Variable Modulus Algorithm Blind Equalization

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing blind equalization techniques, such as the Constant Modulus Algorithm (CMA), face limitations when dealing with unknown modulation schemes and constellation densities, requiring significant computational resources and relying on approximate knowledge of modulation parameters, which hinders effective equalization across various modulation schemes.

Innovation Solution

The Variable Modulus Algorithm (VMA) iteratively adapts the modulus parameter γ using a stochastic gradient descent algorithm, minimizing a cost function based on the equalized samples, allowing for blind equalization without prior knowledge of the modulation type or constellation order, and converges faster than CMA in similar conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the Constant Modulus Algorithm (CMA) is used for blind equalization, then equalization can be performed without training sequences, but the algorithm requires significant computational resources and relies on approximate knowledge of modulation parameters

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to equalize without training sequenceVSAvoidcomputational requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the fixed modulus parameter γ in CMA into a variable parameter that adapts based on the equalized signal statistics. By computing γ dynamically from the equalized samples using the relationship γ = E[|yn|^4]/E[|yn|^2], the algorithm automatically adjusts to different modulation schemes without requiring prior knowledge of modulation parameters, thereby reducing computational complexity while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The algorithm makes the equalization process self-adapting by having it automatically determine the appropriate modulus parameter from the signal itself. The system uses the equalized output to compute the modulus parameter, creating a self-service mechanism that eliminates the need for external training sequences or prior knowledge of modulation characteristics

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If the Constant Modulus Algorithm (CMA) is used for blind equalization, then equalization can be performed without training sequences, but the convergence speed is slow

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to equalize without training sequenceVSAvoidconvergence time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces feedback by using the equalized signal yn to continuously update the modulus parameter γ. This feedback mechanism allows the algorithm to rapidly adapt to the actual signal characteristics, significantly improving convergence speed compared to the fixed-parameter CMA approach

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The algorithm transitions from a static parameter approach (fixed γ in CMA) to a dynamic parameter approach where γ evolves with the signal statistics. This dynamics enables the algorithm to quickly track and adapt to different modulation schemes, reducing convergence time while maintaining the ability to operate without training sequences

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the Constant Modulus Algorithm (CMA) is used, then equalization can be performed on various modulation schemes, but the residual distortion is high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with different modulation schemesVSAvoidequalization accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

By changing the modulus parameter from a fixed approximate value to a dynamically computed value based on signal statistics, the algorithm achieves higher equalization accuracy. The computed parameter γ = E[|yn|^4]/E[|yn|^2] accurately reflects the actual modulation scheme being used, thereby reducing residual distortion while maintaining compatibility with different modulation types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS9083594B2Mechanism for performing equalization without prior knowledge of modulation type or constellation order
Publication Date: 2015.07.14 NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS CORP
  • US9083594B2 patent drawing
  • US9083594B2 patent drawing
  • US9083594B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system, method and memory medium for performing blind equalization. A block {un} of the baseband samples is received. A function J of a vector f is minimized to determine a minimizer fMIN. The function J depends on vector f according to J(f)=Σ(|yn|2−γ)2. The summation Σ corresponds to a sequence {yn} of equalized samples. The sequence {yn} of equalized samples is related to the block {un} according to a convolution relation {yn}={un}*f. Parameter γ is a current modulus value. The current modulus value γ is updated to equal a ratio of a fourth moment of the sequence {yn} to a second moment of the sequence {yn}. The minimization and parameter update operations are repeated for a series of received blocks of baseband samples. The minimizer fMIN from a last of the repetitions is used to determine final equalized samples.