EQUIPMENT LOAD FOR A WIRELESS TRANSMISSION ARRANGEMENT

Abstract

A power amplifier arrangement for one or more antennas having a calibratable dummy load. The power amplifier arrangement includes a calibration arrangement that controls or defines an amount of power drawn by the dummy load in response to a power-responsive parameter that changes in response to an amount of power drawn by one or more power amplifiers of the power amplifier arrangement when amplifying an input signal to be transmitted by the antenna(s).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of wireless transmission arrangements and, more particularly, to wireless transmission arrangements having a dummy load arrangement. BACKGROUND

[0002] Wireless transmission arrangements, such as those designed for radar applications, often include a power amplifier arrangement for amplifying signals for transmission through one or more antennas. Typically, the power amplifier arrangement is supplied with power input from a power control arrangement.

[0003] It is recognized that control schemes for the wireless transmission arrangement may require sudden changes in whether or not to generate amplified signals for transmission by the antenna(s). For example, there may be a desire to radiate one or more bursts of electromagnetic radiation, i.e., a sequence of pulses or chirps. Without additional power control, this will cause the power drawn by the power amplifier arrangement to change suddenly, e.g., undergo step changes. Such sudden changes may introduce noise into the power control arrangement, e.g., caused by overshoot, which currently requires a relatively large filter circuit to attenuate.

[0004] A well-known technique for reducing the effect of changes in the demand for amplified signals is to incorporate a dummy load arrangement into the power amplifier arrangement. The dummy load arrangement is controlled to consume power (i.e., current) when the demand for amplification decreases or decreases. This effectively reduces the magnitude of a step change in the power consumed by the power amplifier arrangement between amplification of input signals for transmission.

[0005] There is a continuing desire to improve the performance of a power amplifier arrangement for a wireless transmission arrangement. SUMMARY

[0006] Examples disclosed herein propose a power amplifier arrangement for amplifying signals for transmission through one or more antennas of a wireless transmission arrangement. The power amplifier arrangement comprises an input interface, one or more power amplifiers, a dummy load arrangement, a power control arrangement, and a calibration arrangement.

[0007] The input interface is configured to receive an input signal. Each power amplifier is configured to: when enabled, amplify the input signal and provide the amplified input signal to a respective antenna of the wireless transmission arrangement; and when disabled, prevent the amplified input signal from being provided to the respective antenna of the wireless transmission arrangement. The dummy load arrangement is configured to: when enabled, draw an electrical current from the input interface; and when disabled, draw no or negligible electrical current from the input interface.The power control arrangement is configured to controllably activate and deactivate the one or more power amplifiers and the dummy load arrangement, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to controllably switch between: an antenna output mode in which the power control arrangement activates the one or more power amplifiers and deactivates the dummy load arrangement; and an antenna block mode in which the power control signal activates the dummy load arrangement and deactivates the one or more power amplifiers.The calibration arrangement comprises: a sensing arrangement configured to sense a value of one or more power-responsive parameters that changes in response to a power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when activated; and a current control arrangement configured to control an amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load arrangement when activated in response to the sensed value of the one or more power-responsive parameters.

[0008] Examples of the present disclosure provide a power amplifier assembly for a wireless transmission assembly, such as a radar system. The power amplifier assembly is configured to drive or power one or more antennas for the wireless transmission system or radar system. A power amplifier assembly may be integrated into a microwave management integrated circuit (MMIC), alternatively referred to as a monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC), which may include other circuit components required for signal processing (e.g., oscillators and the like).

[0009] The power amplifier arrangement comprises a set of one or more power amplifiers. Each power amplifier has one or more gain stages (e.g., operational amplifiers) for amplifying an input power to drive a respective antenna. Typically, the frequency of the input power changes or is controlled to control the frequency of the electromagnetic signal output by the antenna. This can be done by one or more oscillators.

[0010] There may be a desire to operate one or more antennas in bursts or chirps, in which the antenna(s) periodically transmit an electromagnetic signal with gaps in between. Thus, there is a power control arrangement that controls whether or not power is provided to the antenna. This is achieved by switching between an antenna output mode (in which the appropriate power amplifier(s) is / are enabled to provide power to its respective antenna) and an antenna block mode, in which the appropriate power amplifier(s) is / are disabled to prevent the provision of power to the respective antenna.

[0011] The power amplifier(s) draw more current from the input power during antenna output mode than during antenna block mode. This can generate significant noise in the power amplifier array (particularly ringing in filters) without appropriate filtering and / or current control.

[0012] The present approach proposes to provide a dummy load arrangement that is activated during antenna block mode. In particular, the present approach proposes to calibrate the dummy load arrangement in response to a power (e.g., current) drawn by the power amplifier(s) during antenna output mode. This significantly reduces a change in the current drawn by the input power when switching between antenna output mode and antenna block mode. This significantly attenuates any noise, reduces interference, and minimizes any risk of any out-of-band emission of electromagnetic radiation by the antenna(s).

[0013] Those skilled in the art will recognize additional features and advantages upon reading the following detailed description and upon viewing the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to similar or identical elements. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily to scale relative to one another. The features of the various examples shown may be combined, provided they are not mutually exclusive. Fig. 1 illustrates a wireless transmission arrangement comprising a power amplifier arrangement. Fig. 2 represents a power amplifier. Fig. 3 represents a power drawn by the power amplifier arrangement. Fig. 4 represents an alternative power amplifier. Fig. Figure 5 illustrates a procedure performed by a proposed calibration arrangement. Fig. 6 illustrates an alternative wireless power amplifier arrangement. Fig. Figure 7 shows a proposed power amplifier arrangement. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] The examples described herein provide a power amplifier arrangement for one or more antennas with a calibratable dummy load. The power amplifier arrangement includes a calibration arrangement that controls or defines an amount of power drawn by the dummy load in response to a power-responsive parameter that changes in response to an amount of power drawn by one or more power amplifiers of the power amplifier arrangement when amplifying an input signal to be transmitted by the antenna(s).

