Antenna Calibration in Traffic-Signal Resource Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Massive MIMO antennas require continuous calibration due to phase and amplitude differences between radio paths, which are temperature-dependent and time-varying, necessitating efficient calibration methods that do not disrupt traffic signals.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for antenna calibration that inserts a calibration signal into a physical resource block allocated for a traffic signal, allowing simultaneous transmission with the traffic signal, using a calibration receiver to distinguish and calibrate radio frequency paths, and employing a successive interference cancellation receiver to minimize interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If antenna calibration is performed using separate calibration signals, then calibration accuracy is improved, but transmission time and resource utilization deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines calibration signals with traffic signals by multiplexing them in the time domain. The calibration signal is transmitted during the guard period that would otherwise be unused, while traffic signals are transmitted during their allocated time slots. This merging allows both calibration and traffic transmission to occur simultaneously without interfering with each other, resolving the contradiction between calibration accuracy and transmission time.
Solution Approach 2:
The guard period, which was originally a dedicated time slot for calibration only, is made universal by allowing it to serve dual purposes: it can carry calibration signals when needed, and can also be used for traffic transmission when calibration is not required. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated calibration time slots, thereby reducing overall transmission time while maintaining calibration accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If calibration signals are transmitted during guard period, then calibration can be performed, but resource utilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts the usage of guard periods based on real-time needs. When calibration is required, the guard period is configured to transmit calibration signals. When calibration is not needed, the same guard period is repurposed to transmit traffic signals. This dynamic reconfiguration maximizes resource utilization while ensuring calibration capability is available when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of time allocation by allowing the guard period to serve multiple functions. Instead of fixed dedicated calibration time, the system adjusts the temporal parameters to accommodate both calibration and traffic transmission, thereby improving overall resource utilization efficiency.
3Stability of the object's composition
If calibration is performed continuously, then phase and amplitude convergence is maintained, but system complexity and overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous calibration, the system employs periodic calibration actions during guard periods. The calibration is performed at regular intervals when the guard period is available, which is sufficient to maintain phase and amplitude convergence given the temperature-dependent and time-varying characteristics of radio paths. This periodic approach reduces system complexity and overhead while maintaining the required stability.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method and an apparatus for antenna calibration. A method performed by an apparatus for antenna calibration may comprise: inserting a calibration signal to a physical resource block allocated for a traffic signal; and distinguishing the calibration signal from the traffic signal at a calibration receiver for antenna calibration. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, antenna calibration signals and traffic signals may be transmitted simultaneously.