Multi-band Base Station Combiner with Integrated Modems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-band base station systems face limitations in using the same combiner structure for both upper and lower links and are restricted by insertion loss guidelines, leading to complex system configurations and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A combiner design with multiple ports for different frequency bands and a common feeder cable, incorporating DC signal lines, control signal lines, switching modules, and modems that can identify operation types to control signal flow, allowing for common use across links and reducing insertion loss by modulating and demodulating control signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional combiners with reverse current prevention are used for both upper and lower links, then reverse current protection is provided, but the upper and lower combiners must have different structures which increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a combiner structure that can serve both upper link and lower link functions. The same combiner model can be used in both positions by controlling the switching module according to different operation types, eliminating the need for different combiner structures for upper and lower links while maintaining reverse current protection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by introducing a switching module that can dynamically change the signal path configuration based on the operation type (upper link or lower link). The switching module allows the combiner to adapt its internal connectivity dynamically, enabling a single combiner structure to fulfill multiple roles with different signal flow requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of supported service frequency bands is increased in conventional combiners, then multi-band capability is improved, but insertion loss increases beyond AISG restrictions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the combiner into multiple independent filtering paths, each handling a specific frequency band. Each band has its own filtering and switching path, allowing signals to be processed separately. This segmentation prevents signal degradation and insertion loss accumulation that would occur in cascaded multi-band combiners, enabling support for more frequency bands while maintaining acceptable insertion loss levels.
3Reliability
If separate modems are installed for upper and lower links in conventional systems, then signal processing is provided, but system configuration becomes complex and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the modem functionality into the combiner itself, creating an integrated unit that performs both signal combining/splitting and modulation/demodulation functions. By integrating the modem with the combiner, the system eliminates separate modem devices, simplifies configuration, and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining full signal processing capability for both upper and lower links.
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
Enables the use of a common combiner for both upper and lower links, simplifies system configuration, and overcomes insertion loss restrictions, thereby reducing costs and improving efficiency in multi-band base station systems.
Implementation Method 1
The switching modules are each provided on each of the DC signal lines. The control unit controls switching of each of the switching modules according to an operation type of the combiner
Implementation Method 2
The modems are provided on each of the control signal lines to modulate or demodulate an input control signal
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a combiner utilized in a multi-band base station system and including a plurality of first ports assigned different frequency bands and a second port in connection with a common feeder cable, including DC signal lines each branching from each first port and the second port, control signal lines each branching from each first port and the second port, switching modules on each of the DC signal lines, modems provided on each control signal line to modulate or demodulate an input control signal, and a control unit configured to control switching of each switching module according to an operation type of the combiner. The operation type includes a first type being responsive to signal inputs through at least some of the plurality of first ports and a second type being responsive to a signal input through the second port.