[0016] Fig. 1 illustrates a wireless transmission arrangement 100, in which one or more examples may be used for contextual understanding. The wireless transmission arrangement may be designed to operate as a radar system, such as an FMCW radar system.

[0017] The wireless transmission arrangement 100 comprises a power amplifier arrangement 110 (having one or more power amplifiers 111, 112, ..., 11X); an antenna arrangement 120 (having one or more antennas 121, 122, ..., 12X); and a power control arrangement 140.

[0018] The power amplifier arrangement 110 and the power control arrangement 140 may together form a portion of a power supply arrangement for a wireless transmission arrangement.

[0019] The power amplifier arrangement 110 comprises a power control arrangement 115 that controls the operation of the power amplifier arrangement 110. In particular, the power control arrangement 115 controls the number of one or more power amplifiers 111, 112, ..., 11X that are activated.

[0020] The power control arrangement 115 is operable in an antenna output mode in which it controls the power amplifier arrangement 110 to output one or more input signals S IN1 , S IN2 , ..., S INX using a respective one or more power amplifiers to amplify a respective one or more amplified input signals S A1 , S A2 , ..., S AX In the antenna output mode, each amplified input signal S A1 , S A2 , ..., S AXa respective antenna 121, 122, ..., 12X of the antenna array 120. Each respective antenna, upon receiving an amplified input signal, radiates an electromagnetic signal or electromagnetic wave in response to the amplified input signal. The operation of an antenna is well known in the art and will not be described in detail for the sake of brevity.

[0021] Thus, the properties of each input signal S IN1 , S IN2 , ..., S INX (e.g., frequency, amplitude, and / or temporal patterns) the properties of each emitted electromagnetic signal. Approaches for generating a suitable input signal (e.g., using one or more oscillators) are well known in the art and may depend on the precise use case scenario for the wireless transmission arrangement and are not described in detail for brevity.

[0022] The power control arrangement 115 can control the operation of each power amplifier 111, 112, ..., 11X using a respective set of one or more control signals S C1 , S C2 , ..., S CX Each set of control signals may, for example, control activation and / or deactivation of one or more switches in each power amplifier. The power control arrangement 115 may operate according to any suitable or desired control scheme for controlling when the antenna(s) should radiate an electromagnetic signal.

[0023] The power control arrangement 140 is configured to provide an input power P IN for the power amplifier(s) of the power amplifier arrangement 110. The input power P IN allows the power amplifier arrangement to amplify each input signal S IN1 , S IN2 , ..., S INXThe input power P IN can be fed through a power line. The input power P IN may be the power of a power supply signal of the power amplifier arrangement 110. The input power P IN may be a DC signal, at least during amplification by the power amplifier arrangement, which may be stable or slightly varying (e.g., exhibiting ripple) during the antenna output mode.

[0024] It is understood that the power control arrangement 115 is also operable in an antenna block mode in which it controls the power amplifier arrangement in order not to receive amplified input signals S A1 , S A2 , ..., S AXto the antenna(s) of the antenna arrangement 120. This can be done, for example, by isolating the power amplifiers from any input signal and / or diverting any power consumed by the power amplifiers (e.g., to a dummy load, as exemplified later). As previously mentioned, the control can be performed using the set(s) of one or more control signals S C1 , S C2 , ..., S CX be performed.

[0025] Of course, the antenna output mode and the antenna block mode are only exemplary operating modes for the power control arrangement.

[0026] For example, the antenna output mode may be divided into a plurality of different submodes, each producing a different number and / or combination of one or more amplified input signals. As one example, a submode of an antenna output mode is a full output mode in which all input signals are amplified and provided to a respective antenna. As another example, another submode of the antenna output mode is a first antenna output mode in which only the input signal for a first antenna 121 of the antenna assembly 120 is amplified and provided to the first antenna (without amplifying other input signals). Other variations will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0027] In the context of a wireless transmission arrangement 100 for a radar system, the power amplifier arrangement 110 may form part of a microwave management integrated circuit (MMIC), and the power control arrangement 140 may form part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC). The power amplifier arrangement 110 and the power control arrangement 140 may together form a portion of a radar power supply arrangement (e.g., for the radar system).

[0028] Fig. Figure 2 illustrates a power amplifier 200 for a power amplifier arrangement. The power amplifier is controllable by a power control arrangement (not shown) to provide an input signal S IN1 received at an input interface N2 to generate an amplified input signal S A1Although it does not form part of the power amplifier or power amplifier assembly, the antenna 121, which is driven by the power amplifier 200, is shown for clarity.

[0029] The power amplifier 200 comprises a first row 210 of one or more gain stages (here: two gain stages, but in practice any number) connected between the input interface N2 and an intermediate node N1. The power amplifier also comprises a second row 220 of one or more gain stages (here: a single stage, but in practice any number) connected between the intermediate node N1 and the respective antenna 121 for the power amplifier 200.

[0030] Each amplification stage is controlled by the input power P IN supplied with power or controlled. The input power P INcan be routed through a power line 290.

[0031] Fig. Figure 2 also shows a dummy load arrangement in the form of a diverter S1. The diverter switch is connected between the intermediate node N1 of the respective power amplifier 200 and a ground or return path GND. When the diverter switch S1 is activated, the power amplifier does not output an amplified input signal S A1 to the antenna 121. Instead, the (partially) amplified input signal is redirected to the ground or return path. When the redirection switch S1 is activated, the power amplifier continues to draw power but provides the amplified input signal S A1 not available for antenna 121.

