Real-Time RF Calibration Through Antenna-Path Signal Coupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing calibration methods for RF systems require interruptions in the duty cycle due to the need for manual calibration or complex mathematical compensation, leading to reduced efficiency and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for real-time calibration using a coupling device to simultaneously forward RF and calibration signals to the receiver, allowing continuous operation and self-calibration without interrupting regular measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a switch is used to connect the calibration signal generator to the antenna path, then calibration can be performed, but the duty cycle is reduced due to interruption of ongoing RF measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous calibration by injecting calibration signals into the antenna path without interrupting the RF measurement process. The coupling device allows calibration signals to be superimposed on the antenna path continuously, enabling the receiver to perform calibration operations in real-time while maintaining uninterrupted RF signal reception and measurement, thus resolving the contradiction between calibration reliability and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a coupling device as an intermediary component that facilitates the injection of calibration signals into the antenna path without requiring direct connection or interruption of the RF measurement path. This coupling device acts as a mediator that allows calibration signals to be introduced subtly into the existing signal flow, enabling continuous calibration while maintaining uninterrupted RF measurements.
2Productivity
If mathematical compensation methods are used to account for environmental impacts, then duty cycle is maintained, but system complexity increases due to complex mathematical computations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mathematical computation systems with a hardware-based solution. Instead of using mathematical models and sensors to compensate for environmental effects, the system uses a coupling device to physically inject calibration signals that directly counteract environmental impacts on the receiver. This substitution of hardware calibration for software/mathematical compensation reduces computational complexity while maintaining continuous operation.
3Reliability
If calibration signals are injected continuously into the antenna path, then real-time calibration is achieved, but interference with RF signal detection may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the calibration signal injection frequency-specific and location-specific in the frequency domain. The coupling device injects calibration signals at specific frequency points that are distinct from the RF measurement frequencies. This allows the receiver to selectively process calibration signals for calibration purposes while maintaining accurate detection of RF signals at different frequencies, thus resolving the contradiction between calibration accuracy and measurement precision.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a system (10) for real-time calibration. The system (10) comprises at least one antenna (12) configured to receive an RF signal, a receiver (16), and an antenna path (14) that is connected to the at least one antenna (12) and the receiver (16). The system (10) has a calibration signal generator (24) configured to generate a calibration signal. The system (10) has a coupling device (26) connected with the calibration signal generator (24) and the antenna path (14). The coupling device (26) is configured to couple the calibration signal into the antenna path (14) such that the calibration signal and the radio frequency signal are forwarded simultaneously to the receiver (16) via the antenna path (14). Further, a method of performing a real-time calibration is described.