Single-Point Power Amplifier Voltage Control for Compression

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting power amplifier compression in transmitters are computation-intensive and require access to signals from multiple points, which can be impractical in situations with limited resources or no access to such signals.

Innovation Solution

A method for controlling the supply voltage to a power amplifier that detects a signal at a single point, determines a signal parameter, and adjusts the supply voltage based on comparisons to predetermined limits, such as average power or peak-to-average power ratio, to maintain optimal compression levels and prevent distortion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If two signals from different points in the power amplifier are used for compression detection, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and computation resources increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompression detection accuracyVSAvoidsignal access requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts only the essential information needed for compression detection by using a single signal from one point in the power amplifier, rather than requiring multiple signals from different points. This extraction approach maintains sufficient detection accuracy while reducing system complexity and resource requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The single detected signal serves multiple functions: it is used for both compression detection and for controlling the power supply voltage to the power amplifier. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate signal paths while maintaining effective compression control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If two signals from different points in the power amplifier are used for compression detection, then detection accuracy is improved, but computation resources increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompression detection accuracyVSAvoidcomputation resources
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts only the essential information needed for compression detection by using a single signal from one point in the power amplifier, rather than requiring multiple signals from different points. This extraction approach maintains sufficient detection accuracy while reducing system complexity and resource requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a simplified detection approach that processes only the necessary portion of signal information from a single point, rather than performing exhaustive analysis of multiple signals. This partial action approach achieves sufficient compression detection accuracy with reduced computational burden.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Use of energy by moving object

If power supply voltage is reduced to improve efficiency, then energy consumption decreases, but gain compression and signal distortion increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower amplifier efficiencyVSAvoidsignal distortion
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the detected signal from the power amplifier is continuously monitored for compression conditions. When compression is detected, the power supply voltage is adjusted to prevent distortion, creating a closed-loop control system that balances efficiency and signal quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The power supply voltage to the power amplifier is made dynamic rather than static, allowing real-time adjustment based on detected compression conditions. This dynamic control enables the system to optimize efficiency while preventing distortion by adapting the supply voltage to current operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS7634240B2Method and apparatus for controlling a supply voltage to a power amplifier
Publication Date: 2009.12.15 MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS INC
  • US7634240B2 patent drawing
  • US7634240B2 patent drawing
  • US7634240B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A supply voltage to a power amplifier is controlled. A signal at a single point in a power amplifier is detected. A signal parameter is determined for the detected signal. The signal parameter is compared to at least one predetermined limit. This comparison result is used to determine whether to adjust a supply voltage to the power amplifier. The signal parameter is, for example, an average power or a peak-to-average power ratio.