[0032] Fig. Figure 2 also illustrates an optional second bypass switch S2 connected between the input interface N2 and a ground or return path GND. This second bypass switch S2, when activated, prevents the power amplifier (and dummy load arrangement) from consuming power. This facilitates increased control over the operation of the power amplifier. In particular, when integrated into a power amplifier arrangement, this facilitates control over which power amplifiers perform the amplification function.

[0033] The operation of the diversion switch(es) is controlled by the power control arrangement (not shown), e.g., via a set of one or more control signals S C1-1 , S C1-2 .

[0034] Thus, the power control arrangement is capable of controllably activating and deactivating the power amplifier and the dummy load arrangement. This is done by controlling the bypass switch(es).

[0035] In some circumstances, it is desirable to cause the antenna array to transmit one or more electromagnetic signals (e.g., radar signals) in a series or sequence of pulses or chirps. Gaps separate the pulses / chirps in the sequence. Operating the antenna array in this manner can be referred to as a burst mode of operation.

[0036] For example, to perform a radar function, there may be a desire to emit radar signals in series of chirps or "chirp pulses," in which a frequency of the radar signal changes (e.g., increases) from a start frequency to a stop frequency in each chirp. The duration of each chirp can range from a few microseconds to a few milliseconds, e.g., 50 µs to 2,000 µs. However, the actual values ​​may be longer or shorter depending on the application. Accordingly, the pulses or chirps may comprise a frequency ramp, which is used in a frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar to detect a range and / or a speed and / or an angle of arrival of signals reflected from objects.

[0037] One approach to facilitating chirp or pulse functionality is to maintain the power control arrangement in antenna output mode and control the input signal(s) to execute the desired chirps with intervening gaps. However, maintaining the power control arrangement in antenna output mode creates significant interference in the radiated electromagnetic signals (as they continue to radiate energy in the intervening gaps).

[0038] Another approach to facilitating this chirping or pulsing functionality for the radiated electromagnetic signal(s) is to control the power control arrangement to alternate between the antenna output mode and the antenna block mode for the duration of the desired pulsing of the electromagnetic signal(s). Specifically, the power control arrangement can operate in the antenna output mode during a chirp and operate in the antenna block mode between chirps (e.g., at any intervening interval between chirps). This significantly reduces interference.

[0039] It is recognized that if the input signal(s) for generating the pulsating electromagnetic signal(s) were completely disconnected from the power amplifier(s) between pulses, the power consumed by each power amplifier would suddenly drop. In particular, the current consumed by each power amplifier will suddenly decrease between chirps. This sudden drop in the power (and in particular, the current) consumed by the power amplifier(s) can generate significant noise in the power amplifier arrangement and the power control arrangement, particularly ringing in filters if no filtering is provided.

[0040] It is also recognized that one approach to reducing the effect of this sudden drop in power is to configure the power amplifier arrangement to sink a non-zero amount of current between chirps. This can be achieved by activating the dummy load arrangement (e.g., in Fig. 2) during antenna block mode.

[0041] It is noted that the power control arrangement may also be operable in an amplifier block mode, in which the power amplifier(s) is / are controlled to consume no or negligible current when the dummy load arrangement is deactivated. This may be achieved by activating the second diverter (e.g., in Fig. 2), e.g., each power amplifier, during the antenna block mode. Such a mode can be used between bursts (frames) of chirps, e.g., during a processing phase. In particular, such a technique may be advantageous for use during a processing phase of radar operation or functionality.

[0042] Fig. Figure 3 illustrates the current I drawn by a power amplifier array over time t under various conditions during a burst mode of operation for the antenna array. The waveforms shown are used to demonstrate the effect of switching between an antenna output mode and an antenna block mode.

[0043] As previously explained, the power control arrangement operates in antenna output mode during a chirp or pulse. Between chirps or pulses, the power control arrangement operates in antenna block mode. This prevents the antenna(s) from radiating electromagnetic signals between chirps.

[0044] A first waveform 310 represents the current drawn by the power amplifier arrangement when the power amplifier arrangement is configured to draw no or negligible current between chirps or pulses, and no dummy load arrangement is activated (i.e., during antenna block mode). During antenna output mode, the current may be stable at one value or change slightly during a chirp or pulse. During antenna block mode, there is a significant drop in the drawn current, which may cause noise in the power amplifier arrangement and / or the power control arrangement. In other words, there is a significant difference ΔI 1 between the current sampled during a chirp and the current sampled between chirps.

[0045] In the context of the present disclosure, a negligible current is one that has a magnitude of less than 5%, and in other examples, less than 1%, of the current consumed by an electrical element when it is operating or activated.

[0046] A second waveform 320 represents the current drawn by the power amplifier arrangement when a dummy load arrangement is activated between chirps or pulses (i.e., during antenna block mode). The drop in current drawn by the power amplifier arrangement is significantly reduced or attenuated. In particular, the dummy load arrangement draws some power previously drawn by the power amplifier(s) in generating the amplified input signal(s). This significantly reduces a value of the difference ΔI 2between the current sampled during a chirp and the current sampled between chirps.

[0047] A further improvement of this technique is described below.

[0048] In particular, as illustrated by the second waveform, it was found that even when the dummy load arrangement is used (e.g., between chirps or during antenna block mode), there is still a noticeable drop in the current consumed, i.e., the value of ΔI 2 is significant. Thus, noise is still present or provided when the power control arrangement switches from antenna output mode to antenna block mode.

