Integrated sensing and communication device
By designing an integrated communication and sensing device, the sensing function of FDD MM is realized by using downlink and uplink frequency band filters, amplifiers and antenna arrays. This solves the problem of TDD frequency band affecting adjacent facilities, realizes rapid switching and signal isolation of FDD MM sensing and communication modes, and improves system performance.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-05
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-21
Smart Images

Figure CN2025080675_21052026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Integrated communication and sensing equipment
[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410382077.3, filed on March 29, 2024, entitled "Integrated Communication and Sensing Device", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0002] This application relates to the field of communications, and more specifically, to an integrated communication sensing device. Background Technology
[0003] In the evolution from the 5th generation (5G) mobile communication system to 5G-advanced (5G-A) or the 6th generation (6G) technology, integrated communication and sensing technology is considered one of the key technologies for expanding the service capabilities of mobile communication networks. The core idea of this technology is to add sensing capabilities to the mobile communication network, building the ability to detect, track, and image targets, thereby integrating communication and sensing capabilities into a single network. This leverages the wide-area coverage of mobile communication base stations to expand the application scenarios of mobile communication networks.
[0004] Currently, 5G-A and 6G mobile communication systems have incorporated "communication and sensing integration," or "sensing fusion," as one of their fundamental characteristics. For example, in the field of low-altitude drone detection, 5G-A's sensing fusion technology is already commercially viable. Sensing fusion technologies mostly utilize the same spectrum, thus prioritizing time division duplex (TDD) duplexing. Furthermore, in TDD duplex mode, communication and sensing typically operate in different time periods to avoid cross-interference between communication and sensing signals.
[0005] However, in specific application areas, on the one hand, because TDD currently uses a relatively higher frequency band compared to Frequency Division Duplex (FDD), it has certain advantages for sensing in specific application scenarios, such as long-range ocean sensing in the presence of large waves, long-range rain, snow, and fog monitoring, and monitoring micro-deformation. On the other hand, the current TDD spectrum, such as 3.5GHz and U6G (i.e., 6425MHz to 7125MHz), may affect deployed facilities in adjacent frequency bands, especially satellites. However, using FDD for sensing operations in these bands may actually avoid these problems. Therefore, research on sensing in the FDD band is essential. Summary of the Invention
[0006] This application provides an integrated communication and sensing device that enables FDD massive multiple-input multiple-output (Massive MIMO) (hereinafter referred to as FDD MM) to support sensing functions.
[0007] In a first aspect, an integrated communication and sensing device is provided, comprising: a downlink frequency band filter and an uplink frequency band filter. The downlink frequency band filter is used to output a sensing excitation signal; the downlink frequency band filter is also used to output a communication downlink signal; the downlink frequency band filter is also used to receive a sensing echo signal after the sensing excitation signal senses a target, and to send the sensing echo signal to a first amplifier; the uplink frequency band filter is used to receive the communication uplink signal; wherein the time domain resources of the downlink communication signal output by the downlink frequency band filter are different from the time domain resources of the sensing excitation signal output by the downlink frequency band filter.
[0008] In the technical solution of this application, the integrated communication and sensing device transmits sensing excitation signals and communication downlink signals on different time-domain resources through a downlink frequency band filter. The downlink frequency band filter is also used to receive the sensing echo signal after the sensing excitation signal senses the target, and send the sensing echo signal to a first amplifier. Further, the uplink frequency band filter is used to receive the communication uplink signal and send the communication uplink signal to the first amplifier. According to the above technical solution, FDD MM can support sensing functions.
[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect, some implementations of the first aspect further include the first amplifier and the second amplifier, the second amplifier being used to output the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal to the downlink frequency band filter, the time domain resources of the sensing excitation signal output by the second amplifier and the time domain resources of the communication downlink signal output by the second amplifier being different; the first amplifier being used to receive the sensing echo signal from the downlink frequency band filter; the first amplifier being used to receive the communication uplink signal from the uplink frequency band filter.
[0010] According to the above technical solution, sensing operations are performed on the downlink spectrum, eliminating the need for broadband processing in the second amplifier. Furthermore, the sensing excitation signal can be transmitted at a power similar to that used for transmitting communication signals, thus improving performance while reducing costs. Moreover, sensing operations on the downlink spectrum do not affect the performance of the uplink communication.
[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, some implementations of the first aspect further include a first switch, wherein the downlink frequency band filter is used to output the sensing excitation signal through the first switch; the downlink frequency band filter is also used to output the communication downlink signal through the first switch.
[0012] According to the above technical solution, FDD MM can support rapid switching between sensing functions and communication modes.
[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, some implementations of the first aspect also include a second switch, wherein the downlink frequency band filter is further used to receive the sensed echo signal through the second switch; and the uplink frequency band filter is further used to receive the communication uplink signal through the second switch.
[0014] According to the above technical solution, FDD MM can support rapid switching between sensing functions and communication modes.
[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, some implementations of the first aspect further include a first antenna array and a second antenna array, wherein the first antenna array is used to receive and transmit the sensing excitation signal from the downlink frequency band filter; the second antenna array is used to receive and transmit the communication downlink signal from the downlink frequency band filter; the second antenna array is also used to receive and output the sensing echo signal to the uplink frequency band filter; and the second antenna array is also used to receive and output the communication uplink signal to the uplink frequency band filter.
[0016] According to the above technical solution, FDD MM can support rapid switching between sensing antenna arrays and communication antenna arrays.
[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first antenna array and the second antenna array are isolated from each other.
[0018] According to the above technical solution, the transmit / receive isolation between the first antenna array and the second antenna array can be improved, avoiding mutual interference or blockage between sensing signals and communication signals.
[0019] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the sensed echo signal and the communication uplink signal are transmitted on different frequency domain resources.
[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the second antenna array includes a receiving channel for receiving the sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal.
[0021] According to the above technical solution, the vertical scanning dimension or vertical scanning range of the second antenna array can be expanded during sensing.
[0022] In conjunction with the first aspect, some implementations of the first aspect also include a phase shifter for receiving the sensed echo signal and the communication uplink signal from the first amplifier.
[0023] According to the above technical solution, the vertical scanning dimension or vertical scanning range of the second antenna array in the sensing mode can be expanded. Furthermore, the uplink receiving performance in the communication mode can be improved or optimized, which is also an enhancement to the communication mode.
[0024] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first amplifier is a power amplifier PA and the second amplifier is a low-noise amplifier LNA.
[0025] Secondly, an integrated communication and sensing device is provided, comprising: a downlink frequency band filter and an uplink frequency band filter. The downlink frequency band filter is used to output a communication downlink signal; the uplink frequency band filter is used to output a sensing excitation signal; the uplink frequency band filter is also used to receive a sensing echo signal after the sensing excitation signal senses a target, and to send the sensing echo signal to a first amplifier; the uplink frequency band filter is also used to receive a communication uplink signal; wherein the time domain resources of the uplink frequency band filter receiving the sensing echo signal are different from the time domain resources of the uplink frequency band filter receiving the communication uplink signal.
