Vector Signal Analysis with Iterative Reference Signal Correction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vector signal analysis (VSA) methods face challenges in providing accurate reference signals in low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) environments, leading to incorrect measurements due to undetected detection errors, as the actual bit sequence of the measurement signal is often unknown or insufficiently known.

Innovation Solution

A measurement device and method that iteratively adapts a reference signal based on repetitive measurements, using deterministic and statistical corrections, to ensure accuracy even in low SNR conditions, without requiring external knowledge of the bit sequence.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the reference signal is extracted from the measurement signal, then the VSA measurement can be performed, but detection errors occur in low SNR environments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic reference signal extractionVSAvoidreference signal accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements an iterative feedback mechanism where the reference signal is continuously refined by comparing measurement signal repetitions. The processor compares multiple repetitions, identifies discrepancies, and adjusts the reference signal accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that progressively improves reference signal accuracy without requiring external input

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary actions by collecting and storing multiple repetitions of the measurement signal before final reference signal determination. This preliminary data accumulation allows the system to statistically analyze patterns and establish an accurate reference signal before actual VSA measurements are performed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If detection errors are corrected using known bit sequence, then reference signal accuracy improves, but the method becomes inapplicable when bit sequence is unknown

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereference signal accuracyVSAvoidapplicability without external knowledge
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by autonomously determining and refining its own reference signal without requiring external assistance. The processor uses the measurement signal repetitions themselves to identify and correct errors, making the system self-sufficient and applicable in scenarios where external bit sequence knowledge is unavailable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a single-dimension approach (single measurement) to a multi-dimensional approach by utilizing multiple repetitions of the measurement signal. This dimensional expansion provides additional data points for error detection and correction, enabling accurate reference signal establishment without external knowledge

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Measurement precision

If multiple repetitions are used for reference signal determination, then detection accuracy improves, but measurement time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereference signal detection accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by using just enough repetitions to achieve the required reference signal accuracy threshold. The iterative comparison process can be stopped once sufficient accuracy is attained, avoiding unnecessary time consumption from excessive repetitions while still achieving adequate detection precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentEP4604424A1Measurement device and method for performing a vector signal analysis
Publication Date: 2025.08.20 ROHDE & SCHWARZ GMBH & CO KG
  • EP4604424A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4604424A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4604424A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a measurement device for performing a vector signal analysis. The measurement device comprises: an input port (11) which is arranged for being connected to a device under test, DUT; wherein the input port (11) is configured to receive a repetitive measurement signal from the DUT; and a processor (12) which is configured to determine a reference signal based on at least one repetition of the received measurement signal; wherein the processor (12) is configured to iteratively adapt the determined reference signal over at least one further repetition of the measurement signal.