end circuit 130 processes the raw RF signal by filtering, amplifying, and converting the raw RF signal to intermediate frequency (IF) or baseband for demodulation. The RF front-end circuit 130 may include a low-noise amplifier (LNA), a bandpass filter, a mixer, and / or a switch / duplexer. The LNA is used to amplify weak signals and minimize noise. The bandpass filter is used to select the desired frequency band and suppress out-of-band noise. The mixer is used to convert the RF signal to a lower frequency (LF) by mixing it with the local oscillator signal. The switch / duplexer is used to separate the transmit (Tx) and receive (Rx) paths, especially in full-duplex systems.

[0033] The RF front-end circuit 130 can be, for example, but not limited to, a discrete RF front-end, an integrated front-end module (FEM), and / or a software-defined RF front-end. A discrete RF front-end consists of independent components and can be customized. An integrated front-end module is a compact module widely used in devices such as smartphones and Wi-Fi. A software-defined RF front-end supports dynamic reconfiguration for different frequency bands and standards.

[0034] The receiver modem 140 is used to demodulate the input signal, extracting digital data from the analog waveform. It is also responsible for error correction, synchronization, and decoding. The receiver modem 140 can be an ASK / FSK / PSK demodulator, a QAM demodulator, an OFDM demodulator, and / or a software-defined modem, but is not limited to these. ASK / FSK / PSK demodulators are used in simple digital systems such as RFID or low-power IoT. QAM demodulators are common in high-speed data systems such as LTE and Wi-Fi. OFDM demodulators are used in modern broadband systems (4G / 5G, Wi-Fi). Software-defined modems are implemented using DSPs or FPGAs and support multiple modulation types.

[0035] As shown in Figure 1, there is an antenna reflection coefficient. Front reflection coefficient and tuner reflection coefficient In the following text, these can also be written as antenna reflection coefficient Γ_Ant, front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE, and tuner reflection coefficient Γ_in.

[0036] The antenna reflection coefficient Γ_Ant measures the amount of incident signal reflected due to impedance mismatch between the antenna and the connecting circuitry (typically the RF front-end). It is a key indicator of the antenna's power transmission efficiency to the system. A lower reflection coefficient Γ_Ant indicates good impedance matching (minimal signal loss). A higher reflection coefficient Γ_Ant indicates poor matching (more signal is reflected).

[0037] The front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE represents the amount of signal reflected at the input of the RF front-end circuit 130 due to impedance mismatch with antenna 110 or tuner 120. Even if antenna 110 is well designed, impedance mismatch in the RF front-end circuit 130 will still degrade system performance.

[0038] The tuner reflection coefficient Γ_in refers to the reflection coefficient at the second tuner port P2. The tuner reflection coefficient Γ_in represents the compensation effect of tuner 120 in the case of mismatch.

[0039] The receiving modem 140 includes a software (SW) control module 141. The SW control module 141 is a hardware implementation controlled by software and can be implemented in various ways, including but not limited to Mobile Industry Processor Interface Radio Frequency Front-End (MIPIRFFE).

[0040] The tuner 120 includes a state machine module 121. The state machine module 121 is a hardware implementation of the state machine, which can be implemented in various ways, including but not limited to microcontrollers, complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs) and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs).

[0041] This invention provides a method for measuring the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_Ant using received signals. Furthermore, this innovative method enables all antennas in a mobile device to achieve CLAT (Content-Based Adaptive Test), regardless of their connection to the transmitter or transmitter (Tx).

[0042] Depending on hardware performance and user requirements, the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_Ant can be measured using the received signal measured by the receiver or receiver (Rx) in offline, real-time, or hybrid modes (e.g., a combination of offline and real-time).