[0026] In the technical solution of this application, the integrated communication and sensing device transmits downlink communication signals and sensing excitation signals through downlink frequency band filters and uplink frequency band filters, respectively. The uplink frequency band filter is also used to receive the sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal after the sensing excitation signal senses the target, and then transmits the sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal to the first amplifier. According to the above technical solution, the FDD MM can support sensing functions.
[0027] In conjunction with the second aspect, some implementations of the second aspect further include the first amplifier and the second amplifier, the second amplifier being used to output the communication downlink signal to the downlink frequency band filter; the second amplifier being used to output the sensing excitation signal to the uplink frequency band filter; and the first amplifier being used to receive the sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal from the uplink frequency band filter.
[0028] According to the above technical solution, sensing operations are performed on the uplink spectrum, eliminating the need for broadband processing in the first amplifier, thus improving performance while reducing costs. Furthermore, performing sensing operations on the uplink spectrum does not affect the performance of the downlink communication.
[0029] In conjunction with the second aspect, some implementations of the second aspect also include a second switch, wherein the uplink frequency band filter is further used to receive the sensed echo signal through the second switch; the uplink frequency band filter is further used to receive the communication uplink signal through the second switch.
[0030] In conjunction with the second aspect, some implementations of the second aspect further include a first antenna array and a second antenna array. The first antenna array is used to receive and transmit the sensing excitation signal from the uplink frequency band filter; the second antenna array is used to receive and transmit the communication downlink signal from the downlink frequency band filter; the second antenna array is also used to receive and output the sensing echo signal to the uplink frequency band filter; and the second antenna array is also used to receive and output the communication uplink signal to the uplink frequency band filter.
[0031] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first antenna array and the second antenna array are isolated from each other.
[0032] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal are transmitted on different frequency domain resources.
[0033] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the second antenna array includes a receiving channel for receiving the sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal.
[0034] In conjunction with the second aspect, some implementations of the second aspect also include a phase shifter for receiving the sensed echo signal and the communication uplink signal from the first amplifier.
[0035] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first amplifier is a power amplifier PA and the second amplifier is a low-noise amplifier LNA.
[0036] It should be understood that the beneficial effects of the second aspect can be referred to the beneficial effects described in the first aspect.
[0037] Thirdly, a communication system is provided, comprising N integrated communication sensing devices as described in the first aspect and any implementation thereof, wherein N ≥ 1 and N is a positive integer.
[0038] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, M of the N integrated communication and sensing devices include phase shifters, where 1 ≤ M ≤ N.
[0039] Fourthly, a communication system is provided, comprising N integrated communication sensing devices as described in the second aspect and any implementation thereof, wherein N ≥ 1 and N is a positive integer.
[0040] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, M of the N integrated communication and sensing devices include phase shifters, where 1 ≤ M ≤ N. Attached Figure Description
[0041] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an integrated communication and sensing site.
[0042] Figure 2 shows the typical shape of an antenna array.
[0043] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the radio frequency and antenna system architecture in a typical 5G FDD MM AAU.
[0044] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the HBF-driven architecture.
[0045] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the integration of communication and sensing in the base station module for full-duplex communication.
[0046] Figure 6 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication system 60 provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0047] Figure 7 illustrates the signal operation mode in the time and frequency dimensions during uplink and downlink spectrum sensing operations provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0048] Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of the spectrum at 2.1 GHz.
[0049] Figure 9 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication system 70 provided in another embodiment of this application.
[0050] Figure 10 is a detailed structural diagram of a communication and sensing integrated device provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0051] Figure 11 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication system 80 provided in another embodiment of this application.
[0052] Figure 12 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication system 90 provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0053] Figure 13 shows the signal operation mode in the time and frequency dimensions when performing uplink and downlink spectrum sensing operations according to an embodiment of this application.
[0054] Figure 14 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication system 100 provided in another embodiment of this application.
[0055] Figure 15 is a detailed structural diagram of a communication and sensing integrated device provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0056] Figure 16 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication system 110 provided in another embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation
[0057] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the concepts and technologies involved in the embodiments will first be briefly introduced.
[0058] 1. Duplex mode of mobile communication
[0059] Mobile communication duplex modes, or the distinction between uplink and downlink, refer to the different methods of distinguishing between them. Uplink is the link from the terminal to the base station, and downlink is the link from the base station to the terminal. These are typically categorized as TDD, FDD, and full duplex (FD). TDD distinguishes between uplink and downlink using different time slots (standard terminology "time slots"), and both can share the same frequency band. FDD operates on different frequency bands, and both can operate simultaneously. FD allows both uplink and downlink to operate on the same frequency simultaneously. It should be understood that relevant information regarding TDD, FDD, and FD can be found in existing technologies and will not be elaborated upon here.
[0060] 2. Perception
[0061] The technical principles of sensing differ somewhat from those of communication. In communication, the transmitting end modulates information onto radio waves and sends it to the receiving end, which then demodulates the signal to obtain the information. Sensing, however, requires the transmitting end to send radio waves in a specific direction. When these radio waves strike a target surface, they are reflected, and the receiving end receives and processes these reflected waves to obtain information such as the target's position, speed, and type.
[0062] Sensing signals refer to signals used to sense or detect targets, or signals used to sense or detect environmental information. For example, a sensing signal is an electromagnetic wave transmitted by a network device to sense environmental information. Sensing signals can also be called radar signals, radar sensing signals, detection signals, radar detection signals, environmental sensing signals, etc., and are not limited to these terms in this application.
[0063] Sensing can generally be divided into two modes: single-site sensing and dual-site sensing. In single-site sensing, the transmitting and receiving ends of the sensing signal are the same device. From the signal flow perspective, the sensing station both transmits and receives the signal reflected from the target surface; therefore, single-site sensing is also called the self-transmitting and self-receiving mode. In dual-site sensing, the transmitting and receiving ends of the sensing signal are two different devices. From the signal flow perspective, after sensing station A transmits the sensing signal, the signal reflected from the target surface is received by sensing station B; therefore, dual-site sensing is also called the A-transmitting and B-receiving mode.
[0064] 3. Integrated communication and sensing
[0065] Communication and sensing integration, also known as communication-sensing fusion, refers to the introduction of "sensing" capabilities on the basis of wireless base stations supporting mobile communication transmission. The characteristic of sensing capabilities is "transmission and reception" (i.e., transmitting excitation signals and using echo signals to detect and sense targets, with the same working mechanism as radar).
[0066] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an integrated communication and sensing station. As shown in Figure 1, the integrated communication and sensing station A transmits sensing signals (e.g., sensing excitation signals) and receives signals reflected from the target surface (e.g., sensing echo signals). Furthermore, the integrated communication and sensing station A can also transmit downlink communication signals to the target and receive uplink communication signals transmitted by the target.
[0067] The site that performs communication sensing can be either a network device or a terminal device.
[0068] The perceived targets can include various tangible objects on the ground that can be sensed, such as mountains, forests, or buildings, as well as vehicles, drones, and terminal equipment. It should be noted that the vehicles, drones, and user equipment (UE) shown in Figure 1 are merely examples; the perceived targets can also include pedestrians, mobile objects such as terminal equipment (including the UE), in addition to vehicles and drones. This application does not impose any limitations on this. It should be understood that the integrated communication and sensing station A can communicate not only with the UE shown in the figure but also with the sensed targets (such as drones and vehicles), and this application does not impose any limitations on this.
