Antenna Reflection Coefficient Measurement Across Narrowband RF Segments

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in accurately measuring the reflection coefficient of antennas, which is crucial for maintaining communication quality, due to the high cost and complexity of components required for broadband channel operations.

Innovation Solution

A method and device utilizing a signal processing system with a digital-to-analog converter, analog-to-digital converter, digital signal processor, and controller to measure the reflection coefficient of antennas by processing RF feedback signals, focusing on a target frequency band to reduce costs and improve measurement accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If broadband channel components are used to measure reflection coefficient, then measurement coverage is improved, but system cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement coverageVSAvoidsystem cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the broadband frequency range into multiple narrowband frequency bands. Instead of measuring the entire broadband range simultaneously with complex equipment, the system segments the measurement into multiple discrete narrowband measurements across different frequency bands, reducing the complexity of individual measurement components while maintaining overall broadband coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs periodic measurements across different frequency bands by sequentially switching between narrowband frequency ranges. The controller systematically varies the frequency band being measured, conducting repeated measurements at different frequency points to build up complete broadband reflection coefficient data through periodic sampling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Measurement precision

If broadband processing components are used, then measurement accuracy across frequency bands is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereflection coefficient accuracyVSAvoidbroadband component requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the broadband measurement task into multiple narrowband measurement tasks. Each narrowband measurement can be performed with simpler, less expensive components optimized for that specific frequency range, while the controller coordinates multiple such measurements to achieve accurate broadband reflection coefficient characterization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses a simplified narrowband measurement setup that is repeatedly applied (copied) across multiple frequency bands. Instead of requiring one complex broadband measurement system, the patent employs a simpler measurement configuration that is systematically replicated across different frequency ranges through controller coordination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach allows for efficient and cost-effective measurement of antenna reflection coefficients, enhancing the quality of wireless communication by selectively improving frequency bands and reducing the need for expensive broadband processing components.

Implementation Method 1

a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) configured to convert a first digital signal to a baseband transmission signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDigital-to-analog conversion:

Implementation Method 2

an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) configured to convert a baseband feedback signal generated from the RF feedback signal to a second signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAnalog-to-digital conversion:

Implementation Method 3

a feedback circuit configured to generate a baseband feedback signal by down-converting and filtering the RF feedback signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDown-conversion:

Data Source

PatentUS10979089B2Method and device for measuring antenna reflection coefficient
Publication Date: 2021.04.13 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US10979089B2 patent drawing
  • US10979089B2 patent drawing
  • US10979089B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device for measuring a reflection coefficient of an antenna by using a radio frequency (RF) feedback signal provided by a coupler based on an RF transmission signal provided to the antenna includes a feedback circuit configured to generate a baseband feedback signal by down-converting and filtering the RF feedback signal, and a signal processing device configured to control the down-converting, based on a target frequency band, process a baseband transmission signal and the baseband feedback signal to have the target frequency band, and calculate a reflection coefficient of the antenna corresponding to the target frequency band. The RF transmission signal is generated from the baseband transmission signal.