[0049] It is proposed to supplement a power amplifier arrangement with a calibration arrangement comprising a detection arrangement and a current control arrangement. In practice, the calibration arrangement may form part of the power control arrangement.

[0050] The sensing arrangement is configured to sense a value of one or more power responsive parameters that changes in response to a power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when it or they are activated.

[0051] The current control arrangement is configured to control, in response to the sensed value of the one or more power-responsive parameters, an amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load arrangement when activated. Thus, the dummy load arrangement is calibratable to have a calibratable or modifiable electrical current draw when activated. The current control arrangement defines the amount of current drawn by the dummy load arrangement when activated.

[0052] Fig. 5 is a simplified flow diagram illustrating a method 500 performed by the calibration assembly.

[0053] The method 500 includes a step 510 of sensing or monitoring a value of one or more power-responsive parameters that changes in response to a power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when it or they are activated (i.e., during the antenna output mode of the power control arrangement). Step 510 is performed by the sensing arrangement.

[0054] The method 500 also includes a step 520 of controlling, in response to the sensed value of the one or more power-responsive parameters, an amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load assembly when it is activated. Step 520 is performed by the current control assembly.

[0055] In examples, the current control arrangement may be configured to increase the current drawn by the dummy load arrangement when activated, in response to the value of the power-responsive parameter (e.g., during the antenna output mode of the power control arrangement) indicating an increase in the power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when activated. This significantly reduces a difference between the power drawn by the power amplifier arrangement during the antenna output mode and the antenna block mode of the power control arrangement.

[0056] In examples, the power-responsive parameter is responsive to the power consumed by the entire power amplifier arrangement. In such examples, the current control arrangement may be configured to adjust (e.g., minimize or reduce) the value of the power-responsive parameter during the antenna block mode (of the power control arrangement) to the value of the power-responsive parameter during the antenna output mode (of the power control arrangement). This may act to effectively reduce the value of the difference between the current consumed in the antenna output mode and the current consumed in the antenna block mode.

[0057] Thus, step 520 may be adapted to further comprise monitoring the value of the one or more power-responsive parameters during the antenna block mode and controlling the current in response to the monitored value during the antenna block mode, e.g., to match that of the value of the one or more power-responsive parameters during the antenna output mode.

[0058] In this way, step 520 may include performing feedback control of at least the current through the dummy load arrangement (during the antenna block mode) to reduce or minimize a difference between the (average) current drawn by the dummy load arrangement when it is activated (i.e., during the antenna block mode) and the (average) current drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when it or they are activated (i.e., during the antenna output mode). In this way, a mismatch between the current drawn by the power amplifier(s) when it is activated (i.e., producing an amplified input signal) and a current drawn by the dummy load arrangement when it is activated (i.e., when no amplified input signal is produced) is calibrated.

[0059] The proposed approach (providing an antenna blocking mode) avoids the transmission of electromagnetic radiation between desired emissions of electromagnetic radiation, which could otherwise interfere with or disrupt the desired radiation.

[0060] The use of a dummy load arrangement also significantly reduces the settling time of the power supply for the power amplifier arrangement, as the load step is significantly smaller. This improves the amplification quality.

[0061] The calibration arrangement may be integrated into the previously disclosed power amplifier arrangement, power supply arrangement and / or wireless transmission arrangement.

[0062] In examples, a radar power supply arrangement is provided that includes a power amplifier arrangement as described herein, including the calibration arrangement, and a power control arrangement. The power amplifier arrangement may form a portion of a microwave management integrated circuit (MMIC), alternatively referred to as a monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC). The power control arrangement may form part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0063] A number of exemplary approaches to controlling the power drawn by the dummy load arrangement are described below.

[0064] With reference to Fig. 2, in one example, if the dummy load arrangement is (at least partially) integrated into (each of) a first set of one or more power amplifiers, then controlling the amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load arrangement may be performed by controlling, in response to the sensed value of the power-responsive parameter, a biasing of one or more of the first series of gain stages of the first set of one or more power amplifiers when the dummy load arrangement is activated.

[0065] Controlling a bias of each of the first series of gain stages can be achieved, for example, by controlling a bias voltage V b1 , V b2for each gain stage. Controlling biasing of the gain stage(s) facilitates control over the current drawn by the first series of gain stages while the dummy load arrangement is activated.

[0066] Fig. 4 illustrates an alternative power amplifier 400 incorporating an alternative dummy load arrangement 420. Elements of the power amplifier 400 that are otherwise identical to the previously disclosed power amplifier retain their corresponding reference numerals.

[0067] In this example, the dummy load assembly 420 includes a third bypass switch S3 connected between the power line 290 and a first variable resistor VR1 of the dummy load assembly 420. The first variable resistor VR1 connects the third bypass switch S3 to a ground or return path GND.

[0068] This third diversion switch S3 conducts when it is triggered by a corresponding control signal S C1-3 (by the power control arrangement), a power flow through the first variable resistor VR1 is converted. The resistance of the first variable resistor VR1 can be controlled by the current control arrangement to thereby control the power drawn by the first variable resistor and, in turn, the dummy load arrangement. This facilitates control of the power drawn by the dummy load arrangement.

[0069] Thus, the resistance of the first variable resistor VR1 can be controlled in response to the sensed value of the one or more power-responsive parameters, thereby controlling an amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load assembly 420 when activated. Thus, the dummy load assembly 420 is calibratable to have a calibratable or modifiable electrical current draw when activated.

[0070] The first variable resistor VR1 may be replaced by any other electrical component for which a current drawn through the electrical component is controllable, e.g., a current source or the like.

