Shared Antenna Tuning With Performance Feedback for Multi-Band Radios
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing number of antennas in wireless communication devices, particularly driven by 5G networks and multiple GNSS frequency bands, poses challenges in fitting them within the form factor of devices while maintaining optimal performance, as existing technologies struggle to efficiently manage antenna operation and signal processing across different frequency bands.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication system that includes a first sub-system with a radio and a tuner, where a controller adjusts the tuner's characteristics based on operational performance feedback, allowing the system to modify the operation of a second radio, such as a satellite positioning system receiver, by adjusting noise figures or disabling processing of signals that do not meet quality thresholds, thereby optimizing antenna performance across various frequency bands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the number of antennas is increased to support 5G networks and multiple GNSS frequency bands, then the coverage and signal reception capability are improved, but the device form factor becomes more difficult to maintain and the antenna design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple antenna functions into a single shared antenna structure. The antenna system supports both cellular communication (WWAN) and satellite positioning (GNSS) functions using the same physical antenna, thereby reducing the total number of antennas required while maintaining multi-band and multi-function operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The shared antenna is designed to be universal, supporting multiple frequency bands and multiple communication standards simultaneously. The antenna can operate as a cellular antenna for WWAN signals and as a GNSS antenna for satellite positioning signals, eliminating the need for separate dedicated antennas for each function.
2Area of stationary object
If a shared antenna is used for both cellular and GNSS functions, then the device form factor is reduced, but the signal quality and operational performance of individual functions may be degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic switching mechanisms that allow the shared antenna to be configured differently based on the active function. A switch or tuner dynamically connects the antenna to either the cellular radio or the GNSS receiver depending on which function is currently in use, ensuring optimal signal quality for the active function while preventing interference from the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the operational state and signal quality, automatically adjusting the antenna configuration and switching states to maintain optimal performance. The controller receives feedback about which function is active and adjusts the antenna coupling accordingly to preserve signal quality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tuner operates frequently to adjust impedance matching, then the adaptability to different frequency bands is improved, but the power consumption and operational losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous operation, the tuner is activated periodically only when needed for impedance matching adjustments. The system monitors frequency band changes and activates the tuner selectively when transitioning between bands or when impedance degradation is detected, rather than operating continuously, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the tuner's operating characteristics based on detected conditions. The tuner adjusts its impedance matching parameters dynamically in response to frequency band changes or signal quality degradation, enabling the system to adapt to different frequency bands only when necessary, thus balancing adaptability with energy efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless communication system includes: a first sub-system including a first radio and a second radio, each including a transceiver or a receiver; and a second sub-system coupled to the first sub-system and including: a first antenna configured to convey signals; a first tuner coupled to the first antenna; and a controller coupled to the first tuner, the controller being configured to cause the first tuner to adjust a characteristic of the first tuner; where the controller and/or the first tuner is configured to provide, to the first sub-system, an indication of an effect on operational performance of a portion of the second sub-system coupled to the second radio based on operation of the first tuner or the first antenna, or a combination thereof; where the first sub-system is configured to modify operation of the second radio based on the indication of the effect on operational performance.