Antenna Polarization Tuning for PIM Interference in MIMO Uplinks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing complexity of 5G networks and multiple wireless services necessitates improved antenna designs to mitigate passive intermodulation (PIM) interference, which affects uplink sensitivity and performance in MIMO systems, particularly in densely populated areas with overlapping antenna coverage and obstructed environments.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for detecting and mitigating PIM by adjusting polarization and phase shifting/delaying of radiating elements in antennas, including physical and electronic adjustments, to minimize interference in the intermediate, near-field, and far-field regions, thereby optimizing uplink performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wireless services and bands are deployed to increase network capacity and throughput, then network functionality and service diversity are improved, but passive intermodulation interference increases and uplink sensitivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new dimension for signal separation by utilizing polarization diversity. The antenna system employs multiple radiating elements with different polarization orientations (e.g., vertical, horizontal, slant) to receive signals from different polarization states. This dimensional approach allows the system to separate desired signals from PIM interference based on their polarization characteristics, effectively addressing the interference problem without limiting network service diversity.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna system is segmented into multiple independent radiating elements, each capable of receiving signals with different polarization characteristics. This segmentation allows the system to process signals from different polarization states separately, enabling selective combination of desired signals while rejecting PIM interference that appears in different polarization states than the intended signal.
2Area of stationary object
If antenna coverage is expanded to serve densely populated areas, then network coverage and capacity are improved, but interference from overlapping coverage and obstructed environments increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs polarization diversity to add a new dimension for distinguishing desired signals from environmental interference. By configuring radiating elements with different polarization orientations, the system can identify and reject interference from obstructed environments and overlapping coverage areas based on their different polarization characteristics, thereby expanding coverage without proportionally increasing interference.
3Reliability
If traditional guard bands and duplexers are used to mitigate interference, then signal separation is improved, but device complexity and loss of frequency resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical filtering components (guard bands and duplexers) with an electromagnetic field-based solution using polarization diversity. Instead of using physical frequency separation mechanisms, the system utilizes the polarization state of electromagnetic waves to separate desired signals from interference. This substitution reduces device complexity and eliminates the need for guard bands, thereby preserving frequency resources while maintaining reliable signal separation.
4Measurement precision
If polarization adjusting is implemented to mitigate PIM, then uplink sensitivity is improved, but antenna design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is divided into multiple radiating elements with different fixed polarization orientations. Each element is designed to receive signals with specific polarization characteristics. This segmentation approach allows the system to achieve polarization diversity without requiring complex adjustable mechanisms, as each element's polarization characteristic is determined by its physical orientation during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the polarization parameter of the antenna system by configuring radiating elements at different orientations (e.g., 0°, 45°, 90°). This parameter change enables the system to receive signals with different polarization states, improving uplink sensitivity by selectively combining signals from elements with matching polarization characteristics while rejecting PIM interference.
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
The described system effectively reduces PIM interference by selectively controlling interference reception in antennas, improving uplink coverage and data speeds, and potentially eliminating the need for guard bands and duplexers in TDD and FDD systems.
Implementation Method 1
adjusting polarization and phase shifting/delaying of radiating elements in antennas
Implementation Method 2
phase shifting/delaying of radiating elements
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, obtaining data regarding passive intermodulation (PIM) detected in a received communication signal, and performing polarization adjusting for a communications system such that an impact of the PIM on the communications system is minimized. Other embodiments are disclosed.