[0043] For example, the data required to measure the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_Ant includes at least two received signals RS1 and RS2, as well as multiple tuner scattering parameters. , , , , , , and (As shown in Figure 2), these parameters correspond to multiple tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2 (as shown in Figure 8). At least two received signals RS1 and RS2 can be transmitted from antenna 110 via tuner 120 and RF front-end circuitry 130 to receiver modem 140. Receiver modem 140 measures at least two received signals RS1 and RS2 under different tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2. Tuner scattering parameters corresponding to tuner measurement control word CW1. , , , And the tuner scattering parameters corresponding to the tuner measurement control word CW2. , , , Estimation can be performed through offline simulation or by measurement using devices such as a vector network analyzer (VNA) 920. Figure 3 (As shown). In some embodiments, the tuner 120 may be used to measure scattering parameters before being connected to the antenna 110 and the RF front-end circuitry 130. In some embodiments, after the tuner 120 is connected to the antenna 110 and the RF front-end circuitry 130, at least two received signals RS1 and RS2 are measured using different tuner measurement control words CWx. In some embodiments, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 2 and Figure 8 Tuner 120 can be configured to perform measurements in different states (e.g., using tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2) to obtain corresponding tuner scattering parameters. For example, tuner 120 can perform measurements to obtain scattering parameters before being connected to antenna 110 and RF front-end circuitry 130. In some embodiments, tuner 120 is first set to a first state using tuner measurement control word CW1 to measure and obtain scattering parameters. , , ,and Then, the tuner 120 is set to the second state via the tuner measurement control word CW2 to measure and obtain the scattering parameters. , , ,and After completing the above steps, tuner 120 is connected to antenna 110 and RF front-end circuit 130. Then, tuner 120 is set to a first state via tuner measurement control word CW1, and antenna 110 transmits a signal. Received signal RS1 is generated by tuner 120 in the first state and measured by receiver modem 140 to obtain the corresponding parameters. Next, tuner 120 is set to a second state via tuner measurement control word CW2, and antenna 110 transmits a signal again. Received signal RS2 is generated by tuner 120 in the second state and measured by receiver modem 140 to obtain the corresponding parameters.

[0044] To prevent changes to the internal channels, the RF signal receiving path PH1 in the RF front-end circuit 130 and the receiver modem 140 should remain fixed when receiving all tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2.

[0045] To prevent changes in the external channel, in real-time scenarios, the measurement time of the received signals RS1 and RS2 measured by the receiver (Rx) for the tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2 should be controlled within 1 microsecond.

[0046] Please refer to Figure 2, which shows the tuner scattering parameters according to an embodiment of the present invention. , , , , , , , Tuner scattering parameters , , , The superscript "x" indicates the tuner measurement control word CWx. For example, tuner scattering parameters. , , , These are the reflection coefficient and transmission coefficient of tuner 120 when the first tuner port P1 and the second tuner port P2 are connected to 50Ω (Z_0) and tuner 120 is set to tuner measurement control word CW1; tuner scattering parameters. , , , These are the first tuner port P1 and the second tuner port P2 connected to a 50Ω resistor. The resistance, and the tuner 120 is configured to measure the reflection coefficient and transmission coefficient of the tuner 120 when the tuner measurement control word CW2 is used. In some embodiments, The value is 50Ω, used for illustrative purposes only. It can be any resistance value, not limited to 50Ω. It can be other predetermined values.

[0047] Tuner scattering parameters ( or ) is the reflection coefficient at the first tuner port P1, representing the proportion of the wave entering the first tuner port P1 that is reflected back to the first tuner port P1.

[0048] Tuner scattering parameters ( or ) is the transmission coefficient from the first tuner port P1 to the second tuner port P2, representing the proportion of the wave entering from the first tuner port P1 that is transmitted to the second tuner port P2.

[0049] Tuner scattering parameters ( or ) is the transmission coefficient from the second tuner port P2 to the first tuner port P1, representing the proportion of the wave entering from the second tuner port P2 that is transmitted to the tuner port P1.

[0050] Tuner scattering parameters ( or ) is the reflection coefficient of the second tuner port P2, which represents the proportion of the wave entering from the second tuner port P2 that is reflected back to the second tuner port P2.

[0051] Please refer to Figure 3, which shows the tuner scattering parameters according to an embodiment of the present invention. , , , , , , , The measurement results. Tuner scattering parameters. , , , , , , ,and Estimation can be performed through offline simulation or by using devices such as, but not limited to, the Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) 920.

[0052] The following are the tuner scattering parameters , , , , , , , Measurement examples include disconnecting the tuner 120 from the RF front-end circuitry 130 and the antenna 110, soldering cables CB1 and CB2 of the VNA 920 to the first port P1 and the second port P2 of the tuner, respectively; and measuring the scattering parameters of the tuner. , , , , , , , .

[0053] To measure the scattering parameters of the tuner , The known signal is sent to tuner 120 via cable CB1, and the reflected signal is measured via cable CB1.

