Reconfigurable MIMO Transceiver with LO Distribution Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transceivers lack the ability to seamlessly reconfigure between different duplex and frequency conversion architectures, limiting their versatility and efficiency in supporting multiple radio access technologies and duplex modes.
Innovation Solution
The proposed integrated transceiver design utilizes a plurality of structurally identical frequency synthesizers, Rx and Tx chains, and a LO path distribution circuit composed of 1-to-2 signal splitters and 2-to-1 signal multiplexers, enabling reconfigurable multi-mode support for various duplex and frequency conversion architectures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single integrated transceiver is designed to support multiple duplex modes and frequency conversion architectures, then versatility and adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal transceiver design where identical Rx and Tx chains can be configured to operate in multiple duplex modes (FDD, TDD, half-duplex) and frequency conversion architectures (direct conversion, super-heterodyne, ZIF). The LO distribution circuit enables a single transceiver to perform functions of multiple independent transceivers, achieving multi-functionality without requiring separate hardware for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The transceiver employs dynamic reconfiguration through the LO distribution circuit, which can dynamically switch between different LO signal distribution patterns. The system can transition between operating modes (FDD/TDD, different frequency conversion architectures) by reconfiguring the LO distribution network, allowing the same hardware to adapt its behavior based on operational requirements.
2Reliability
If separate transceivers are used for different duplex modes and frequency conversion architectures, then reliability and performance are improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple transceiver functions into a single integrated transceiver by combining identical Rx and Tx chains with a reconfigurable LO distribution circuit. This consolidation achieves the functionality of multiple separate transceivers (supporting different duplex modes and frequency conversion architectures) while reducing the overall device count and simplifying the system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The identical Rx and Tx chains are designed to be universal and can be configured for different operating modes through the LO distribution circuit. This universality allows a single transceiver to replace multiple specialized transceivers, maintaining performance reliability while reducing device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If different frequency synthesizers are used for different transceiver chains, then frequency precision and stability are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs identical frequency synthesizers across all transceiver chains, where each synthesizer can be configured to provide LO signals for different operating modes. This universal approach to frequency synthesis maintains frequency accuracy and stability while reducing the number of synthesizers needed, thereby simplifying the overall device architecture and reducing manufacturing costs.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a reconfigurable transceiver design is implemented, then adaptability to different radio access technologies is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The reconfigurable transceiver achieves multi-mode support through parameter changes in the LO distribution circuit rather than physical hardware changes. By adjusting the configuration parameters of the LO distribution network, the same hardware can be manufactured once and then configured for different operating modes (FDD, TDD, half-duplex) and frequency conversion architectures, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining adaptability.
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AI summary
Reconfigurable multiple input multiple output wideband integrated transceiver with two transmit, two receive paths and four identical dedicated local oscillation signal PLL synthesizers, is presented. A local oscillator distribution circuit, which interconnects all PLL synthesizers outputs to all transmit and receive path quadrature signal generator inputs and radio frequency signal mixers, is also provided. Proposed transmit and receive path structure, and local oscillator distribution circuit, enables to reconfigure the transceiver for two frequency conversion architecture designs - direct or double frequency conversion. Both frequency conversion architecture designs can be used in either frequency or time division duplex mode. The presented transceiver can be reconfigured for a total of seven different frequency conversion and duplex mode configurations.