RF Test Waveform Generation With Closed-Loop DUT Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RF signal generators for testing DUTs are cumbersome and time-consuming, especially when adapting to new mobile communication standards requiring real-time adjustments based on machine learning models and varying channel conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an output port, waveform generator, communication interface, and processing unit that dynamically generates waveform information based on feedback signals to adjust RF output signals, using stored or real-time calculated waveform samples, allowing for adaptable and generic signal generation across different standards and DUT types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of test signals is used, then the system is simple to operate, but the testing process becomes time-consuming and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements an automated feedback mechanism where the processing unit receives feedback signals from the DUT and automatically generates updated waveform information to adjust the RF output signal. This closed-loop feedback system eliminates manual intervention while enabling rapid adaptation to DUT responses, thereby reducing testing time without sacrificing operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The signal generator performs self-adjustment by automatically processing feedback signals and regenerating appropriate waveform information. The system serves itself by autonomously adapting the RF test signals based on received feedback, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention and significantly accelerating the testing process.
2Reliability
If fixed waveform signals are used, then the system is stable and reliable, but it cannot adapt to new communication standards and channel conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static fixed waveforms to dynamic adaptive waveforms. The processing unit continuously generates updated waveform information based on feedback signals, allowing the RF output signal to adapt in real-time to new communication standards and channel conditions while maintaining operational reliability through controlled regeneration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes waveform parameters dynamically by generating new waveform information from feedback signals. This includes adjusting modulation characteristics, frequency, and other signal parameters to match new communication standards and channel conditions, enabling versatility without compromising the stability of the core generation mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If real-time waveform regeneration is implemented, then adaptability to feedback signals is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processing unit serves multiple functions: it receives feedback signals, processes them to generate waveform information, and controls the waveform generator. This multi-functional design consolidates complexity into a single versatile component rather than requiring separate dedicated modules for each function, thereby managing system complexity while achieving real-time adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication interface acts as an intermediary between the DUT and the processing unit, standardized feedback reception and transmission. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system architecture by providing a standardized interface that manages the complexity of real-time communication and data exchange between components.
4Device complexity
If manual signal adjustment is used, then the system structure is simple, but productivity and testing efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous waveform generation and adjustment rather than discrete manual changes. The processing unit continuously receives feedback signals and generates updated waveform information, enabling uninterrupted adaptive testing that significantly improves productivity while maintaining a manageable system structure through streamlined continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment with automated electronic waveform regeneration. The processing unit electronically generates and adjusts waveform information based on feedback signals, eliminating the need for manual mechanical interventions and thereby improving testing efficiency while keeping the overall system structure relatively simple through electronic automation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosure relates to a system (10) for testing a device-under-test, DUT (20). The system comprises: an output port (11) arranged for being connected to the DUT (20); a waveform generator (13) configured to generate an RF output signal and to forward said RF output signal to the DUT (20) via the output port (11); a communication interface (12) configured to receive a feedback signal from the DUT (20); and a processing unit (14) configured to dynamically generate waveform information based on the received feedback signal, wherein the processing unit (14) is configured to generate the waveform information from stored and/or from real time calculated waveform samples; wherein the waveform generator (13) is configured to adjust the RF output signal based on the waveform information.