RF Signal Generation via Non-Integer Clock Ratio Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RF transmitter designs for Massive MIMO systems face challenges in scalability and cost due to the linear increase in size and cost with the number of transceiver chains, and existing digital transmitter concepts lack the required performance and complexity for effective implementation, especially in the frequency range below 6 GHz.
Innovation Solution
A method for generating RF signals by modulating digital pulse sequences at non-integer clock ratios, allowing for efficient digital signal processing and reducing the need for complex analog components, enabling the use of Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) for cost-effective and space-efficient implementations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional RF transmitter chains are implemented for each output, then signal quality and performance are maintained, but size and cost increase linearly with the number of outputs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple RF transmitter chains into a single digital processing unit that generates multiple RF outputs through digital signal processing. Instead of implementing separate analog RF chains for each output, the system uses a single digital baseband processor that can generate multiple RF signals simultaneously, thereby reducing the overall size and cost while maintaining signal quality through digital precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces analog RF circuitry with digital signal processing techniques. By substituting mechanical/analog components (RF amplifiers, mixers, oscillators) with digital processing, the system achieves better scalability and reduced complexity. The digital approach allows multiple RF outputs to be generated through software-defined radio techniques rather than physical hardware duplication
2Device complexity
If multiple transceiver chains are integrated in a single IC, then size is reduced, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase for massive numbers of transceivers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the transceiver functionality into separate digital processing and RF output stages. The digital baseband processing is implemented as a modular unit that can be independently manufactured and tested, while the RF output stage uses simple digital-to-analog conversion. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing and assembly compared to integrating all functions in a single complex IC
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal digital processing unit that can serve multiple RF outputs through reconfigurable digital signal processing. This single multi-functional unit can generate multiple RF signals by changing digital parameters rather than requiring separate dedicated circuits for each function, thereby simplifying manufacturing while maintaining the capability to support multiple transceivers
3Device complexity
If digital transmitter concepts are used to reduce complexity, then manufacturing cost decreases, but signal quality and performance are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the key parameter from analog signal processing to digital signal processing with precise clock rate relationships. By carefully selecting and maintaining specific ratios between clock rates (first clock rate for baseband, second clock rate for RF, third clock rate for pulse quantization), the system achieves high signal quality through digital precision while keeping implementation complexity manageable through standardized digital processing techniques
4Ease of manufacture
If digital signal processing is used instead of analog components, then cost and power consumption are reduced, but achieving required signal quality becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms in the digital signal processing chain to maintain signal quality. By using feedback loops that monitor and adjust digital signal parameters, the system compensates for quantization errors and maintains high signal quality despite the use of digital processing. This feedback approach allows cost-effective digital implementation while meeting precision requirements
Data Source
AI summary
At least one embodiment relates to generating at least one RF signal based on at least one digital baseband signal at a first clock rate. At least one digital pulse sequence at a second clock rate corresponding to a center frequency of the RF signal is modulated based on the digital baseband signal. Pulses of the pulse sequence are quantized based on a time grid of a third clock rate. A ratio between a number of second clock cycles corresponding to one first clock cycle and a number of third clock cycles corresponding to one first clock cycle is non-integer.