[0071] The previously described examples effectively integrate the dummy load arrangement into the one or more power amplifiers. Integrating the dummy load arrangement into the one or more power amplifiers provides a more compact power amplifier arrangement and enables more granular or finer control of the power drawn by the dummy load arrangement. Such techniques enable flexible control over which portions of the dummy load arrangement are active at any given time, allowing flexibility over the operation of the dummy load arrangement.

[0072] In particular, the previously described examples integrate a portion of a dummy load array into each power amplifier. This facilitates improved control over the current drawn by the dummy load array.

[0073] Fig. 6 illustrates a power amplifier arrangement 600 having another example of a dummy load arrangement 620.

[0074] In this example, dummy load assembly 620 includes a fourth bypass switch S4 connected to the power line that provides power to all power amplifiers. Dummy load assembly 620 further includes a second variable resistor VR2 connected to a ground or return path GND. The resistance of variable resistor VR2 may be controlled to facilitate control or calibration of the current or power drawn by the variable resistor. The dummy load assembly is activated by activating the fourth bypass switch. The current control assembly may be configured accordingly to modify or adjust an amount of resistance of the second variable resistor to control or define an amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load assembly when activated.

[0075] The second variable resistor VR2 may be replaced by any other electrical component for which a current drawn through the electrical component is controllable, e.g., a current source or the like.

[0076] Other suitable examples of a calibratable dummy load arrangement for use in examples will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In particular, alternative circuits and circuit components with a controllable current flow are readily apparent.

[0077] A wide variety of different performance-sensitive parameters and control schemes are provided in the present disclosure.

[0078] Examples of suitable power-responsive parameters include: a power drawn by the power amplifier arrangement (e.g., during antenna output mode); a power or current drawn by each power amplifier of the power amplifier arrangement (e.g., during antenna output mode); a temperature of the power amplifier arrangement (which changes in response to drawn power); and / or a control parameter of the power control arrangement that defines the input power (such as a pulse width modulation duty cycle for generating the input power).

[0079] Fig. Figure 7 illustrates a portion of an exemplary power amplifier arrangement 110 for illustrating a calibration arrangement 700 using a first example of a power-responsive parameter. For illustrative clarity, the input signal(s), the amplified input signal(s), and the control signal(s) for each power amplifier 111, 112, ..., 11X have not been shown.

[0080] The calibration arrangement 700 comprises a detection arrangement 710 and a current control arrangement 720.

[0081] The sensing arrangement 710 is configured to sense a value of one or more power responsive parameters that changes in response to a power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when it or they are activated.

[0082] The current control arrangement 720 is configured to control, in response to the sensed value of the one or more power-responsive parameters, an amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load arrangement when activated. This may be done, for example, by using a set of S CC by one or more current control signals to adjust, for example: a biasing of one or more gain stages, a resistance of a variable resistor, or any other suitable mechanism for adjusting a current drawn by a dummy load arrangement.

[0083] In this example, the power-responsive parameter is the (e.g., average) current drawn by all power amplifiers 111, 112, ..., 11X during antenna output mode. This can be calculated, as shown, by individually sensing the current drawn by each power amplifier when it is enabled and summing the individually sensed current(s) to determine the value of the power-responsive parameter.

[0084] Thus, the sensing arrangement 710 is configured to sense an amount of electrical current drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when activated as one of the one or more power-responsive parameters. This value may be referred to as the "output mode current" because it represents the current drawn by the power amplifier(s) during output mode.

[0085] In one example, the sensing arrangement 710 includes a single sensing element for sensing a magnitude of current at an input to the sensing element; and a multiplexing arrangement configured to sequentially connect each power amplifier, when enabled, to the input to the sensing element, thereby sequentially sensing the current drawn by each power amplifier when enabled. The sensed currents may then be summed to generate the value for one of the power-responsive parameters.

[0086] In other examples, the sensing arrangement 710 includes a respective sensing element for each power amplifier, each sensing element configured to sense the current drawn by the respective power amplifier when activated. The sensed currents (across all sensing elements) may then be summed to generate the value for one of the power-responsive parameters.

[0087] In another example, the sensing arrangement comprises a sensing element configured to monitor the current drawn by the power amplifier while the power control arrangement is in antenna output mode. Thus, the total current drawn by the power amplifier(s) can be monitored.

[0088] An example of a (single or respective) sensing element is a current mirror. Other approaches may be derived by those skilled in the art based on the present disclosure.

[0089] In some examples, current control arrangement 720 may be configured to adjust the amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load arrangement when it is enabled (i.e., the output mode current) to the amount of electrical current drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when it is enabled (i.e., a "block mode current"). In this way, the amount of output mode current increases, as does the block mode current.

[0090] If the dummy load arrangement is integrated with the power amplifier(s), monitoring the block mode current may also be achieved, for example, by monitoring (using the same sensing arrangement 710) the electrical current drawn by the power amplifier(s) during antenna block mode. This may be achieved using a same or similar approach to that used to monitor the current drawn by the power amplifier(s) during antenna block mode. The block mode current may be compared to the output mode current to perform feedback (closed-loop) control of the block mode current, e.g., to adjust the output mode current by controlling the current drawn by the dummy load arrangement during antenna block mode with current control arrangement 720.

[0091] If the dummy load arrangement is not integrated into the power amplifier(s), monitoring the block mode current can be achieved by monitoring the electrical current drawn by the dummy load arrangement during antenna block mode. This can be achieved using a current sensor, e.g., positioned in series with the dummy load arrangement. The block mode current can be compared to the output mode current to perform feedback control (closed-loop) of the block mode current, e.g., to adjust the output mode current by controlling the current drawn by the dummy load arrangement during antenna block mode with the current control arrangement 720.

