Shared PLL Output for Orthogonal Multi-Chain Radar Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing power usage and integrating multiple orthogonal millimeter wave radar transmissions, particularly in generating and separating concurrent radar signals with distinct frequencies.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system with multiple transmission chains sharing phase-locked loop (PLL) circuitry, allowing for the generation of multiple orthogonal millimeter wave radar transmissions. This system includes radar signal generation circuitry and transmission chains coupled to shared PLL circuitry, enabling the simultaneous transmission of radar signals with different frequencies and characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate PLL circuitry is used for each transmission chain, then each chain can operate independently with distinct frequencies, but power consumption increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple PLL circuitries into a single shared PLL that can generate multiple orthogonal frequency outputs. This merging approach reduces the total number of PLL circuits needed, thereby lowering power consumption and device complexity while still enabling multiple transmission chains to operate at distinct frequencies through the shared PLL's orthogonal output capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The shared PLL circuit is designed to perform multiple functions by generating orthogonal frequency outputs that can be distributed to multiple transmission chains. This multi-functional design allows a single PLL to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate PLLs, achieving both power efficiency and frequency independence
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate PLL circuitry is used for each transmission chain, then each chain can operate independently with distinct frequencies, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple PLL circuits into one shared PLL that provides orthogonal frequency outputs to multiple transmission chains. This consolidation reduces the total component count and interconnections, simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining the capability for independent frequency operation across chains
Solution Approach 2:
The shared PLL is designed as a universal circuit that can serve multiple transmission chains simultaneously by generating orthogonal frequencies. This multi-functional approach reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for separate dedicated PLL circuits for each chain
3Productivity
If multiple radar transmissions are generated simultaneously, then radar signal processing capability increases, but cross-coupling between signals increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning distinct orthogonal frequency characteristics to different transmission chains. Each chain operates with a unique frequency signature that allows the system to process multiple radar signals simultaneously while minimizing cross-coupling through frequency differentiation and orthogonal signal design
4Productivity
If multiple radar transmissions are generated simultaneously, then radar signal processing capability increases, but signal separation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses local quality by implementing orthogonal frequency modulation across different transmission chains. This approach embeds unique frequency signatures in each signal, enabling the receiver to easily distinguish and separate concurrent radar signals through frequency-based detection and orthogonal correlation techniques
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects described herein include devices and methods for phase lock loop (PLL) output sharing between multiple communication chains in a wireless communication apparatus. In one aspect, an apparatus includes phase locked loop (PLL) circuitry having a shared PLL output, radar signal generation circuitry, a first transmission chain coupled to the shared PLL output and the radar signal generation circuitry, and a second transmission chain coupled to the shared PLL output and the radar signal generation circuitry.