[0054] To measure tuner scattering parameters , The known signal is sent to tuner 120 via cable CB1, and the reflected signal is measured by cable CB2.

[0055] To measure tuner scattering parameters , The known signal is sent to tuner 120 via cable CB2, and the reflected signal is measured by cable CB1.

[0056] To measure tuner scattering parameters , The known signal is sent to tuner 120 via cable CB2, and the reflected signal is measured by cable CB2.

[0057] Based on the above, tuner scattering parameters , , , , , , , It can be measured offline.

[0058] Please refer to Figure 4, which illustrates the front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE according to an embodiment of the present invention. The front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE is the reflection coefficient at the input port P3 of the RF front-end circuit 130, representing the proportion of waves entering the input port P3 that are reflected back to the input port P3.

[0059] Please refer to Figure 5, which illustrates the tuner reflection coefficient Γ_in according to an embodiment of the present invention. The tuner reflection coefficient Γ_in is the reflection coefficient at the second tuner port P2, representing the proportion of the wave entering the second tuner port P2 that is reflected back to the second tuner port P2. It can be determined by the front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE and the tuner scattering parameters. , , , Output. For example, tuner reflection coefficient. ( , ) can be obtained through the following formula (1).

[0060] (1); Please refer to Figure 6, which illustrates a method for measuring the front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE according to an embodiment of the present invention. The front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE can also be estimated through offline simulation or measured using a device such as, but not limited to, a vector network analyzer (VNA) 930. An example of measuring the front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE includes: disconnecting the RF front-end circuit 130 from the tuner 120; soldering the cable CB3 of the VNA 930 to the input port P3; and measuring the front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE at the receiving frequency.

[0061] Based on the above method, the front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE can be measured offline.

[0062] Please refer to Figure 7, which shows the tuner impedance matrix in a tuner 120 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The impedance of the RF front-end circuit 130 can be derived from the front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE using the following formula (2).

[0063] (2); It is 50Ω.

[0064] As shown in Figure 7, the impedance matrix includes the input impedance. ( or ), transmission impedance ( or ), transmission impedance ( or and input impedance ( or Input impedance , and transmission impedance , The superscript "x" indicates the tuner measurement control word CWx.

[0065] Input impedance , and transmission impedance , can be , , , Outbound.

[0066] Input impedance This is the input impedance of the first tuner port P1 when the second tuner port P2 is open-circuited. Input impedance It can be calculated using the following formula (3).

[0067] (3); Transmission impedance This is the transmission impedance from the second tuner port P2 to the first tuner port P1 when the first tuner port P1 is open-circuited. Transmission impedance It can be calculated using the following formula (4).

[0068] (4); Transmission impedance This is the transmission impedance from the first tuner port P1 to the second tuner port P2 when the second tuner port P2 is open. Transmission impedance It can be calculated using the following formula (5).

[0069] (5); Input impedance This refers to the input impedance of the second tuner port P2 when it is open. The first tuner port P1 is open. Input impedance. It can be calculated using the following formula (6).

[0070] (6); The antenna reflection coefficient Γ_ant can be calibrated using the following formula (7). In formula (7), the root of |Γ_ant| < 1 is selected.

[0071] (7); According to the following equations (8) to (24), the coefficients , , , It is the ratio of received signal to actual signal strength. Tuner scattering parameters , , , , , , , And a function of the front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE. Received signals RS1 and RS2 are measured by the Rx modem 140.

[0072] (8); (9); (10); (11); (12); (13); (14); (15); (16); (17); (18); (19); (20); (twenty one); (twenty two); (twenty three); (twenty four); Please refer to Figure 8, which illustrates a method for selecting tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The selection of tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2 is highly dependent on the design of the tuner RF hardware. To prevent degradation of received signal quality, it is recommended (but not limited to) selecting tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2 with insertion loss of less than 1 dB.

[0073] For example, tuner 120 may consist of switch S1 and three variable capacitors D1, D2, and D3. When switch S1 is on and variable capacitors D1, D2, and D3 are off or deactivated (or remain low), tuner 120 is controlled by tuner measurement control word CW1. When switch S1 is off, variable capacitor D1 is on or activated (or remains high) and variable capacitors D2 and D3 are off or deactivated (or remain low), tuner 120 is controlled by tuner measurement control word CW2.

[0074] Please refer to Figure 9, which illustrates a flowchart of a method for measuring the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_ant of antenna 110 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The method for measuring the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_ant in Figure 9 includes steps S110 to S130. Step S110 includes steps S111 to S116.