[0092] In some examples, it may not be necessary to perform closed-loop feedback in this manner. Instead, an open-loop feedback control scheme could be used, e.g., if the current drawn by the dummy load arrangement is controlled using only the value of the power-responsive parameter.

[0093] As another example of a power-responsive parameter, the sensing arrangement may be configured to sense a voltage of the power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when the one or more power amplifiers are activated as one of the one or more power-responsive parameters. The voltage sensing may be readily performed, for example, using an analog-to-digital converter connected to a suitable node of a conductor carrying the power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers (i.e., a power line), as would be readily apparent to one skilled in the art.

[0094] A voltage of the power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers changes in response to the current drawn by the power amplifier. Thus, monitoring these voltages facilitates the detection of a parameter that changes in response to the power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers.

[0095] Accordingly, the current control arrangement may be configured to adjust the amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load when activated in response to changes in the voltage of the power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers at the input interface.

[0096] As another example of a power-responsive parameter, the sensing arrangement may be configured to sense a temperature of the power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers (e.g., when the one or more power amplifiers is or are enabled).

[0097] The temperature of the power amplifier(s) increases with an increasing amount of power drawn by the power amplifier(s). This provides a power-responsive parameter that can be used to control or define the current drawn by the dummy load assembly during antenna block mode. In particular, if the temperature increases during antenna block mode, then the current control assembly can increase the current drawn by the dummy load assembly when it is enabled (i.e., during antenna block mode).

[0098] The power responsive parameter is not limited to a parameter that can be monitored in or at the power amplifier assembly.

[0099] As another example, the power-responsive parameter may be a parameter of a power control arrangement configured to generate the input power for the one or more amplifiers.

[0100] For example, in an example where the power control arrangement is configured to generate the input power using pulse width modulation, the sensing arrangement is configured to sense, as the power-responsive parameter, a PWM parameter that changes in response to a change in one or more characteristics of the pulse width modulation performed by the power control arrangement. This may include, for example, a duty cycle of the pulse width modulation performed by the power control arrangement.

[0101] This approach recognizes that the functionality of other elements of the wireless transmission arrangement will vary to control or depend on the power dissipated by the one or more power amplifiers during the antenna output mode of the power control arrangement. The characteristic(s) of such components can be used as one or more power-responsive parameters.

[0102] A number of the dummy load array examples described above incorporate a portion of the dummy load array into each power amplifier. This facilitates granular control over which portions of the dummy load arrays are activated during antenna block mode (i.e., by the power control array).

[0103] The dummy load arrangement may include a bypass switch for each respective one of a first set of one or more power amplifiers. Each bypass switch is connected between the intermediate node of the respective power amplifier (i.e., the end of the first series of amplification stages) and a ground or return path. Fig. 2 illustrates a suitable example of a power amplifier for the first set of one or more power amplifiers.

[0104] The power control arrangement may be configured to activate the backup arrangement during the antenna block mode by controlling which of the one or more redirection switches are activated. Thus, not all of the redirection switches need to be activated during the antenna block mode.

[0105] The power control arrangement and the current control arrangement may cooperate to activate an appropriate number of diverter switches to facilitate a desired amount of current drawn across the activated diverter switches.

[0106] In some examples, the power control arrangement is configured to control which of the one or more redirection switches are activated during the antenna block mode in response to which of the one or more power amplifiers is or are activated during the antenna output mode.

[0107] For example, the power control arrangement may be configured to activate only one or more redirection switches connected to an intermediate node of a power amplifier during antenna block mode, which is not activated during antenna output mode. This provides a cross-calibration technique.

[0108] This approach can, for example, distribute a processing workload across the physical space of the power amplifier array, e.g., to reduce a risk of localized temperature rise and / or reduce a risk of damage to any individual component of the power amplifier array (which may otherwise occur, e.g., if gain stages of a same power amplifier were continuously active throughout the antenna output mode and the antenna block mode).

[0109] In other examples, the power control arrangement is configured to activate only one or more redirection switches connected to an intermediate node of a power amplifier that is activated during the antenna block mode. For example, the power control arrangement may be configured to activate all redirection switches connected to an intermediate node of a power amplifier that is activated during the antenna block mode.

[0110] This approach provides a balanced calibration technique that significantly reduces any sudden changes in the power provided to or received by each power amplifier when the power control arrangement switches between the antenna output mode and the antenna block mode, thereby reducing any risk of noise or ringing in any electrical circuitry of at least the power amplifier(s).

[0111] At least to reduce power waste, the current control arrangement may be configured to control the biasing of only the first series of gain stages belonging to power amplifiers to which a bypass switch is connected and which is enabled during the antenna block mode.

[0112] In addition to the examples described above, the following examples are disclosed.

[0113] Example 1 is a power amplifier arrangement for amplifying signals for transmission by one or more antennas of a wireless transmission arrangement, the power amplifier arrangement comprising: an input interface configured to receive one or more input signals; one or more power amplifiers, each power amplifier configured to: when activated, to amplify a respective one of the one or more input signals and to provide the amplified input signal to a respective antenna of the wireless transmission arrangement; and when deactivated, to prevent the provision of the amplified input signal to the respective antenna of the wireless transmission arrangement; a dummy load arrangement configured to: when activated, draw an electrical current from the input interface; and when disabled, draw no or negligible electrical current from the input interface; a power control arrangement configured to controllably activate and deactivate the one or more power amplifiers and the dummy load arrangement, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to controllably switch between: an antenna output mode in which the power control arrangement activates at least one of the one or more power amplifiers and deactivates the dummy load arrangement; and an antenna block mode in which the power control signal activates the dummy load arrangement and deactivates the one or more power amplifiers; and a calibration arrangement comprising: a sensing arrangement configured to sense a value of one or more power-responsive parameters that changes in response to a power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when it or they are activated; and a current control arrangement configured to control, in response to the sensed value of the one or more power-responsive parameters, an amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load arrangement when activated.

