Multi-Panel User Equipment Testing with Fixed Probes for Spherical Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current downlink testing methods for four downlink devices with multiple input multiple output (MIMO) are complex and time-consuming due to the need for testing downlink signals from multiple angles, which is impractical with existing single or two-probe setups.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using at least two first test probes with orthogonal polarization states and a second test probe to measure communications values, selecting the best positions for these probes to optimize testing efficiency, reducing complexity and time by maintaining probe positions while rotating the device under test (DUT) around coordinate axes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple probes are used to test downlink signals from multiple angles, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving multiple probes to different positions to test multiple angles, the patent inverts the approach by keeping probes fixed and rotating the DUT. This reduces the complexity of probe positioning mechanisms while maintaining the ability to measure downlink signals from multiple angles, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the DUT rotation mechanism serve multiple testing functions by rotating the DUT to different orientations to simulate multiple angle of arrival scenarios. This single rotation mechanism replaces what would otherwise require multiple fixed probes positioned at different angles, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive measurement capability
2Measurement precision
If full range of DUT orientation testing is performed with multiple probes, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous DUT rotation through predefined orientation sequences, allowing the system to efficiently test multiple orientations without the time-consuming setup and repositioning required by multiple fixed probes. The continuous rotation mechanism maintains testing flow while comprehensively covering all required orientations, thus reducing total testing time while preserving measurement precision
3Measurement precision
If multiple probes at different positions are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies operation by inverting the traditional approach: instead of requiring operators to position and manage multiple probes at different locations, the system uses fixed probes and rotates the DUT. This inversion dramatically improves ease of operation while maintaining the capability to measure signals from multiple angles through different DUT orientations
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, and systems of testing mobile devices in a four downlink (DL) manner are described. Among other improvements, the methods and systems of the present teaching provide a practical way to provide testing of DUTs that reduces not only the complexity of a test of the DUT, but also the time, required floor space/chamber height of the test system, and equipment that are needed to complete the testing to certain requirements, such as set by a standard.