Multi-PLL RF Chain Architecture for Low-Noise mmWave Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Next-generation communication systems using super-high frequency (mmWave) bands face signal quality deterioration due to narrowed subcarrier intervals and repeated frequency conversions, which exacerbate signal degradation.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device is designed with multiple RF chips and processors, each equipped with PLL circuits, to synchronize and convert signals, minimizing phase noise correlation and maintaining signal quality by distributing frequency conversion tasks across multiple RF chains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If frequency conversion is performed several times to generate super-high frequency band signals, then communication capability in mmWave band is achieved, but signal quality deteriorates significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The frequency conversion process is segmented into multiple independent stages, each handled by a separate RF chain with its own PLL circuit. Instead of performing all frequency conversions in a single chain, the patent divides the task across multiple chains (e.g., first RF chain performs first frequency conversion, second RF chain performs second frequency conversion). This segmentation isolates the phase noise of each conversion stage, preventing cumulative phase noise degradation that would occur in a single-chain architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the frequency conversion system by introducing multiple RF chains operating at different frequency stages. Each RF chain is configured with specific PLL circuits tuned to appropriate frequency ranges, transforming the single-point frequency conversion approach into a distributed multi-parameter system. This parameter distribution across multiple chains reduces the phase noise correlation and maintains signal quality in the super-high frequency band.
2Speed
If multiple frequency conversions are performed in a single RF chain, then super-high frequency signal generation is achieved, but phase noise accumulates and correlates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frequency conversion function across multiple independent RF chains rather than concentrating all conversions in one chain. Each RF chain performs a subset of the total frequency conversions, and each chain has its own PLL circuit that generates independent phase noise. This physical segmentation breaks the phase noise correlation that would exist if all conversions were performed sequentially in a single chain, as the phase noise sources are spatially and electrically separated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates multiple copies of the RF chain architecture, where each copy (RF chain) is a functional duplicate capable of performing frequency conversion. Instead of overloading a single RF chain with multiple conversion stages, the system uses multiple copied RF chains, each handling a portion of the conversion task. This copying approach distributes the phase noise across independent instances, reducing the overall phase noise correlation in the final super-high frequency signal.
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 effectively prevents signal quality deterioration during super-high frequency band transmission by reducing phase noise correlation and optimizing signal processing across multiple RF chains, ensuring reliable communication.
Implementation Method 1
a first phase locked loop circuit configured to lock a phase of the first signal outputted from the first processor, a second phase locked loop circuit configured to lock a phase of the second signal outputted from the second processor
Data Source
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Figure 3
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AI summary
A communication technique for converging internet of everything (IoT) technology with a 5th generation (5G) communication system for supporting a higher data transfer rate beyond a 4G system is provided. The communication technique can be applied to intelligent services, based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology. In an embodiment, an electronic device includes a first processor configured to output a first signal for generating a first frequency signal, a second processor configured to output a second signal for generating a second frequency signal, a first radio frequency (RF) chip configured to output the first frequency signal, based on the first signal received from the first processor and a baseband signal, and a second RF chip configured to output the second frequency signal, based on the second signal received from the second processor and the first frequency signal outputted from the first RF chip.