Variable Differential Correlation for OFDM Frequency Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

In Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) systems using Zadoff Chu (ZC) sequences, the correlation characteristic for coarse frequency offset detection is degraded, leading to poor performance in frequency synchronization.

Innovation Solution

A correlation apparatus and method that enhances frequency synchronization by varying the differential correlation interval between the received signal and the reference signal to acquire the highest correlation value, allowing for improved frequency synchronization in broadband wireless access communication systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a Zadoff Chu (ZC) sequence is used as the reference signal, then good Peak-to-Average Power Ratio (PAPR) and auto-correlation properties are achieved, but the correlation characteristic in coarse frequency offset detection deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovePAPR and auto-correlation propertiesVSAvoidcoarse frequency offset detection performance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the differential correlation interval variable rather than fixed. The interval is dynamically adjusted based on the subcarrier index k, expressed as τk=(k mod S)+1, where S is the maximum correlation interval. This dynamic adjustment optimizes the correlation characteristic for each subcarrier, resolving the contradiction between maintaining good auto-correlation properties and improving coarse frequency offset detection performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of the differential correlation interval from a constant value to a variable value that depends on the subcarrier index. By modifying this parameter dynamically across different subcarriers, the system maintains the beneficial PAPR and auto-correlation properties of the ZC sequence while significantly improving the correlation characteristic for coarse frequency offset detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If a fixed differential correlation interval is used, then the detection process is simple, but the correlation characteristic for coarse frequency offset detection is degraded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection process simplicityVSAvoidcoarse frequency offset detection performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a static, fixed differential correlation interval to a dynamic interval that varies with the subcarrier index. This dynamic approach maintains operational simplicity through a systematic formula (τk=(k mod S)+1) while dramatically improving detection performance by adapting the interval to each subcarrier's characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent modifies the differential correlation interval parameter from a constant to a variable that changes based on the subcarrier index. This parameter change enables the system to achieve better correlation characteristics without significantly complicating the detection process, as the variation follows a straightforward mathematical relationship.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8351550B2Correlation apparatus and method for frequency synchronization in broadband wireless access communication system
Publication Date: 2013.01.08 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US8351550B2 patent drawing
  • US8351550B2 patent drawing
  • US8351550B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A correlation apparatus and method for frequency synchronization are provided. A frequency synchronization method of a receiver in a broadband wireless access communication system includes acquiring a highest correlation value by conducting a differential correlation of a variable interval between a received signal and a reference signal and performing a frequency synchronization according to the highest correlation value.