Reference Signal Path Switching for Low-Loss Multi-Antenna Transmission

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electronic devices supporting 1T2R/2T4R transmission face limitations in transmitting reference signals due to relatively large path loss in some transmission paths, preventing effective channel estimation and beamforming.

Innovation Solution

The electronic device employs multiple RFICs and RFFE circuits connected to distinct antenna groups, allowing controlled transmission of reference signals through paths with reduced path loss and increased power, enabling 1T4R operation even in devices that typically support only 1T2R/2T4R.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If reference signal is transmitted through limited transmission paths in 1T2R/2T4R devices, then device complexity is reduced, but channel estimation accuracy deteriorates due to relatively large path loss

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechannel estimation accuracyVSAvoidtransmission path configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the transmission system into multiple independent transmission paths, each with its own RFIC and RFFE circuit. This segmentation allows the device to selectively activate transmission paths with lower path loss for reference signal transmission, thereby improving channel estimation accuracy without requiring a complete redesign of the entire transmission system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic selection of transmission paths based on channel conditions. The system can adaptively choose which transmission paths to use for reference signal transmission, switching between different paths depending on which ones exhibit lower path loss. This dynamic approach allows the system to optimize channel estimation accuracy while managing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Measurement precision

If reference signal transmission power is increased to overcome path loss, then channel estimation accuracy is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechannel estimation accuracyVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different transmission power levels to different transmission paths based on their specific channel characteristics. Instead of uniformly increasing power across all paths, the system identifies paths with lower path loss and concentrates transmission power on those specific paths, thereby improving channel estimation accuracy while minimizing overall power consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts transmission power parameters based on channel conditions and path loss characteristics. By changing power parameters adaptively rather than using fixed high power, the system achieves improved channel estimation accuracy while controlling power consumption through intelligent parameter optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If additional RFIC and RFFE circuits are added to enable 1T4R operation, then transmission performance is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission rateVSAvoidcircuit configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the additional RFIC and RFFE circuits to serve multiple functions: they can be used for reference signal transmission on paths with lower path loss, and also for general data transmission. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve improved data transmission rates while justifying the added complexity through versatile utility of the additional components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a configuration where the device has capability for 1T4R operation but may not always utilize all four transmission paths simultaneously. The system can operate with fewer active paths when conditions warrant, using the additional circuits as backup or for specific functions like reference signal transmission, thereby achieving performance improvement without always incurring the full complexity cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS12562867B2Electronic device and method for transmitting reference signal in electronic device
Publication Date: 2026.02.24 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US12562867B2 patent drawing
  • US12562867B2 patent drawing
  • US12562867B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a communication processor, at least one radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC), a first radio frequency front end (RFFE) circuit, a second FRRE circuit, a first antenna group including a plurality of antennas each connected through the first RFFE circuit to transmit a signal corresponding to at least one communication network, and a second antenna group including a plurality of antennas each connected through the second RFFE circuit to transmit a signal corresponding to at least one communication network, wherein the communication processor is configured to control to transmit a reference signal referenced for channel estimation in a base station of a first communication network to at least one of the plurality of antennas of the first antenna group through the first REEF circuit, and control to transmit the reference signal to at least one of the plurality of antennas of the second antenna group through the second RFFE circuit.