Antenna Tuning With Unreliable Data Filtering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication devices face challenges in managing the specific absorption rate (SAR) due to unreliable data from user-proximal positions, leading to unnecessary power reduction and performance diminishment when the application processor is unlocked, as they must assume a 'worst-case' scenario to ensure SAR compliance.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for tuning the antenna in communication devices that involves identifying unreliable data and modifying the set of possible tuning states using a baseband processor and an ancillary processor to restrict tuning to a subset of states, ensuring SAR compliance by eliminating potentially problematic states, such as user-proximal positions, in favor of default or free-space tuning states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the application processor is unlocked to allow user tweaking, then device functionality and user control are improved, but data reliability deteriorates leading to SAR compliance issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a baseband processor as an intermediary between the unlocked application processor and the antenna tuning system. The baseband processor receives tuning data from the application processor, validates its reliability, and independently determines the final tuning state. This mediator architecture allows the system to utilize user-controlled functionality while maintaining data reliability through validation mechanisms.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If power is cut back all the time when the application processor is unlocked, then SAR compliance is ensured, but device performance deteriorates unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating between reliable and unreliable data sources rather than applying a uniform power reduction. The baseband processor evaluates each tuning data instance and applies selective power adjustments only when reliability is compromised. This localized approach maintains high performance when data is trustworthy while ensuring SAR compliance only when necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the power level parameter based on the reliability assessment of tuning data. When data is reliable, the antenna operates at full power for optimal performance. When data reliability is questionable, the system adjusts the power parameter to compliant levels. This dynamic parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction between consistent compliance and performance optimization.
3Reliability
If the worst-case scenario is assumed for SAR management, then SAR compliance is guaranteed, but transmitted power is unnecessarily reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the baseband processor continuously evaluates the reliability of tuning data before determining power levels. This feedback loop allows the system to adapt transmitted power based on actual data quality rather than assuming the worst case continuously. When feedback indicates reliable data, full power is permitted; when reliability is doubtful, power is reduced accordingly.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for tuning an antenna of a communication device includes receiving, at a processing element within the communication device, data relevant to tuning the antenna and identifying an unreliable portion of the data. The method also includes identifying, based on the unreliable portion of the data, a first set of tuning states for tuning the antenna, wherein the first set of tuning states is a subset of a plurality of possible tuning states for tuning the antenna. The method further includes restricting tuning of the antenna to tuning states within the first set of tuning states.