[0075] In step S110, as shown in FIG1, the receiving modem 140 measures at least two received signals RS1 and RS2. The at least two received signals RS1 and RS2 are measured under different tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2, respectively. In the embodiment shown in FIG9, multiple single-instruction control signals S11 and S12 (e.g., Mobile Industry Processor Interface (MIPI) signals) are sent to trigger different tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2. Specifically, single-instruction control signal S11 triggers a switch to tuner measurement control word CW1; single-instruction control signal S12 triggers a switch to tuner measurement control word CW2.

[0076] The resolution of single instruction control signals S11 and S12 should be less than 0.5 microseconds (0.5 subframes). Achieving this resolution requires significant software resources, such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

[0077] Step S110 includes steps S111 to S116. As shown in FIG1, in step S111, the software control module 141 of the receiving modem 140 sends a single command control signal S11 (or S12) to the tuner 120.

[0078] Next, as shown in Figure 1, in step S112, the state machine module 121 of the tuner 120 writes the tuner measurement control word CW1 (or CW2) into the register.

[0079] Then, as shown in Figure 1, in step S113, tuner 120 switches to the standby state and waits for steps S114 and S115 to complete. In step S113, it switches to the tuner measurement control word to be set.

[0080] Meanwhile, in step S114, as shown in FIG1, the receiving modem 140 skips the measurement of the tuner settling time (e.g., A microseconds, any positive microsecond number). That is, the measurement of the tuner settling time is skipped.

[0081] Then, in step S115, as shown in FIG1, the receiving modem 140 measures the received signal RS1 (or RS2) for a period of time (e.g., B microseconds, any positive microsecond number). That is, the received signal is measured within the measurement period.

[0082] Then, in step S116, as shown in FIG1, the receiving modem 140 determines whether the measurement of the received signals RS1 and RS2 corresponding to all tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2 has been completed. That is, whether the measurement of the received signals of all tuner measurement control words has been completed. If the measurement of the received signals RS1 and RS2 corresponding to all tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2 has been completed, the process proceeds to step S130. If the measurement of the received signals RS1 and RS2 under all tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2 has not been completed, the process proceeds to step S111.

[0083] Before proceeding to step S130, step S120 is executed. In step S120, the receiving modem 140 acquires the tuner scattering parameters. , , , , , , , And the front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE. That is, obtain the tuner scattering parameters and the front-end reflection coefficient.

[0084] Next, in step S130, the receiving modem 140 determines the parameters based on at least two received signals RS1 and RS2, and the tuner scattering parameters. , , , , , , And the front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE is used to calibrate the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_ant. In this step, the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_ant is calibrated using the following formula: (i.e., the above formula (1)).

[0085] Please refer to Figure 10, which illustrates a flowchart of a method for measuring the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_ant of antenna 110 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The method for measuring the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_ant shown in Figure 10 includes steps S110', S120, and S130. Step S110' includes steps S111' and S112 through S116. In the embodiment of Figure 10, a multiple instruction control signal S2 (e.g., a Mobile Industrial Processor Interface (MIPI) signal) is sent to trigger an automatic tuner measurement control word switching. The tuner settings are switched multiple times via the multiple instruction control signal S2 to achieve an acceptable low software control resolution.

[0086] Please refer to Figures 10 and 11. Figure 11 illustrates the hardware features for performing automatic tuner measurement control word switching according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 11, the state machine module 121 of the tuner 120 may include a register 1211, a delay timer 1212, a counter 1213, a state machine 1214, a multiplexer 1215, and a register 1216.

[0087] In step S110', as shown in FIG11, the receiving modem 140 measures at least two received signals RS1 and RS2. These two received signals RS1 and RS2 are measured under different tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2, respectively.

[0088] Step S110' includes steps S111' and S112 to S116. As shown in FIG11, in step S111', the software control module 141 of the receiving modem 140 sends a multi-command control signal S2 to the tuner 120.

[0089] Next, as shown in Figure 11, in step S112, the state machine module 121 of the tuner 120 writes the tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2 into register 1211.

[0090] Then, as shown in Figure 11, in step S113, tuner 120 switches to the tuner measurement control word CW1 (or CW2) to be set, and waits for steps S114 and S115 to complete.

