Coupled VCO Array Phase Separation for Beamforming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Coupled Voltage Controlled Oscillator (VCO) arrays used in Local Oscillator (LO) signal generation for beamforming are limited by injection locking, which restricts the range of differential phase shifts that can be generated, beyond which the phase differences become indeterminable, limiting the beamforming capability.
Innovation Solution
The method involves separating the phase of LO signals generated by individual VCOs through varying voltage levels and frequency multiplying their outputs to increase the range of phase differences, which are then mixed with antenna array signals to introduce differential phase shifts for enhanced beamforming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If injection locking is used to control VCO operating frequency, then frequency stability is improved, but the range of differential phase shifts is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the phase control function by using multiple VCOs operating in parallel, each capable of generating a limited phase range while maintaining injection locking. The combined output of multiple VCOs provides an extended overall phase range that exceeds what a single locked VCO could achieve.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the phase control from a single-dimensional limitation to a multi-dimensional solution by using multiple VCO outputs that can be independently controlled. This allows the system to achieve extended phase ranges through spatial and temporal coordination of multiple oscillators rather than relying on a single VCO's phase capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the range of phase differences is extended beyond injection locking limits, then beamforming flexibility is improved, but phase determinability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediate phase detection and control mechanisms that monitor and maintain precise phase relationships between multiple VCOs. These intermediary systems ensure that even as the overall phase range is extended through multiple oscillators, the phase determinability is preserved through continuous measurement and adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control to maintain phase coherence across multiple VCOs. By continuously monitoring the phase relationships and adjusting control voltages accordingly, the system preserves phase determinability while allowing the VCO array to operate over an extended phase range that provides enhanced beamforming flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If frequency multiplication is applied to increase phase difference range, then beamforming capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves multi-functionality by having the VCO array serve dual purposes: generating stable frequency signals through injection locking while simultaneously providing extended phase control ranges. This eliminates the need for separate frequency multiplication stages, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining enhanced beamforming capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the frequency control and phase control functions into a unified VCO array architecture. By combining multiple VCOs with shared injection locking mechanisms and coordinated phase control, the patent achieves extended beamforming capability without requiring separate frequency multiplication circuits, thereby reducing device complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach extends the range of phase differences, improving beamforming performance, flexibility, and reducing design complexity and costs by allowing wider beamforming angles and potentially lower frequency operation of the VCO array.
Implementation Method 1
Injection locking between the individual VCOs that are part of the coupled VCO array and between the VCOs and the external reference signal
Implementation Method 2
frequency multiplying an output of each individual VCO of the coupled VCO array to increase a range of phase differences
Implementation Method 3
mixing the frequency multiplied outputs of the individual VCOs with signals from antenna elements of an antenna array to introduce differential phase shifts
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes separating phase of Local Oscillator (LO) signals generated by individual Voltage Controlled Oscillators (VCOs) of a coupled VCO array through varying voltage levels of voltage control inputs thereto. The method also includes frequency multiplying an output of each individual VCO of the coupled VCO array to increase a range of phase differences between the phase separated LO signals generated by the individual VCOs. Further, the method includes mixing the frequency multiplied outputs of the individual VCOs with signals from antenna elements of an antenna array to introduce differential phase shifts in signal paths coupled to the antenna elements during performing beamforming with the antenna array.