[0069] It should also be understood that the sensed target is a target that can be sensed by a network device with sensing capabilities, and that the target can feed back electromagnetic waves to the network device. The sensed target can also be called a detected target, a sensed object, a sensed device, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit it.
[0070] It should be noted that Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of an integrated communication and sensing site in single-site sensing mode. For an integrated communication and sensing site in dual-sense sensing mode, please refer to Figure 1, which will not be elaborated here.
[0071] It should also be noted that the scenario in Figure 1 above is only one example. In one possible scenario, the network side may include multiple integrated communication and sensing sites, for example, the network side may also include three or more integrated communication and sensing sites. It should be understood that the embodiments of this application do not limit this. For information on integrated communication and sensing sites, please refer to the above description.
[0072] 4. 5G / 6G Massive MIMO Active Antenna Unit (AAU) Configuration
[0073] Figure 2 shows a typical antenna array configuration. It can be seen that the driving relationship of the antenna array is: 2 vertical drives and 1 horizontal drive. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the RF and antenna system architecture in a typical 5G FDD MM AAU. As can be seen from Figures 2 and 3, the 5G MM AAU base station module (including TDD and FDD modes) mainly supports communication modes. To minimize the space occupied by the antenna array, a common antenna array configuration with dual polarization (elements placed at ±45 degrees) is typically adopted.
[0074] The multiplexed power amplifier (PA) drives the array antenna to transmit downlink communication signals, while the multiplexed low-noise amplifier (LNA) receives the uplink communication signals transmitted by the array antenna. The duplexer shown in the diagram actually functions as a filter, distinguishing between the uplink and downlink frequencies. Alternatively, it can be understood as a duplexer composed of an uplink frequency band filter and a downlink frequency band filter.
[0075] 5. Digital beamforming (DBF) driving modes and hybrid beamforming (HBF) driving modes
[0076] It should be noted that the structure shown in Figure 3 is a typical DBF driving configuration, while Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the HBF driving configuration. It should be understood that in Figure 4, phase shifters are introduced in both the uplink and downlink.
[0077] 6. Full-duplex communication and sensing integrated node
[0078] If sensing operations are introduced based on the architecture shown in Figures 3 and 4, it is necessary to ensure that the transmitted sensing excitation signal and the sensing echo signal complement each other or block each other. This typically requires the introduction of a "full-duplex" function. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of full-duplex communication and sensing integration implemented in the base station module. As shown in Figure 5, the self-interference of the transmitted sensing excitation signal on the received sensing echo signal can be removed through "cancellation." It should be noted that this method is applicable to both TDD MM AAU and FDD MM AAU.
[0079] This application aims to provide an integrated communication and sensing device that enables FDD MIMO to support sensing functions.
[0080] It should be understood that the integrated communication and sensing device can also be called a communication and sensing fusion device, or simply a device, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.
[0081] The embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0082] Figure 6 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication system 60 provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 6, the communication system 60 includes N integrated communication sensing devices (e.g., integrated communication sensing device #61, integrated communication sensing device #62, ..., integrated communication sensing device #6n shown in Figure 6). It should be understood that the N integrated communication sensing devices in Figure 6 have the same structure.
[0083] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following mainly uses the integrated communication sensing device #61 as an example to describe in detail the specific structure of the integrated communication sensing device included in the communication system 60.
[0084] As shown in Figure 6, the integrated communication and sensing device #61 specifically includes a downlink frequency band filter 611 and an uplink frequency band filter 612.
[0085] The downlink frequency band filter 611 is used to output the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal. The time-domain resources for outputting the sensing excitation signal by the downlink frequency band filter 611 are different from those for outputting the downlink communication signal. That is, although the sensing excitation signal and the downlink communication signal are transmitted on the same spectrum (downlink spectrum), the time-domain resources for transmitting the sensing excitation signal and the downlink communication signal are different. For example, the time-domain resources can be time slots; that is, the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal are transmitted on different time slots.
[0086] It should be noted that the time-domain resources involved in this application can be other time-domain resources besides time slots. It should be understood that the embodiments of this application do not limit this.
[0087] Figure 7 illustrates the signal operation mode in the time and frequency dimensions during sensing operations in the uplink and downlink spectrum according to an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that the communication time slot in the uplink spectrum refers to the time slot (or moment) for receiving the uplink communication signal, the communication time slot in the downlink spectrum refers to the time slot (or moment) for outputting the downlink communication signal, and the sensing time slot refers to the time slot (or moment) for outputting the sensing excitation signal and receiving the sensing echo signal.
[0088] For example, as shown in Figure 7, the explanation is based on a time frame. Assuming that a frame contains 10 time slots, the downlink communication signal is located in the first 8 time slots, and the sensing excitation signal is located in the last 2 time slots. That is to say, the downlink frequency band filter 611 outputs the downlink communication signal in the first 8 time slots and outputs the sensing excitation signal in the last 2 time slots.
[0089] Furthermore, the downlink frequency band filter 611 is also used to receive the sensing echo signal. It should be understood that the sensing echo signal is the echo signal reflected from the sensing excitation signal after it reaches the sensing target. Referring to Figure 7, the sensing echo signal is also located in the last two time slots; that is, the downlink frequency band filter 611 will also receive the sensing echo signal in the last two time slots. It should be noted that the specific time slot allocation needs to be designed according to the specific performance requirements of communication and sensing; this embodiment is only an assumption.
[0090] Referring again to Figures 6 and 7, the uplink frequency band filter 612 is used to receive the communication uplink signal. Furthermore, the uplink frequency band filter 612 receives the communication uplink signal in all time slots. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the communication uplink signal and the sensing echo signal reside in different time domain resources; in other words, the time domain resources for the uplink frequency band filter 612 to receive the communication uplink signal are different from the time domain resources for the downlink frequency band filter 611 to receive the sensing echo signal. For example, the time domain resources can be time slots.
[0091] Alternatively, in one possible implementation, the integrated communication sensing device may further include a first amplifier 613.
[0092] Specifically, the first amplifier 613 is used to receive the sensed echo signal from the downlink frequency band filter 611, and the first amplifier 613 is also used to receive the communication uplink signal from the uplink frequency band filter 612. It should be understood that the function of the first amplifier 613 is to amplify the received sensed echo signal and the communication uplink signal; for example, the first amplifier 613 may be an LNA.
[0093] In this embodiment, the sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal are transmitted on different frequency domain resources. For example, the sensing echo signal is transmitted in the downlink spectrum, and the communication uplink signal is transmitted in the uplink spectrum. Therefore, in this embodiment, the first amplifier 613 needs to support both the uplink and downlink spectrum simultaneously.
[0094] In order for the first amplifier 613 to support the uplink and downlink spectrum of FDD, the first amplifier 613 needs to be broadbanded.
