Sub-sampled Timing Synchronization in Ultra Wideband Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wideband communication systems face challenges in achieving low power consumption, low cost, and low interference while maintaining high data rates, particularly in sub-sampled ultra wideband systems, where timing synchronization at sub-sampled rates is inefficient due to the need for higher sampling rates in full-band systems.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for timing synchronization in sub-band ultra wideband systems that involve obtaining a coarse estimate of timing offset in the digital domain at a sub-sampled rate and a fine estimate in the analog domain, using cross-correlation with a training sequence designed with a silence period, and correcting timing by transforming the fine estimate into an equivalent phase for analog domain correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If full-band systems use higher sampling rates for timing synchronization, then timing synchronization precision is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the timing synchronization process into two segments: coarse estimation performed in the digital domain at sub-sampled rate, and fine estimation performed in the analog domain at full rate. This segmentation allows the system to use lower sampling rates for the majority of processing while maintaining overall synchronization precision through the complementary fine estimation stage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions between different domains (digital vs. analog) and different sampling rates (sub-sampled vs. full rate) to achieve efficient timing synchronization. By operating in both digital and analog domains with different sampling rates, the system achieves precision without requiring full-band high-rate processing throughout the entire synchronization process.
2Use of energy by moving object
If sub-sampled rate is used for timing synchronization, then power consumption is reduced, but synchronization accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization process is segmented into coarse and fine estimation stages. The coarse estimation at sub-sampled rate provides a preliminary accurate enough estimate for most applications, while the fine estimation stage refines this estimate when higher precision is needed, thus maintaining accuracy while saving power during the majority of the processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs partial action at high rate (only fine estimation in analog domain) and partial action at low rate (coarse estimation in digital domain). This partial application of high-rate processing only where necessary maintains synchronization accuracy while significantly reducing overall power consumption compared to continuous full-rate processing.
3Measurement precision
If analog domain processing is used for fine estimation, then timing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the processing functionally between digital and analog domains. The digital domain handles coarse estimation using standard digital signal processing techniques, while the analog domain handles fine estimation using analog correlation circuits. This functional segmentation allows each domain to operate at its optimal rate and precision level without requiring the entire system to be overly complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the coarse estimation result as an intermediary to guide the fine estimation process in the analog domain. This intermediary approach allows the system to leverage the simplicity of digital processing for initial estimates and only engage the more complex analog processing when necessary for high-precision requirements, thus managing overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of timing synchronization in sub-band based ultra wideband systems, includes obtaining a coarse estimate of an offset in a time domain at a sub-sampled rate, and obtaining a fine estimate of the offset in an analog domain. The method further includes correcting a timing in the analog domain by transforming the fine estimate to an equivalent phase for the correcting.