Non-Uniform Constellation Coding for SNR-Adaptive BICM Capacity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current coding and modulation systems, particularly in BICM apparatus, face limitations in maximizing coding and modulation capacity due to suboptimal constellation point placement, which affects performance in varying channel conditions and signal-to-noise ratios.

Innovation Solution

A coding and modulation apparatus that uses a non-uniform constellation with optimized constellation points defined by a constellation position vector, allowing for adaptive selection based on channel characteristics and signal-to-noise ratio, to enhance coding and modulation capacity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If uniform constellation points are used in BICM apparatus, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but coding and modulation capacity is limited and cannot be maximized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconstellation structure complexityVSAvoidcoding and modulation capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by transitioning from uniform constellation points to non-uniform constellation points where each point's position is optimized locally based on channel conditions and SNR. The constellation position vector allows different regions of the constellation to have different spacing and distribution characteristics, maximizing coding capacity in each local region while maintaining overall system performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by dynamically adjusting constellation point positions based on channel characteristics and signal-to-noise ratio. The constellation position vector serves as a parameter set that can be modified according to operating conditions, allowing the system to adapt and maximize coding capacity without increasing fundamental device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If non-uniform constellation points optimized for specific SNR are used, then coding and modulation capacity is maximized, but adaptability to varying channel conditions decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoding and modulation capacityVSAvoidadaptability to channel conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the constellation position vector adjustable and adaptable to varying channel conditions. Instead of using a fixed non-uniform constellation optimized for a specific SNR, the system can dynamically modify the constellation point positions based on current channel characteristics, thereby maintaining both high coding capacity and adaptability across different operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by designing a constellation structure that can serve multiple functions and adapt to various channel conditions. The non-uniform constellation with adjustable position vector can be configured for different SNR levels and channel types, making it a universal solution that maximizes coding capacity across diverse operating environments rather than being optimized for a single condition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If constellation points are perturbed from capacity optimized positions, then robustness against channel variations is improved, but coding and modulation capacity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverobustness against channel variationsVSAvoidcoding and modulation capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves this contradiction through parameter changes by using a constellation position vector that can be adjusted based on channel conditions. Rather than permanently perturbing points from optimal positions, the system modifies the position parameters dynamically, maintaining capacity optimization when conditions allow while providing robustness when channel variations occur.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies feedback by using channel characteristics and SNR information to adjust constellation point positions. The system receives feedback about channel conditions and modifies the constellation position vector accordingly, ensuring that points remain at capacity-optimized positions when possible while adapting to maintain robustness when channel variations occur.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP2992656B1Coding and modulation apparatus using non-uniform constellation
Publication Date: 2017.03.22 SONY GROUP CORP
  • EP2992656B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP2992656B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5B
  • EP2992656B1 patent drawingFigure 6A~6B

AI summary

A coding and modulation apparatus and method are presented. The apparatus (10) comprises an encoder (11) that encodes input data into cell words, and a modulator (12) that modulates said cell words into constellation values of a non-uniform constellation. The modulator (12) is configured to use, based on the total number M of constellation points of the constellation and the signal-to-noise ratio SNR in dB, a non-uniform constellation from a group of constellations comprising one or more of predetermined constellations defined by the constellation position vector w0...b-1, wherein b=M/4.