Feedforward Oscillation Signal Generation Without Multi-PLL Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional oscillation signal generation in mobile communication systems requires dedicated Phase-Locked Loops (PLLs) and Radio Frequency (RF) oscillators, leading to area and power inefficiencies, as well as issues with electromagnetic coupling and precise delay and gain matching in multi-PLL systems.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for generating oscillation signals using a phase detector circuit to determine phase drift between reference signals, a phase shifter circuit to modify the oscillation signal based on control signals derived from phase and frequency control signals, and a filter circuit to reduce phase noise, allowing for feedforward phase and frequency error cancellation without the need for a PLL.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated PLL and RF oscillator are used for each local oscillator signal, then the oscillation signal generation is reliable and precise, but the area consumption and power consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple PLL structures into a shared architecture where a single PLL generates a common oscillation signal that is then distributed and adjusted for multiple channels. This consolidation reduces the total area consumption while maintaining the reliability of oscillation signal generation through the shared phase-locked loop structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal oscillation signal generation architecture where a single PLL and RF oscillator structure serves multiple local oscillator signals simultaneously. The system achieves multi-functionality by using a common core generator that can produce signals for different channels, reducing both area and power consumption while maintaining signal quality.
2Productivity
If multiple PLLs are operated simultaneously with LC tank as DCO, then multiple local oscillator signals are generated, but electromagnetic coupling occurs between the PLLs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the oscillation signal generation function from multiple separate PLL structures and consolidates it into a single shared PLL. By removing the redundant LC tank oscillators from each individual PLL, the system eliminates the electromagnetic coupling between multiple oscillators while maintaining the capability to generate multiple local oscillator signals through a unified architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two-point modulation is used for the PLL, then the oscillation signal can be modulated, but precise delay and gain matching becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using a shared oscillation signal generation core that provides a common reference for all modulation operations. This intermediary structure eliminates the need for precise delay and gain matching in two-point modulation by providing a unified signal source that all channels can reference, thereby maintaining modulation capability while avoiding the matching precision problems.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for generating an oscillation signal is provided. The apparatus includes an input configured to receive a first reference oscillation signal, and a phase detector circuit configured to determine a phase drift of the first reference oscillation signal with respect to a second reference oscillation signal. Further, the apparatus includes a phase shifter circuit configured to generate the oscillation signal based on the first reference oscillation signal and a control signal. The control signal is based on the phase drift and a frequency control signal comprising control data for the phase shifter circuit for adjusting a frequency of the oscillation signal to a desired frequency.