[0095] Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of the 2.1 GHz spectrum. As shown in Figure 8, taking the first amplifier 613 as an LNA for illustration, assuming a 2.1 GHz spectrum, without sensing operation, the LNA only needs to support 1920–1965 MHz, that is, the LNA only needs to support the uplink spectrum. However, in this application, the LNA not only receives the communication uplink signal but also the sensing echo signal transmitted from the downlink spectrum. Therefore, the LNA needs to support 1920–2155 MHz, and at this time, broadband processing of the LNA is required.
[0096] It should be noted that although the sensed echo signal and the communication uplink signal pass through the same amplifier (i.e., the first amplifier 613), the sensed echo signal and the communication uplink signal reside in different time-domain resources. For example, the time-domain resource can be a time slot.
[0097] Alternatively, in one possible implementation, the communication sensing integrated device further includes a second amplifier 614.
[0098] Specifically, the second amplifier 614 is used to output sensing excitation signals and communication downlink signals to the downlink frequency band filter 611, and the time domain resources of the sensing excitation signals and communication downlink signals output by the second amplifier 614 are different. For example, the time domain resources can be time slots, that is, the sensing excitation signals and communication downlink signals are output on different time slots.
[0099] It should be understood that the function of the second amplifier 614 is to amplify the power of the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal. For example, the second amplifier 614 can be a PA.
[0100] Since both the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal are transmitted on the downlink spectrum, in this case, the second amplifier 614 only needs to support the downlink spectrum, as shown in Figure 8, that is, support 2110~2155MHz, and there is no need to perform broadband processing on the second amplifier 614.
[0101] It should be understood that the 2.1 GHz spectrum mentioned above is merely an example, and the embodiments of this application do not limit it.
[0102] According to the above technical solution, sensing operations are performed on the downlink spectrum. The PA does not need to be widened and can use power similar to that used to transmit communication signals to transmit sensing excitation signals, which can improve product performance while reducing production costs.
[0103] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the integrated communication sensing device further includes a first switch. Figure 9 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication system 70 provided in another embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 9, the integrated communication sensing device in this communication system may further include a first switch 615.
[0104] Specifically, the downlink frequency band filter 611 can output the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal respectively through the first switch 615. For example, the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal (wherein the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal are located in different time slots) sent by the second amplifier 614 pass through the downlink frequency band filter 611 and are then converted into the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal respectively through the first switch 615.
[0105] It should be noted that the downlink frequency band filter 611 outputs the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal through the first switch 615, which can be done in the following ways.
[0106] Method 1: During the sensing time slot (or sensing moment), the first switch 615 switches to the first terminal (L1), and the downlink frequency band filter 611 outputs a sensing excitation signal through the first terminal to drive the sensing excitation array of the antenna array, which then transmits the sensing excitation signal. During the communication time slot (or communication moment), the first switch 615 switches to the second terminal (L2), and the downlink frequency band filter 611 outputs a communication downlink signal to drive the sensing echo reception and communication mode resonant surface of the antenna array (hereinafter referred to as the sensing communication resonant surface), which then transmits the communication downlink signal.
[0107] In this scenario, the first switch 615 can be considered as switching between sensing mode and communication mode to output sensing excitation signal and communication downlink signal respectively. It should be understood that whether the downlink frequency band filter 611 outputs a sensing excitation signal or a communication downlink signal through the first switch 615 is actually a selection of time slots.
[0108] In the second method, the first switch 615 includes a first terminal (L1) and a second terminal (L2). The first terminal (L1) is used to connect to the sensing excitation array, and the second terminal (L2) is used to connect to the sensing communication resonant surface. For example, during a sensing time slot (or sensing moment), the sensing excitation signal, after passing through the downlink frequency band filter 611, is output as a sensing excitation signal through the first terminal to drive the sensing excitation array, which then transmits the sensing excitation signal. During a communication time slot (or communication moment), the sensing excitation signal, after passing through the downlink frequency band filter 611, is output as a communication downlink signal through the second terminal to drive the sensing communication resonant surface, which then transmits the communication downlink signal.
[0109] In this case, it can be assumed that the first switch 615 does not need to switch between the first terminal (L1) and the second terminal (L2), but only outputs different signals to different antenna arrays through the first terminal (L1) and the second terminal (L2) at different time slots (or moments).
[0110] It is important to note that the first switch 615 mentioned above needs to meet RF performance requirements such as high isolation, low insertion loss, and fast switching. For example, high isolation requires that the isolation level meets the basic isolation requirements for transmission and reception (>25dB), low insertion loss requires that the insertion loss be less than 0.2dB, and fast switching requires that it be in the hundreds of nanoseconds or faster.
[0111] It should be understood that the first switch 615 may also be called a sensing mode selection switch, a selection switch, or a sensing selection switch, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.
[0112] It should also be understood that the first switch 615 can be a single-pole single-throw switch, or a radio frequency switch, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit it in this way.
[0113] Referring again to Figure 9, optionally, in one possible implementation, the integrated communication sensing device further includes a second switch. For example, the integrated communication sensing device #61 also includes a second switch 616.
[0114] Specifically, the downlink frequency band filter 611 is used to receive the sensing echo signal through the second switch 616, and the uplink filter is used to receive the communication uplink signal through the second switch 616. The sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal are transmitted on different frequency domain resources, and they also reside on different time-frequency resources. For example, the time-frequency resource can be a time slot.
[0115] The second switch 616 switches between communication mode and sensing mode. For example, during a sensing time slot (or sensing moment), the second switch 616 switches to the downlink frequency band filter 611 so that the downlink frequency band filter 611 receives the sensing echo signal through the second switch 616. Subsequently, the received sensing echo signal passes through the second amplifier 614 and enters the signal processing unit (not shown in the figure) for signal processing. During a communication time slot (or communication moment), the second switch 616 switches to the uplink frequency band filter 612 so that the uplink frequency band filter 612 receives the communication uplink signal through the second switch 616. Subsequently, the received communication uplink signal passes through the second amplifier 614 and enters the signal processing unit (not shown in the figure) for signal processing. It should be understood that specific details regarding signal processing can be found in the prior art, and will not be elaborated upon in this application.
[0116] It should be noted that the uplink frequency band filter 612 receives the communication uplink signal through the second switch 616, or the downlink frequency band filter 611 receives the sensing echo signal through the second switch 616. In fact, the second switch 616 performs the time slot selection.
[0117] It should be understood that the second switch 616 can be a logic switch, or it can be a radio frequency switch or a single-pole single-throw switch, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit it in this way.
[0118] Referring again to Figures 6 and 9, optionally, in one possible implementation, the integrated communication sensing device further includes a first antenna array S1 and a second antenna array S2.
[0119] Specifically, the first antenna array S1 is used to receive a sensing excitation signal from the downlink frequency band filter 611, wherein the sensing excitation signal is used to drive the first antenna array S1 to transmit the sensing excitation signal. It should be noted that the first antenna array S1 can be the sensing excitation array described above. It should be understood that the sensing excitation array can also be called a sensing excitation signal transmitting array, a sensing excitation transmitting array, etc., and this application does not impose any limitations on this.
[0120] Optionally, the first antenna array S1 can transmit at full power when transmitting the sensing excitation signal. In this case, the coverage area of the first antenna array S1 can be expanded.