[0091] Meanwhile, as shown in Figure 11, in step S114, the receiving modem 140 skips the measurement of the tuner settling time (e.g., A microseconds).

[0092] Subsequently, as shown in Figure 11, in step S115, the receiving modem 140 measures the received signal RS1 (or RS2) within a measurement period (e.g., B microseconds).

[0093] Then, as shown in Figure 11, in step S116, the receiving modem 140 determines whether the measurement of the received signals RS1 and RS2 corresponding to all tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2 has been completed. If the measurement of the received signals RS1 and RS2 corresponding to all tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2 has been completed, the process continues to execute step S130; if the measurement of the received signals RS1 and RS2 corresponding to all tuner measurement control words CW1 and CW2 has not been completed, the process continues to execute steps S113 and S114.

[0094] Before executing step S130, step S120 is executed first. In step S120, the receiving modem 140 acquires the tuner scattering parameters. , , , , , , , And the front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE.

[0095] Next, in step S130, the receiving modem 140 determines the parameters based on at least two received signals RS1 and RS2, and the tuner scattering parameters. , , , , , , , And the front-end reflection coefficient Γ_FE is used to calibrate the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_ant. In this step, the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_ant is determined by... Calibrate using the formula (1) as described above.

[0096] Based on the above, performing automatic tuner measurement control word switching offers several advantages. For example, it allows for low-control-overhead calibration in a programmable manner. This is achieved by pre-programming the calibration sequence and triggering the calibration function. High-demand software calculations can be pre-executed and set as parameters during periods of low control flow. Calibration can be initiated simply by triggering a low flow rate.

[0097] Please refer to Figure 12, which illustrates clock calibration for the measurement control word switching of an automatic tuner according to an embodiment of the present invention. To perform clock calibration, an internal digital controller 1217, a positive charge pump 1218, and a negative charge pump 1219 can be used. The internal digital controller 1217 includes a controller 12171 and a frequency calibration counter 12172. Clock calibration improves timing control accuracy, which is particularly important for self-timing systems with large process variations. Figure 12 provides an example implementation of clock calibration using an internal clock source. For example, the tuner 120 inherently integrates an oscillator in its design. The presence of the oscillator is essential for the operation of the charge pumps (positive charge pump 1218 or negative charge pump 1219). Therefore, no additional circuitry is required. This approach effectively reuses much of the existing architecture.

[0098] Furthermore, the extended write functionality supported by MIPI RFFE provides a continuous serial clock when continuously writing to virtual registers.

[0099] According to the above embodiment, the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_Ant is measured using received signals RS1 and RS2. This innovative method enables closed-loop antenna tuning (CLAT) for all antennas in a mobile device (regardless of their connection to the transmitter). By utilizing the received signals for measurement, this method overcomes the limitations of traditional methods, improving the tuning accuracy and efficiency of mobile antennas. Furthermore, this measurement method is unaffected by component differences and temperature variations. Moreover, the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_ant can be measured directly at the receiving frequency in real-time scenarios.

[0100] Please refer to Figure 13, which illustrates receiver closed-loop antenna tuning (RxCLAT) according to an embodiment of the present invention. RxCLAT is a new technique that automatically controls the source impedance by switching the receiver's tuner measurement control word, thereby maximizing received power. RxCLAT requires estimating the gain enhancement provided by the antenna tuner under each tuner measurement control word CWx by measuring the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_Ant in real time.

[0101] One method (but not limited to) for estimating the antenna tuner gain enhancement for each tuner measurement control word CWx is to calculate the relative transducer gain (RTG) according to the following formula (25).

[0102] (25); It is the transducer gain with tuner, calculated by the following formula (26).

[0103] (26); It is the transducer gain without a tuner, therefore , . Calculate using the following formula (27).

[0104] (27); As shown in Figure 13, the steps for performing Rx CLAT include, for example, S210 to S240.

[0105] In step S210, the receiving modem 140 calculates the RTG value of all tuner measurement control words CWx based on the antenna reflection coefficient Γ_Ant. That is, the RTG value of all tuner measurement control words is calculated based on the antenna reflection coefficient.

[0106] Next, in step S220, the software control module 141 identifies the tuner measurement control word CWx with the largest RTG value and sends a software control signal to the tuner 120. That is, it identifies the tuner measurement control word with the largest RTG value and sends a software control signal to the tuner.

[0107] Then, in step S230, the state machine module 121 of the tuner 120 writes the tuner measurement control word CWx into the register.