[0114] Example 2 is the power amplifier arrangement of Example 1, wherein the sensing arrangement is configured to sense an amount of electrical current drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when activated as one of the one or more power responsive parameters.

[0115] Example 3 is the power amplifier assembly of Example 2, wherein the current control assembly is configured to adjust the amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load assembly when activated to the amount of electrical current drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when activated.

[0116] Example 4 is the power amplifier arrangement of example 2 or 3, wherein the sensing arrangement is configured to: individually sense a current drawn by each power amplifier when activated; and sum the individually sensed current to determine the value of the power-responsive parameter.

[0117] Example 5 is the power amplifier arrangement of Example 4, wherein the sensing arrangement comprises: a single sensing element for sensing a magnitude of a current at an input to the sensing element; and a multiplexing arrangement configured to sequentially connect each power amplifier, when enabled, to the input to the sensing element, thereby sequentially sensing the current drawn by each power amplifier when enabled.

[0118] Example 6 is the power amplifier arrangement of any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the sensing arrangement is configured to sense a voltage of the power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when the one or more power amplifiers is or are activated as one of the one or more power responsive parameters.

[0119] Example 7 is the power amplifier arrangement of Example 6, wherein the current control arrangement is configured to adjust the amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load when activated in response to the voltage of the power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers changing.

[0120] Example 8 is the power amplifier arrangement according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein: each power amplifier comprises a first series of one or more gain stages connected between the input interface and an intermediate node and a second series of one or more gain stages connected between the intermediate node and the respective antenna; the dummy load arrangement comprises a bypass switch for each of a respective one of a first set of one or more power amplifiers, each bypass switch being connected between the intermediate node of the respective power amplifier and a ground or return path; and the current control arrangement is configured to control, in response to the sensed value of the power-responsive parameter, a biasing of one or more of the first series of gain stages of the first set of one or more power amplifiers when the dummy load arrangement is activated.

[0121] Example 9 is the power amplifier arrangement of Example 8, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to activate the spare arrangement during the antenna block mode by controlling which of the one or more redirection switches are activated.

[0122] Example 10 is the power amplifier arrangement of Example 9, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to control which of the one or more redirection switches are activated during the antenna block mode in response to which of the one or more power amplifiers are activated during the antenna output mode.

[0123] Example 11 is the power amplifier arrangement of Example 10, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to activate, during the antenna block mode, only one or more bypass switches connected to an intermediate node of a power amplifier that is not activated during the antenna output mode.

[0124] Example 12 is the power amplifier arrangement of Example 10, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to activate, during the antenna block mode, only one or more bypass switches connected to an intermediate node of a power amplifier that is activated during the antenna output mode.

[0125] Example 13 is the power amplifier arrangement of Example 12, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to activate, during the antenna block mode, all bypass switches connected to an intermediate node of a power amplifier that is activated during the antenna output mode.

[0126] Example 14 is the power amplifier arrangement of any one of Examples 9 to 13, wherein the current control arrangement is configured to control the biasing of only the first series of gain stages associated with power amplifiers to which a bypass switch is connected and which are enabled during the antenna block mode.

[0127] Example 15 is the power amplifier arrangement of any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the current control arrangement is configured to change its operation only in response to a calibration signal indicating that calibration is to be performed.

[0128] Example 16 is the power amplifier arrangement of Example 15, further comprising a calibration signal generator configured to generate a calibration signal in response to the value of at least one of the one or more power-responsive parameters exceeding a predetermined threshold.

[0129] Example 17 is the power amplifier assembly of any one of Examples 1 to 16, wherein the sensing assembly is configured to sense, as one of the one or more power-responsive parameters, a temperature of the power amplifier assembly.

[0130] Example 18 is the power amplifier arrangement of any one of Examples 1 to 17, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to switch between operation in antenna output mode and antenna block mode.

[0131] Example 19 is a radar power supply arrangement comprising: the power amplifier arrangement of any one of Examples 1 to 18; and a power control arrangement configured to generate an input power to the one or more power amplifiers, wherein the sensing arrangement is configured to sense, as one of the one or more power-responsive parameters, a value of a control parameter of the power control arrangement that changes in response to a power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when it or they are activated.

[0132] Example 20 is the radar power supply arrangement of Example 19, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to generate the input power using pulse width modulation, wherein the sensing arrangement is configured to sense, as the power responsive parameter, a PWM parameter that changes in response to a change in one or more characteristics of the pulse width modulation performed by the power control arrangement.

[0133] Although specific examples have been illustrated and described herein, those skilled in the art will recognize that a variety of alternative and / or equivalent implementations may be substituted for the specific examples shown and described without departing from the scope of the present invention. This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the specific examples discussed herein. Therefore, it is intended that this invention be limited only by the claims and their equivalents.

[0134] In the context of the present disclosure, an arrangement may be formed as a single contiguous element (e.g., a single semiconductor chip) or across a plurality of separable and distinct elements, e.g., interconnected chips.

[0135] It should be noted that the methods and arrangements comprising their examples, as set forth in the present document, can be used alone or in combination with the other methods and arrangements disclosed in this document. In addition, the features set forth in the context of one arrangement are also applicable to a corresponding method, and vice versa. One skilled in the art would be readily able to define and / or adapt a method for performing the function of an arrangement or combination of arrangements disclosed herein, and vice versa. Furthermore, all aspects of the methods and arrangements set forth in the present document can be combined in any desired manner. In particular, the features of the claims can be combined with one another in any desired manner.

