Host-Centric Antenna Control for Adaptive Laptop Wireless Tuning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current laptop computer designs face challenges in achieving better wireless connectivity and regulatory compliance across various operation modes due to antenna placement constraints, with modem-centric antenna control systems being restrictive and dependent on modem support for advanced features.

Innovation Solution

Implementing host-centric antenna control, where a central processing unit or application processor manages smart antenna features like antenna tuning, best antenna selection, and SAR control, independent of the wireless modem, using sensors and a host-based antenna tuner software module to dynamically adjust antenna configurations based on use cases and RF parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If modem-centric antenna control is used, then antenna configuration is simplified, but adaptability to different operation modes and frequency bands is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna control system complexityVSAvoidadaptability to operation modes and frequency bands
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the antenna control functionality by separating the control logic into modem layer (basic tuning) and host layer (advanced features like beamforming, SAR control, and operation mode adaptation). This segmentation allows each layer to handle specific tasks independently, improving overall adaptability without significantly increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a host processor as an intermediary between the modem and the antenna system. The host processor receives operation mode information from sensors and coordinates antenna configuration across multiple frequency bands, acting as a mediator that enhances adaptability while distributing control complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If host-centric antenna control is implemented, then adaptability and flexibility improve, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna management flexibilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The host processor is designed to perform multiple functions including operation mode detection, antenna tuning coordination, beamforming control, and SAR management. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single universal controller, the system achieves high adaptability without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic antenna control where the host processor continuously monitors operation mode changes through sensors and dynamically adjusts antenna configurations in real-time. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to varying conditions without requiring complex static control structures for every possible scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If multiple antennas are used for different frequency bands, then wireless performance improves, but antenna placement constraints become more challenging

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewireless connectivity performanceVSAvoidantenna placement constraints
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent addresses antenna placement constraints by utilizing three-dimensional spatial arrangement and directional beamforming capabilities. The host processor controls phase and amplitude across multiple antennas to create directional beams, effectively using the spatial dimension to overcome physical placement limitations and improve wireless performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS12469957B2Method and apparatus for implementing host-centric antenna control
Publication Date: 2025.11.11 INTEL CORP
  • US12469957B2 patent drawing
  • US12469957B2 patent drawing
  • US12469957B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and apparatus for implementing host-centric antenna control. An apparatus may include a plurality of antennas for wireless transmission and reception, a wireless modem for processing a signal for wireless transmission and reception via the antennas, a processor (host), and an antenna tuner circuitry. The processor is configured to run an antenna tuner software module configured to generate a control signal to configure at least one antenna. The antenna tuner circuitry is configured to switch or tune the at least one antenna based on the control signal. The apparatus may include at least one sensor coupled to the processor. The antenna tuner software module may be configured to generate the control signal based on inputs from the at least one sensor. The antenna tuner software module may be configured to receive RF parameters from the wireless modem and generate the control signal based on the RF parameters.