[0121] Alternatively, the first antenna array S1 may include fewer elements. In this case, the first antenna array S1 can transmit a relatively wide beam, thereby expanding the coverage area.
[0122] The second antenna array S2 is used to receive downlink communication signals from the downlink frequency band filter 611. These downlink communication signals drive the second antenna array S2, which then transmits the downlink communication signals. It should be noted that the second antenna array S2 can be the sensing echo reception and communication mode resonant surface described above. It should be understood that the sensing echo reception and communication mode resonant surface can also be called a sensing communication resonant surface, a resonant surface, etc., and this application does not impose any limitations on this.
[0123] Furthermore, the second linear array S2 is also used to receive the sensing echo signal reflected by the sensing target, and output the sensing echo signal to the downlink frequency band filter 611 through the second switch 616. In addition, the second linear array S2 is also used to receive the communication uplink signal, and output the communication uplink signal to the uplink frequency band filter 612 through the second switch 616.
[0124] In this embodiment, an additional receiving circuit channel connecting the second antenna array S2 to the downlink frequency band filter 611 and then to the first amplifier 613 is added, which can better receive the sensed echo signal.
[0125] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the first antenna array S1 and the second antenna array S2 are isolated from each other. It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the first antenna array S1 and the second antenna array S2 adopt a separate architecture.
[0126] For example, an isolation region is provided between the first antenna array S1 and the second antenna array S2 to isolate the sensing excitation signal and the sensing echo signal.
[0127] Optionally, the isolation area can also employ further methods to enhance isolation. For example, the isolation area can be filled with microwave absorbing material to improve isolation; or advanced metamaterials can be used in the isolation area to improve isolation. It should be understood that other methods can also be used to improve isolation, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.
[0128] For example, the first antenna array S1 and the second antenna array S2 can also be spatially isolated from each other. Spatial isolation can be understood as the distance between the first antenna array S1 and the second antenna array S2 being greater than a certain value.
[0129] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, the size of the first antenna array S1, the size of the second antenna array S2, and the size of the isolation region are mutually constrained. The following detailed explanation uses the example of the first antenna array S1 as the sensing excitation array and the second antenna array S2 as the inductive resonant surface.
[0130] Theoretically, the larger the sensing excitation array, the better. However, commercially available antenna arrays are subject to strict size regulations. For example, there are requirements for the total frontal area and the inter-electrode spacing (typically half a wavelength) at specific frequencies. Therefore, the size of the sensing excitation array, the size of the co-sensing array, and the size of the isolation area between them are mutually restrictive. Thus, a comprehensive approach is needed to select an optimal size that satisfies the sensing performance requirements, ensures adequate isolation without compromising performance, and keeps the antenna array within commercial size limits.
[0131] Figure 10 is a detailed structural diagram of a communication sensing integrated device provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 10, after comprehensive consideration, if more than two rows of elements are used in the sensing excitation array and the sensing resonance array, considering the vertical dimension element spacing (e.g., 120mm), the total vertical dimension height is 1600-120x2-120x8=400mm, and the isolation degree is difficult to guarantee due to the small isolation interval, it is concluded that the elements of the sensing excitation array are 2 rows and 8 columns, or it can be 1 row and 8 columns. The specific design can be based on the sensing coverage link budget requirements. The sensing resonance array is still 8 rows and 8 columns, and all antenna elements are cross-polarized.
[0132] It should be noted that the above description assumes a spectrum of 2.1 GHz. This means the wavelength of the 2.1 GHz spectrum is 143 mm, and the vertical dimension interphase spacing (e.g., 120 mm) mentioned above is approximately 0.83 wavelengths. It should also be understood that the 2.1 GHz spectrum is merely an example, and correspondingly, the specific values of the parameters mentioned above (vertical dimension interphase spacing, total vertical dimension height, etc.) are also only examples.
[0133] As shown in Figure 10, the total height of the isolation region can be approximately 400 mm, and the isolation region can be filled with isolation metamaterials (or other isolation methods) to improve the isolation between the sensing excitation surface and the synesthetic resonant surface, thereby achieving isolation between the sensing excitation signal and the sensing echo signal. In the structure shown in Figure 10, the isolation level is required to be at least greater than 65 dB.
[0134] It should be understood that the isolation metamaterial can be a material with high isolation performance, and there are other means to improve the isolation degree. The embodiments of this application do not limit this.
[0135] For example, referring to Figures 2 and 10, it can be seen that in the embodiments of this application, the TRX (antenna array) driving relationship is horizontal 1-to-1 (16 TRX in total), and in the vertical dimension, the sensing excitation array is 2-to-2 (1-to-1 is also possible, which can be designed based on the coverage link budget), and the sensing co-array is vertical 2-to-2.
[0136] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the integrated communication and sensing device further includes a phase shifter. Figure 11 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication system 80 provided in another embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 11, the integrated communication and sensing device #61 further includes a phase shifter 617.
[0137] Specifically, a phase shifter 617 is installed in the receiving channel of the second antenna array S2. This phase shifter 617 is used to receive the sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal from the first amplifier 613. It should be understood that the phase shifter 617, installed in the receiving channel of the second antenna array S2, enables the vertical scanning dimension or vertical scanning range of the second antenna array S2 in sensing mode to be expanded. That is to say, under the action of the phase shifter 617, the uplink and downlink in the vertical dimension are an "asymmetric" design. The "asymmetric" design can be understood as either installing the phase shifter 617 only in the uplink or including more receiving channels in the uplink.
[0138] In the embodiments of this application, this asymmetric design improves or optimizes the uplink receiving performance in the communication mode, and is also an enhancement to the communication mode.
[0139] It should be noted that not all integrated communication and sensing devices include the phase shifter 617. That is to say, among N integrated communication and sensing devices, M integrated communication and sensing devices may include the phase shifter 617 mentioned above, where N≥1, and N is a positive integer, 1≤M≤N.
[0140] In one scenario, M = 1, meaning that only one of the N integrated communication sensing devices includes a phase shifter 617. For example, as shown in Figure 11, integrated communication sensing device #61 includes a phase shifter 617.
[0141] In another scenario, M takes a value between 1 and N, meaning that M out of N integrated communication sensing devices include the phase shifter 617, and (NM) integrated communication sensing devices do not include the phase shifter 617. For example, when M = 2, one possible scenario is that integrated communication sensing devices #61 and #62 include the phase shifter 617.
[0142] In another scenario, M = N, meaning that all of the N integrated communication sensing devices include a phase shifter 617. For example, integrated communication sensing devices #61 to #6n include a phase shifter 617.
[0143] In another case, M=0, that is, none of the N integrated communication sensing devices include the phase shifter 617 mentioned above.
[0144] It should be noted that Figure 11 is only one possible example, and the embodiments of this application do not limit it.
[0145] It should also be noted that the phase shifter 617 can be set not only in the uplink but also in the downlink. It should be understood that the embodiments of this application do not limit this.
[0146] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the second linear array S2 further includes a receiving channel for receiving sensing echo signals and communication uplink signals. In this embodiment, the second linear array S2 includes receiving channels for receiving sensing echo signals and communication uplink signals, which can be understood as the second linear array S2 including N times the number of receiving channels for receiving sensing echo signals and communication uplink signals, where N≥2.
