Repeater Gain Hold Processor for Dynamic Signal Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cellular network repeaters struggle to dynamically adjust gain in response to sudden changes in signal power levels, leading to compromised output signal quality, especially during initial call initiation phases where handsets send short bursts of information, resulting in inadequate indoor coverage and increased interference.
Innovation Solution
A repeater system with a gain hold processor that executes an algorithm to dynamically control gain, holding the gain at the level set by a large burst of input signal power before a drop, overriding normal automatic gain control behavior, and slowly ramping up gain after extended signal absence, tailored for specific signal types like LTE or WCDMA.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If typical repeaters adjust gain in response to sudden power changes, then output signal power can be maintained, but the repeater reacts too slowly to sudden up-steps in input signal power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by predicting future gain requirements based on historical signal power patterns. The system analyzes past up-steps and down-steps to anticipate upcoming power changes, adjusting gain before the actual change occurs. This allows the repeater to respond instantaneously to sudden up-steps rather than reacting with delay, while still maintaining reliable output power through the predictive mechanism.
2Area of stationary object
If repeater gain is increased to compensate for signal attenuation in buildings, then indoor coverage is improved, but interference levels in the wireless network increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing continuous, real-time gain adjustment based on actual signal conditions rather than static gain settings. The system dynamically modifies gain levels in response to changing input power levels, ensuring the minimum necessary amplification is applied. This dynamic approach maximizes indoor coverage area while minimizing interference generation, as the gain is precisely tailored to current needs rather than being fixed at high levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies feedback by continuously monitoring input signal power levels and using this information to adjust gain settings. The system measures actual signal conditions and feeds this information back to the gain control mechanism, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to changing conditions. This feedback mechanism ensures coverage is maintained while preventing excessive gain that would generate harmful interference.
3Adaptability or versatility
If repeaters use traditional automatic gain control, then gain can be adjusted to signal conditions, but the control responds too slowly to sudden power level changes during call initiation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using historical power level data to predict upcoming changes before they occur. The system analyzes patterns in signal power variations and proactively adjusts gain in anticipation of future conditions, particularly during critical phases like call initiation. This eliminates the time loss associated with traditional reactive AGC systems that only respond after changes have already occurred.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies skipping by implementing a fast response mechanism that bypasses the slow traditional AGC control loop for sudden power changes. When rapid adaptation is detected as necessary, the system rushes through the gain adjustment process instantaneously rather than following the gradual, slow response of conventional AGC. This allows the repeater to keep pace with rapid signal variations during critical communication phases.
Data Source
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AI summary
A repeater configured to dynamically affect the gain level of the repeater in response to the input signal power level over time. The repeater system includes a gain hold processor executing a gain hold algorithm. The gain hold algorithm preempts a large up-step in signal power level to follow a large down-step in signal power level. After a large up-step in input signal is detected, the system holds the gain level in response to a drop in input signal level after the large up-step. The gain is held at the level set by the large burst of input signal power to the repeater. In response to a larger up-step in signal power level, the system will lower the gain. In response to a large down-step in signal power after the larger up-step in signal power level, the system will hold the gain level of the repeater. During a prolonged low-power level or zero power signal at the input of the repeater, the system will slowly raise the gain level of the repeater over time.