[0136] It should be noted that the description and drawings merely illustrate the principles of the proposed methods and arrangements. Those skilled in the art will be able to implement various arrangements which, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the invention and are included within its spirit and scope. Furthermore, all examples and embodiments set forth in this document are generally expressly intended to be for illustrative purposes only to assist the reader in understanding the principles of the proposed methods and arrangements. Furthermore, all statements herein providing principles, aspects, and embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to include equivalents thereof.

Claims

[1] Power amplifier arrangement for amplifying signals for transmission by one or more antennas of a wireless transmission arrangement, the power amplifier arrangement comprising: an input interface configured to receive one or more input signals; one or more power amplifiers, each power amplifier configured to: when activated, to amplify a respective one of the one or more input signals and to provide the amplified input signal to a respective antenna of the wireless transmission arrangement; and when deactivated, to prevent the provision of the amplified input signal to the respective antenna of the wireless transmission arrangement; a dummy load arrangement configured to: when activated, draw an electrical current from the input interface; and when disabled, draw no or negligible electrical current from the input interface; a power control arrangement configured to controllably activate and deactivate the one or more power amplifiers and the dummy load arrangement, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to controllably switch between: an antenna output mode in which the power control arrangement activates at least one of the one or more power amplifiers and deactivates the dummy load arrangement; and an antenna block mode in which the power control signal activates the dummy load arrangement and deactivates the one or more power amplifiers; and a calibration arrangement comprising: a sensing arrangement configured to sense a value of one or more power-responsive parameters that changes in response to a power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when it or they are activated; and a current control arrangement configured to control, in response to the sensed value of the one or more power-responsive parameters, an amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load arrangement when activated. [2] The power amplifier arrangement of claim 1, wherein the sensing arrangement is configured to sense an amount of electrical current drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when it or they are activated as one of the one or more power responsive parameters. [3] The power amplifier arrangement of claim 2, wherein the current control arrangement is configured to adjust the amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load arrangement when activated to the amount of electrical current drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when it or they are activated. [4] A power amplifier arrangement according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the detection arrangement is configured to: individually detect a current drawn by each power amplifier when it is activated; and to sum the individually sensed current to determine the value of the power-responsive parameter. [5] A power amplifier arrangement according to claim 4, wherein the detection arrangement comprises: a single sensing element for sensing a magnitude of a current at an input to the sensing element; and a multiplexing arrangement configured to sequentially connect each power amplifier, when enabled, to the input to the sensing element, thereby sequentially sensing the current drawn by each power amplifier when enabled. [6] The power amplifier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the sensing arrangement is configured to sense a voltage of the power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when the one or more power amplifiers is or are activated as one of the one or more power responsive parameters. [7] The power amplifier arrangement of claim 6, wherein the current control arrangement is configured to adjust the amount of electrical current drawn by the dummy load when activated in response to the voltage of the power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers changing. [8] Power amplifier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: each power amplifier comprises a first series of one or more gain stages connected between the input interface and an intermediate node and a second series of one or more gain stages connected between the intermediate node and the respective antenna; the dummy load arrangement comprises a bypass switch for each of a respective one of a first set of one or more power amplifiers, each bypass switch being connected between the intermediate node of the respective power amplifier and a ground or return path; and the current control arrangement is configured to control, in response to the sensed value of the power-responsive parameter, biasing of one or more of the first series of gain stages of the first set of one or more power amplifiers when the dummy load arrangement is activated. [9] The power amplifier arrangement of claim 8, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to activate the spare arrangement during the antenna block mode by controlling which of the one or more redirection switches are activated. [10] The power amplifier arrangement of claim 9, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to control which of the one or more redirection switches are activated during the antenna block mode in response to which of the one or more power amplifiers are activated during the antenna output mode. [11] The power amplifier arrangement of claim 10, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to activate during the antenna block mode only one or more bypass switches connected to an intermediate node of a power amplifier that is not activated during the antenna output mode. [12] The power amplifier arrangement of claim 10, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to activate during the antenna block mode only one or more bypass switches connected to an intermediate node of a power amplifier activated during the antenna output mode. [13] The power amplifier arrangement of claim 12, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to activate, during the antenna block mode, all bypass switches connected to an intermediate node of a power amplifier activated during the antenna output mode. [14] A power amplifier arrangement according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the current control arrangement is configured to control the biasing of only the first series of gain stages belonging to power amplifiers to which a bypass switch is connected and which are activated during the antenna block mode. [15] A power amplifier arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the current control arrangement is configured to change its operation only in response to a calibration signal indicating that calibration is to be performed. [16] The power amplifier arrangement of claim 15, further comprising a calibration signal generator configured to generate a calibration signal in response to the value of at least one of the one or more power-responsive parameters exceeding a predetermined threshold. [17] The power amplifier arrangement of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the sensing arrangement is configured to sense, as one of the one or more power-responsive parameters, a temperature of the power amplifier arrangement. [18] A power amplifier arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to switch between operation in the antenna output mode and the antenna block mode. [19] Radar power supply arrangement comprising: the power amplifier arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 18; and a power control arrangement configured to generate an input power for the one or more power amplifiers, wherein the sensing arrangement is configured to sense, as one of the one or more power-responsive parameters, a value of a control parameter of the power control arrangement that changes in response to a power drawn by the one or more power amplifiers when it or they are activated. [20] The radar power supply arrangement of claim 19, wherein the power control arrangement is configured to generate the input power using pulse width modulation, wherein the detection arrangement is configured to detect as the power responsive parameter a PWM parameter that changes in response to a change in one or more characteristics of the pulse width modulation performed by the power control arrangement.

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