Phase shift module with an enhanced frequency multiplier and temperature compensation in local oscillator path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phase shifters in RF systems introduce significant losses and require complex calibration, leading to degraded performance and increased power consumption, especially in 5G phased arrays where precise phase control is crucial for directional steering and signal quality.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a phase shift module with an enhanced frequency multiplier and temperature compensation in the local oscillator (LO) path, which uses both the phase-shifted and inverted signals to achieve a wider range of phase shifts with reduced loss, and adjusts for temperature variations, allowing for built-in calibration and improved phase synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If phase shifters are used to provide controllable phase shift of RF signals, then phase control precision is improved, but signal loss increases and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional phase shifters with a frequency multiplier-based phase shift module. Instead of using phase shifters that directly manipulate RF signal phase (causing high loss), the invention uses a frequency multiplier to generate a frequency-multiplied LO signal, then uses this signal in mixers to achieve the desired phase shift effect. This substitution of the mechanical/electrical phase shifting mechanism with a frequency multiplication and mixing mechanism reduces signal loss while maintaining phase control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters by working in the LO path rather than the RF path. The phase shift module modifies the frequency and phase of the local oscillator signal before it reaches the mixers. By changing from direct RF phase shifting to LO frequency multiplication and phase adjustment, the system achieves better performance with lower loss.
2Adaptability or versatility
If phase shifters are used to provide controllable phase shift, then phase control capability is improved, but device complexity increases due to calibration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements built-in calibration capability where the phase shift module can automatically calibrate itself using the frequency-multiplied LO signal. The system uses the inherent properties of the frequency multiplier and mixer to perform self-diagnosis and self-adjustment, eliminating the need for external calibration equipment and reducing operational complexity. The calibration process is integrated into the normal operation of the phase shift module.
3Adaptability or versatility
If frequency multiplier is used to multiply LO signal frequency, then phase shift range is improved, but temperature sensitivity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses temperature sensitivity by changing the operating parameters of the frequency multiplier. The design optimizes the multiplier's operating point and uses temperature-compensated components to maintain stable performance across temperature variations. By carefully selecting and tuning the parameters of the frequency multiplier circuit, the system achieves wide phase shift range while minimizing temperature sensitivity.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for providing phase shifting in antenna arrays, such as phased antenna arrays of 5G cellular technology, are disclosed. In one aspect, an example phase shift module may include a phase shifter and a frequency multiplier. The phase shifter is configured to receive an LOcal oscillator (LO) signal and output a signal that is phase-shifted by a desired phase shift with respect to the LO signal. The frequency multiplier may be an enhanced frequency multiplier, configured to use not only the phase-shifted signal but also an inverted version of the phase-shifted signal to generate a frequency-multiplied signal having a frequency that is a multiple of the LO signal frequency. In another aspect, an example phase shift module may be configured to apply to an LO signal a phase shift that takes into consideration variations of phase shift over temperature.