[0147] Referring again to Figure 11, taking the integrated communication sensing device #6n, which includes receiving channels for receiving sensing echo signals and communication uplink signals, as an example, assuming the original integrated communication sensing device #6n has 32 receiving channels (for receiving sensing echo signals and communication uplink signals), to expand the vertical scanning dimension or vertical scanning range of the second antenna array S2 during sensing, the number of receiving channels of the integrated communication sensing device #6n is increased to 64 (see the dotted line in the figure). It should be understood that the above is only an example, and this application does not impose any limitations on it.
[0148] Alternatively, in one possible implementation, to ensure coverage of the sensing excitation signal and increase the scanning range of the echo signal in the vertical dimension of the array, the first antenna array S1 may use fewer array elements in its vertical dimension. In this case, the first antenna array S1 can transmit a wider beam signal, coupled with greater transmission power, thereby ensuring coverage space.
[0149] According to the above technical solution, FDD MIMO can support sensing functions, and further, it can correctly use the FDD spectrum and support rapid switching between sensing mode and communication mode.
[0150] Figure 12 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication system 90 provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 12, the communication system 90 includes N integrated communication sensing devices (e.g., integrated communication sensing device #91, integrated communication sensing device #92, ..., integrated communication sensing device #9n shown in Figure 12). It should be understood that the N integrated communication sensing devices included in the communication system 90 have the same structure.
[0151] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following mainly uses the integrated communication sensing device #91 as an example to describe in detail the specific structure of the integrated communication sensing device in the communication system 90.
[0152] As shown in Figure 12, the integrated communication and sensing device #91 specifically includes a downlink frequency band filter 911 and an uplink frequency band filter 912.
[0153] Among them, the downlink frequency band filter 911 is used to output the communication downlink signal, and the uplink frequency band filter 912 is used to output the sensing excitation signal. Furthermore, the time domain resources of the communication downlink signal output by the downlink frequency band filter 911 and the sensing excitation signal output by the uplink frequency band filter 912 are different. For example, the time frequency resource can be a time slot, that is, the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal are sent on different time slots.
[0154] The uplink frequency band filter 912 is also used to receive sensing echo signals and communication uplink signals. It should be noted that the time domain resources for receiving sensing echo signals by the uplink frequency band filter 912 are different from the time domain resources for receiving communication uplink signals. The sensing echo signal is the echo signal reflected by the sensing excitation signal after it is detected by the target.
[0155] It should be noted that the time-domain resources involved in this application can be other time-domain resources besides time slots. It should be understood that the embodiments of this application do not limit this.
[0156] Figure 13 illustrates the signal operation mode in the time and frequency dimensions during sensing operations in the uplink and downlink spectrum according to an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that the communication time slot in the uplink spectrum refers to the time slot (or moment) for receiving the uplink communication signal, the sensing time slot refers to the time slot (or moment) for outputting the sensing excitation signal and receiving the sensing echo signal, and the communication time slot in the downlink spectrum refers to the time slot (or moment) for outputting the downlink communication signal.
[0157] For example, as shown in Figure 13, using time as a frame for illustration, assuming one frame contains 10 time slots, the communication uplink signal is located in the first 8 time slots, and the sensing echo signal is located in the last 2 time slots. That is to say, the uplink frequency band filter 912 receives the communication uplink signal in the first 8 time slots and receives the sensing echo signal in the last 2 time slots. It should be noted that the specific division of time slots needs to be designed according to the specific performance requirements of communication and sensing; this embodiment is only an assumption.
[0158] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the communication downlink signal and the sensing excitation signal reside in different time-domain resources. That is, the time-domain resources for the communication downlink signal output by the downlink frequency band filter 911 and the sensing excitation signal output by the uplink frequency band filter 912 are different. For example, the time-domain resource can be a time slot.
[0159] Alternatively, in one possible implementation, the integrated communication sensing device further includes a first amplifier 913.
[0160] Specifically, the first amplifier 913 is used to receive the sensed echo signal and the communication uplink signal from the uplink band filter 912. It should be understood that the function of the first amplifier 913 is to amplify the received sensed echo signal and the communication uplink signal. For example, the first amplifier 913 may be a low-noise amplifier (LNA).
[0161] Since the sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal are transmitted on the same frequency domain resources in this embodiment, for example, both the sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal are transmitted in the uplink spectrum, the first amplifier 913 only supports the uplink spectrum in this embodiment. Referring to FIG8, the first amplifier 913 only supports 1920~1965MHz, and there is no need to perform broadband processing on the first amplifier 913.
[0162] Alternatively, in one possible implementation, the communication sensing integrated device further includes a second amplifier 914.
[0163] Specifically, the second amplifier 914 is used to output a communication downlink signal to the downlink frequency band filter 911, and the second amplifier 914 is also used to output a sensing excitation signal to the uplink frequency band filter 912. It should be understood that the function of the second amplifier 914 is to amplify the power of the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal. For example, the second amplifier 914 can be a PA.
[0164] In this embodiment, the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal are transmitted on different frequency domain resources; for example, the sensing excitation signal is transmitted in the uplink spectrum, and the communication downlink signal is transmitted in the downlink spectrum. Therefore, in this embodiment, the second amplifier 914 needs to support both the uplink and downlink spectrum simultaneously.
[0165] To enable the second amplifier 914 to support both the uplink and downlink spectrum of FDD, it is necessary to perform broadband processing on the second amplifier 914.
[0166] Referring again to Figure 8, using the second amplifier 914 as the PA for illustration, assuming a 2.1 GHz spectrum, without sensing operation, the PA only needs to support 2110–2155 MHz, that is, the PA only needs to support the downlink spectrum. However, in this application, the PA not only transmits communication downlink signals in the downlink spectrum but also transmits sensing excitation signals in the uplink spectrum. Therefore, the PA needs to support 1920–2155 MHz, requiring broadband processing of the PA.
[0167] It should be noted that although the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal pass through the same amplifier (i.e., the second amplifier 914), it is obvious that the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal are located in different frequency domain resources.
[0168] It should also be noted that the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal are located on different time-frequency resources. That is to say, the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal are transmitted on different time-domain resources. For example, the time-domain resource can be a time slot.
[0169] It should be understood that the 2.1 GHz spectrum mentioned above is merely an example, and the embodiments of this application do not limit it.
[0170] According to the above technical solution, sensing operations are performed on the uplink spectrum, and the LNA does not need to be broadbanded, which can improve product performance while reducing production costs.
[0171] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the integrated communication sensing device further includes a second switch 915. Figure 14 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication system 100 provided in another embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 14, the integrated communication sensing device #91 in the communication system 100 may also include a second switch 915.
[0172] Specifically, the uplink frequency band filter 912 is used to receive the sensing echo signal through the second switch 915, and the uplink frequency band filter 912 is also used to receive the communication uplink signal through the second switch 915, wherein the sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal are transmitted on different time domain resources, for example, the time domain resource may be a time slot.