[0108] Then, in step S240, tuner 120 switches to the tuner measurement control word CWx with the largest RTG value. That is, the tuner is switched to the tuner measurement control word and the maximum RTG is set.

[0109] This process allows you to maximize received power by switching the tuner measurement control word CWx.

[0110] The innovative method in this invention enables closed-loop antenna tuning (CLAT) for all antennas in a mobile device, regardless of their connection to the transmitter (Tx). By utilizing the received signal for measurement, this method overcomes the limitations of traditional methods, improving the tuning accuracy and efficiency of mobile antennas. Furthermore, this measurement method is unaffected by component differences and temperature variations. Moreover, this method allows for real-time direct measurement of the antenna reflection coefficient at the receiver (Rx) frequency.

[0111] In this embodiment of the invention, the receiver may include a storage medium containing computer code executable by a computer to implement the steps of the method described above, for example... Figure 9 and Figure 10 The methods and steps.

[0112] While the invention has been described by way of example and according to preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Rather, it is intended to cover various modifications and similar arrangements (as will be apparent to those skilled in the art). Therefore, the scope of the appended claims should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such modifications and similar arrangements.

Claims

1. A method of measuring an antenna reflection coefficient, characterized by, comprising: measuring at least two receive signals, wherein the at least two receive signals are measured under different tuner measurement control words respectively; obtaining a plurality of tuner scattering parameters and a front-end reflection coefficient under a receiver (Rx) frequency, wherein the plurality of tuner scattering parameters correspond to the different tuner measurement control words; and calibrating the antenna reflection coefficient according to the at least two receive signals, the tuner scattering parameters and the front-end reflection coefficient.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The at least two receive signals are measured in offline, real-time or hybrid mode.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, Switching between the different tuner measurement control words is controlled by a plurality of single-instruction control signals or by a multiple-instruction control signal.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, Each of the single-instruction control signals and the multiple-instruction signal is a mobile industry processor interface signal.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein, An RF signal reception path used for receiving the at least two receive signals is fixed when the at least two receive signals are measured.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein, The tuner scattering parameters are measured by using offline simulation or equipment, and the equipment comprises a vector network analyzer (VNA).

7. The method of claim 1, wherein, The front-end reflection coefficient is measured by using offline simulation or equipment, and the equipment comprises a vector network analyzer (VNA).

8. The method of claim 1, wherein, The antenna is connected to at least one receiver.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein, In the step of calibrating the antenna reflection coefficient, the antenna reflection coefficient is calibrated by the following equation: ; S is the antenna reflection coefficient; ; ; ; ; ; RS1 and RS2 are at least two receive signals, receive signals are measured under different tuner measurement control words; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; , , , , , , , and are tuner scatter parameters corresponding to different tuner measurement control words; and is a reflection coefficient of the first tuner port under the different tuner measurement control word, representing a proportion of waves entering the first tuner port under the different tuner measurement control word that are reflected back into the first tuner port; and Tij are the transmission coefficients from the first tuner port to the second tuner port under different tuner measurement control words, representing the proportion of the waves entering the first tuner port that are transmitted to the second tuner port under different tuner measurement control words; and S2i are the transmission coefficients from the second tuner port to the first tuner port under different tuner measurement control words, representing the proportion of waves entering the second tuner port that are transmitted to the first tuner port under different tuner measurement control words; and S2is the reflection coefficient of the second tuner port under the different tuner measurement control word, representing the proportion of the wave entering the second tuner port under the different tuner measurement control word being reflected back to the second tuner port; and is the input impedance of the first tuner port when the second tuner port is open circuited; and is the transmission impedance from the second tuner port to the first tuner port when the first tuner port is open circuited; and Ztransmission is the transmission impedance from the first tuner port to the second tuner port when the second tuner port is open circuited; and Zin2is the input impedance of the second tuner port when the first tuner port is open circuited; is 50, is the impedance of the radio frequency front-end circuit, by is delivered, is the front-end reflection coefficient.

10. A user equipment, comprising: comprising: an antenna having an antenna reflection coefficient; a tuner connected to the antenna, wherein the tuner is used to switch different tuner measurement control words; a radio frequency front-end circuit connected to the tuner; and a receiver (Rx) modem connected to the radio frequency front-end circuit, wherein the Rx modem is used to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1~9.

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