Multi-Antenna Array Calibration Using Recurrent Displacement Vectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current calibration methods for multi-antenna arrays in wireless communication networks are complex, costly, and unable to effectively address phase errors between antenna elements, especially in large-scale arrays used in 5G and NR systems.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses recurrent displacement vectors and channel estimates to provide phase correcting information for calibrating multi-antenna arrays, reducing the complexity and cost of calibration by leveraging existing radio signals and standardized codebooks, and allowing for alignment with effective channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional calibration methods are used for multi-antenna arrays, then calibration can be performed, but the process becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs calibration using its own transmitted signals and received signals from other antenna arrays. The calibration process utilizes the multi-antenna array's self-capability to generate and receive signals for calibration purposes, eliminating the need for external calibration equipment and reducing calibration complexity while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration method employs feedback mechanisms where signals transmitted by one antenna array are received by other antenna arrays, and the received signal characteristics are fed back to compute calibration information. This feedback loop enables the system to automatically adjust and correct phase errors without requiring complex external calibration systems
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional calibration methods are used for multi-antenna arrays, then calibration can be performed, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system uses the antenna array's own transmitted and received signals for calibration, eliminating the need for expensive external calibration equipment. The system leverages its existing hardware components to perform calibration functions, significantly reducing calibration costs while maintaining manufacturing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna array's transmission and reception components serve dual purposes: normal communication operations and calibration operations. By making the existing hardware universal for both functions, the system eliminates the need for separate dedicated calibration equipment, thereby reducing overall system cost while preserving calibration precision
3Manufacturing precision
If calibration is performed on large-scale antenna arrays, then phase errors can be addressed, but the calibration process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration process is segmented into manageable computations involving covariance matrices and correlation information from specific signal pairs. Instead of attempting to calibrate all antenna elements simultaneously, the system processes calibration information in structured segments based on signal transmission and reception patterns, making the overall complex calibration task more manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or hardware-based calibration systems with computational methods. Phase error correction is achieved through mathematical operations on covariance matrices and correlation information rather than through complex physical adjustment mechanisms, simplifying the calibration process for large-scale antenna arrays
Data Source
AI summary
Method and one or more first devices for supporting calibration of a multi-antenna array comprised in a first antenna device operative with a wireless communication network. The first device(s) provide phase correcting information, to be used in calibration of the multi-antenna array, based on covariances corresponding to recurrent displacement vectors of the multi-antenna array. Said covariances being based on channel estimates estimated from certain radio signals received after transmission over radio propagation channels between said multi-antenna array of the first antenna device and one or more second antenna devices operative with the wireless communication network.