[0173] The second switch 915 switches between communication mode and sensing mode. For example, during a sensing time slot (or sensing moment), the second switch 915 switches the connection between the uplink frequency band filter 912 and the receiving channel of the sensing echo signal, so that the uplink frequency band filter 912 receives the sensing echo signal through the second switch 915. Subsequently, the received sensing echo signal passes through the second amplifier 914 and enters the signal processing unit (not shown in the figure) for signal processing. During a communication time slot (or communication moment), the second switch 915 switches the connection between the uplink frequency band filter 912 and the receiving channel of the communication uplink signal, so that the uplink frequency band filter 912 receives the communication uplink signal through the second switch 915. Subsequently, the received communication uplink signal passes through the second amplifier 914 and enters the signal processing unit (not shown in the figure) for signal processing. It should be understood that specific details regarding signal processing can be found in the prior art, and will not be elaborated upon in this application.
[0174] It should be noted that whether the uplink frequency band filter 912 receives the communication uplink signal through the second switch 915 or receives the sensing echo signal through the second switch 915, it is actually the time slot selection performed by the second switch 915.
[0175] It should be understood that the second switch 915 can be a logic switch, or it can be a radio frequency switch or a single-pole single-throw switch, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not limit it in this way.
[0176] According to the above technical solution, using uplink spectrum for sensing operations eliminates the need for a first switch, reducing complexity and minimizing the impact on downlink performance.
[0177] Referring again to Figures 12 and 14, optionally, in one possible implementation, the integrated communication sensing device further includes a first antenna array S1 and a second antenna array S2.
[0178] Specifically, the first antenna array S1 is used to receive a sensing excitation signal from the uplink frequency band filter 912, wherein the sensing excitation signal is used to drive the first antenna array S1, and the first antenna array S1 transmits the sensing excitation signal. It should be noted that the first antenna array S1 can be the sensing excitation array described above. It should be understood that the sensing excitation array can also be called a sensing excitation signal transmitting array, a sensing excitation transmitting array, etc., and this application does not impose any limitations on this.
[0179] Optionally, the first antenna array S1 can transmit at full power when transmitting the sensing excitation signal. In this case, the coverage area of the first antenna array S1 can be expanded.
[0180] Alternatively, the first antenna array S1 may include fewer elements. In this case, the first antenna array S1 can transmit a relatively wide beam, thereby expanding the coverage area.
[0181] The second antenna array S2 is used to receive downlink communication signals from the downlink frequency band filter 911. These downlink communication signals drive the second antenna array S2, which then transmits the downlink communication signals. It should be noted that the second antenna array S2 can be the sensing echo reception and communication mode resonant surface described above. It should be understood that the sensing echo reception and communication mode resonant surface can also be called a sensing communication resonant surface, a resonant surface, etc., and this application does not impose any limitations on this.
[0182] Furthermore, the second linear array S2 is also used to receive the sensing echo signal reflected by the sensing target and output the sensing echo signal to the uplink frequency band filter 912 through the second switch 915. In addition, the second linear array S2 is also used to receive the communication uplink signal and output the communication uplink signal to the uplink frequency band filter 912 through the second switch 915.
[0183] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the first antenna array S1 and the second antenna array S2 are isolated from each other. It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the first antenna array S1 and the second antenna array S2 adopt a separate architecture.
[0184] For example, an isolation region is provided between the first antenna array S1 and the second antenna array S2 to isolate the sensing excitation signal and the sensing echo signal.
[0185] Optionally, the isolation area can also employ further methods to enhance isolation. For example, the isolation area can be filled with microwave absorbing material to improve isolation; or advanced metamaterials can be used in the isolation area to improve isolation. It should be understood that other methods can also be used to improve isolation, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.
[0186] For example, the first antenna array S1 and the second antenna array S2 can also be spatially isolated from each other. Spatial isolation can be understood as the distance between the first antenna array S1 and the second antenna array S2 being greater than a certain value.
[0187] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, the size of the first antenna array S1, the size of the second antenna array S2, and the size of the isolation area are mutually constrained. For a description of the mutual constraints between the size of the first antenna array S1, the size of the second antenna array S2, and the size of the isolation area, please refer to the above description, which will not be repeated here.
[0188] Figure 15 is a detailed structural diagram of a communication sensing integrated device provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 15, after comprehensive consideration, if more than two rows of elements are used in the sensing excitation array and the sensing resonance array, considering the vertical dimension element spacing (e.g., 120mm), the total vertical dimension height is 1600-120x2-120x8=400mm, and the isolation degree is difficult to guarantee due to the small isolation interval, it is concluded that the elements of the sensing excitation array are 2 rows and 8 columns, or it can be 1 row and 8 columns. The specific design can be based on the sensing coverage link budget requirements. The sensing resonance array is still 8 rows and 8 columns, and all antenna elements are cross-polarized.
[0189] It should be noted that the above description assumes a spectrum of 2.1 GHz. This means the wavelength of the 2.1 GHz spectrum is 143 mm, and the vertical dimension interphase spacing (e.g., 120 mm) mentioned above is approximately 0.83 wavelengths. It should also be understood that the 2.1 GHz spectrum is merely an example, and correspondingly, the specific values of the parameters mentioned above (vertical dimension interphase spacing, total vertical dimension height, etc.) are also only examples.
[0190] As shown in Figure 15, the total height of the isolation region can be approximately 400 mm, and the isolation region can be filled with isolation metamaterials to improve the isolation between the sensing excitation surface and the synesthetic resonant surface, thereby achieving isolation between the sensing excitation signal and the sensing echo signal. In the structure shown in Figure 15, the isolation requirement is at least greater than 65 dB.
[0191] It should be understood that the isolation metamaterial can be a material with high isolation performance, or other means to improve the isolation degree, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.
[0192] For example, referring to Figures 2 and 10, it can be seen that in the embodiments of this application, the TRX driving relationship is horizontal 1-drive 1 (for 16 TRX), and in the vertical dimension, the sensing excitation array is 2-drive 2 (1-drive is also possible, which can be designed based on the coverage link budget), and the sensory co-array is vertical 2-drive.
[0193] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the integrated communication and sensing device further includes a phase shifter. Figure 16 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication system 110 provided in another embodiment of this application. For example, the integrated communication and sensing device #91 also includes a phase shifter 916.
[0194] As shown in Figure 16, a phase shifter 916 is installed in the receiving channel of the second antenna array S2. This phase shifter 916 is used to receive the sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal from the first amplifier 913. It should be understood that the phase shifter 916, installed in the receiving channel of the second antenna array S2, enables the vertical scanning dimension or vertical scanning range of the second antenna array S2 in sensing mode to be expanded. That is to say, under the action of the phase shifter 916, the uplink and downlink in the vertical dimension are an "asymmetric" design. The "asymmetric" design can be understood as either installing the phase shifter 916 only in the uplink or including more receiving channels in the uplink.
[0195] In the embodiments of this application, this asymmetric design improves or optimizes the uplink receiving performance in the communication mode, and is also an enhancement to the communication mode.
[0196] It should be noted that not all integrated communication and sensing devices include the phase shifter 916. That is to say, among N integrated communication and sensing devices, M integrated communication and sensing devices may include the phase shifter 916 mentioned above, where N≥1, and N is a positive integer, 1≤M≤N.
