Receiver Intermodulation Distortion Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting intermodulation distortion (IMD) in wireless receivers are inadequate, particularly as they require additional receivers and are trained with weaker PIM signals, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that collect and compare data sets of receiver signal amplitudes based on predetermined levels of intermodulation distortion, using statistical distributions to determine the extent of IMD without disabling live traffic, and employing a processor to analyze these data sets for accurate distortion measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing methods for detecting intermodulation distortion are used, then detection capability is provided, but additional receivers are required which increases device complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple receivers into a single receiver that can process both the desired signal and the intermodulation distortion signal. The receiver uses a single signal path to capture the composite signal containing both the desired reception signal and the intermodulation distortion, eliminating the need for separate receivers while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver is designed to perform multiple functions: it simultaneously receives the desired signal, detects intermodulation distortion, and distinguishes between the two. By making the single receiver universal in its capabilities, the system eliminates the need for additional dedicated receivers for distortion detection.
2Measurement precision
If existing methods train with weaker PIM signals, then detection is possible, but the training signal strength is insufficient leading to reduced measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of training signal strength by using the full-strength desired signal instead of weakened PIM signals for training. This parameter change allows the system to achieve better measurement accuracy because the training is based on stronger, more reliable signal characteristics.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A receiver equipped to determine a condition of intermodulation distortion is presented. The receiver comprises a detector module (34) configured to detect a measurement indicative of intermodulation distortion. The receiver further comprises a collector module (36) configured to collect in a first data set (30) samples of a receiver signal amplitude when the measurement indicative of intermodulation distortion exceeds a first pre-determined level and to collect in a second data set (32) samples of the receiver signal amplitude when the measurement indicative of intermodulation distortion does not exceed a second pre-determined level, the second pre-determined level being less than the first pre-determined level. Moreover, the receiver comprises a comparator module (40) configured to perform a comparison based on data of the first data set and data of the second data set to determine a measure of intermodulation distortion.