LO Signal Level Feedback Control for Stable Mixer Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
In high-frequency band communication systems like 5G, abrupt changes in local oscillator (LO) signal levels due to process, voltage, and temperature variations lead to significant errors in signal conversion, which existing technologies struggle to accurately adjust.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that include a signal level control unit to sense and adjust LO signal levels by using a coupler, envelope detection unit, and signal adjustment unit, along with a lookup table to determine appropriate signal ranges based on PVT states, ensuring precise adjustment of LO signal levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing DC-based adjustment structures are used, then the structure is simple, but the signal level adjustment precision is insufficient for abrupt changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an envelope detection unit as an intermediary component between the signal level detector and the adjustment mechanism. This unit detects the envelope of the local oscillator signal and generates a control signal that accurately reflects abrupt signal level changes, enabling precise adjustment without requiring complex direct control structures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional DC-based mechanical adjustment structures with an electronic control system that uses envelope detection and digital signal processing. This substitution enables more precise and dynamic adjustment of signal levels in response to abrupt changes, overcoming the limitations of static DC-based mechanisms
2Reliability
If no adjustment mechanism is used, then the device complexity is low, but the signal conversion accuracy deteriorates under PVT variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the signal level detector continuously monitors the local oscillator signal level, compares it against a reference, and generates control signals to adjust the signal level back to the desired range. This closed-loop feedback system maintains high signal conversion accuracy under varying PVT conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the local oscillator signal level parameter in response to detected changes, using a lookup table that maps PVT conditions to appropriate adjustment parameters. This allows the system to maintain accurate signal conversion by adapting to environmental variations
3Productivity
If DC-based adjustment is used, then the implementation is simple, but the response to abrupt signal level changes is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static DC-based adjustment to a dynamic adjustment mechanism that responds in real-time to signal level changes. The envelope detection unit and control logic continuously adapt the local oscillator signal level, enabling rapid response to abrupt changes while maintaining system simplicity through modular design
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
This approach reduces errors in signal conversion by accurately adjusting LO signal levels, improving mixer performance and maintaining desired signal output even under varying PVT conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a coupler, a signal level detector, a signal adjustment unit
Implementation Method 2
envelope detection unit, sense and adjust LO signal levels
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
A method and apparatus capable of adjusting a signal level in a wireless communication system are provided. An electronic device includes an oscillator configured to output a local oscillator (LO) signal, a mixer configured to convert a frequency band of a first signal based on the LO signal and output a third signal, and a feedback circuit configured to output a feedback signal for adjusting a magnitude of the LO signal, wherein the mixer is further configured to adjust a magnitude of LO signal based on the feedback signal.