[0197] In one case, M=1, that is, only one of the N integrated communication and sensing devices includes a phase shifter 916, as shown in Figure 12, where the integrated communication and sensing device #n includes a phase shifter 916.
[0198] In another case, M takes a value between 1 and N, that is, M of the N integrated communication sensing devices include the phase shifter 916, and (NM) integrated communication sensing devices do not include the phase shifter 916.
[0199] In another case, M = N, that is, all of the N integrated communication and sensing devices include a phase shifter 916.
[0200] In another case, M=0, that is, none of the N integrated communication sensing devices include the phase shifter 916 mentioned above.
[0201] It should be noted that the phase shifter 916 can be set not only in the uplink but also in the downlink. It should be understood that the embodiments of this application do not limit this.
[0202] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the second linear array S2 further includes a receiving channel for receiving sensing echo signals and communication uplink signals. In this embodiment, the second linear array S2 includes receiving channels for receiving sensing echo signals and communication uplink signals, which can be understood as the second linear array S2 including N times the number of receiving channels for receiving sensing echo signals and communication uplink signals, where N≥2.
[0203] [Correction based on Rule 91, March 2025] Continuing with Figure 16, taking the integrated communication sensing device # including receiving channels for receiving sensing echo signals and communication uplink signals as an example, assuming the original integrated communication sensing device # has 32 receiving channels (for receiving sensing echo signals and communication uplink signals), to expand the vertical scanning dimension or vertical scanning range of the second antenna array S2 during sensing, the number of receiving channels of the integrated communication sensing device # is increased to 64 (N=2). It should be understood that the above is merely an example, and this application does not impose any limitations on it.
[0204] Alternatively, in one possible implementation, to ensure coverage of the sensing excitation signal and increase the scanning range of the echo signal in the vertical dimension of the array, the first antenna array S1 may use fewer array elements in its vertical dimension. In this case, the first antenna array S1 can transmit a wider beam signal, coupled with greater transmission power, thereby ensuring coverage space.
[0205] According to the above technical solution, FDD MIMO can support sensing functions, and further, it can correctly use the FDD spectrum and support rapid switching between sensing mode and communication mode.
[0206] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. An integrated communication and sensing device, characterized in that, include: Downlink band filter, uplink band filter The downlink frequency band filter is used to output the sensing excitation signal; The downlink frequency band filter is also used to output communication downlink signals; The downlink frequency band filter is also used to receive the sensing echo signal after the sensing excitation signal senses the target, and send the sensing echo signal to the first amplifier; The uplink frequency band filter is used to receive communication uplink signals; The time-domain resources of the downlink communication signal output by the downlink frequency band filter are different from the time-domain resources of the sensing excitation signal output by the downlink frequency band filter.
2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the first amplifier and the second amplifier. The second amplifier is used to output the sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal to the downlink frequency band filter. The time domain resources of the sensing excitation signal output by the second amplifier and the time domain resources of the communication downlink signal output by the second amplifier are different. The first amplifier is used to receive the sensed echo signal from the downlink frequency band filter; The first amplifier is also used to receive the communication uplink signal from the uplink band filter.
3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It also includes the first switch, The downlink frequency band filter is used to output the sensing excitation signal through the first switch; The downlink frequency band filter is also used to output the communication downlink signal through the first switch.
4. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, It also includes a second switch, The downlink frequency band filter is also used to receive the sensed echo signal through the second switch; The uplink frequency band filter is also used to receive the communication uplink signal through the second switch.
5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, It also includes the first antenna array and the second antenna array. The first antenna array is used to receive and transmit the sensing excitation signal from the downlink frequency band filter; The second antenna array is used to receive and transmit the downlink communication signal from the downlink frequency band filter; The second antenna array is also used to receive and output the sensed echo signal to the uplink band filter; The second antenna array is also used to receive and output the communication uplink signal to the uplink band filter.
6. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first antenna array and the second antenna array are isolated from each other.
7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal are transmitted on different frequency domain resources.
8. The device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, The second antenna array includes a receiving channel for receiving the sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal.
9. [Correction 14.03.2025 according to Rule 91] The device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that, It also includes phase shifters, The phase shifter is used to receive the sensed echo signal and the communication uplink signal from the first amplifier.
10. The device according to any one of claims 2 to 9, characterized in that, The first amplifier is a power amplifier (PA), and the second amplifier is a low-noise amplifier (LNA).
11. An integrated communication and sensing device, characterized in that, include: Downlink band filter, uplink band filter The downlink frequency band filter is used to output the downlink communication signal; The uplink frequency band filter is used to output the sensing excitation signal; The uplink frequency band filter is also used to receive the sensing echo signal after the sensing excitation signal senses the target, and send the sensing echo signal to the first amplifier; The uplink frequency band filter is also used to receive communication uplink signals; The time-domain resources of the uplink frequency band filter for receiving the sensed echo signal are different from the time-domain resources of the uplink frequency band filter for receiving the communication uplink signal.
12. The device according to claim 11, characterized in that, It also includes the first amplifier and the second amplifier. The second amplifier is used to output the communication downlink signal to the downlink frequency band filter; The second amplifier is also used to output the sensing excitation signal to the uplink frequency band filter; The first amplifier is used to receive the sensed echo signal and the communication uplink signal from the uplink band filter.
13. The device according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, It also includes a second switch, The uplink frequency band filter is also used to receive the sensed echo signal through the second switch; The uplink frequency band filter is also used to receive the communication uplink signal through the second switch.
14. The device according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, It also includes the first antenna array and the second antenna array. The first antenna array is used to receive and transmit the sensing excitation signal from the uplink frequency band filter; The second antenna array is used to receive and transmit downlink communication signals from the downlink frequency band filter; The second antenna array is also used to receive and output the sensed echo signal to the uplink band filter; The second antenna array is also used to receive and output the communication uplink signal to the uplink band filter.
15. The device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The first antenna array and the second antenna array are isolated from each other.
16. The device according to any one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that, The sensing excitation signal and the communication downlink signal are transmitted on different frequency domain resources.
17. The device according to any one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that, The second antenna array includes a receiving channel for receiving the sensing echo signal and the communication uplink signal.
18. The device according to any one of claims 12 to 17, characterized in that, It also includes phase shifters, The phase shifter is used to receive the sensed echo signal and the communication uplink signal from the first amplifier.
19. The device according to any one of claims 12 to 18, characterized in that, The first amplifier is a power amplifier (PA), and the second amplifier is a low-noise amplifier (LNA).
20. A communication system comprising N communication sensing integrated devices as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein N ≥ 1 and N is a positive integer.
21. The communication system according to claim 20, characterized in that, Of the N integrated communication and sensing devices, M include phase shifters, where 1 ≤ M ≤ N.
22. A communication system comprising N communication sensing integrated devices as described in any one of claims 11 to 19, wherein N ≥ 1 and N is a positive integer.
23. The communication system according to claim 22, characterized in that, Of the N integrated communication and sensing devices, M include phase shifters, where 1 ≤ M ≤ N.