Multi-antenna test system, method and device and storage medium
By designing a multi -antenna test system that integrates vector network analyzers, turning tables, rotating devices, and channel switching control devices, the problems that cannot test multiple antenna and multiple frequency points in the existing technology can be solved. , Accurate multi -channel test.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202411507113.0
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-10-28
- Publication Date
- 2025-01-28
AI Technical Summary
The prior art cannot test multiple antenna elements and multiple frequency points simultaneously, resulting in low antenna testing efficiency.
A test system for multiple antenna, including controlling computers, vector network analyzers, turntable controllers, turntables, channel switching control devices, rotating devices, and launch antennas. Data collects at the same time.
The system can quickly switch the channels for the antenna to be tested, evaluate the interoperability effect of the antenna array, beam forming ability and overall performance, improve the test accuracy and efficiency, and reduce the test cost.
Smart Images

Figure CN119375565A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present application relates to the field of antenna testing technology, and more specifically, to a testing system, method, device and storage medium for a multi-element antenna. Background Art
[0002] At present, the requirements for antenna products are getting higher and higher, and the integration of antenna functions is getting higher and higher. Multiple different antennas are integrated on one product. At the same time, due to the requirements of anti-interference performance indicators, the antenna adopts a multi-element design, which leads to multiple antenna elements in one antenna product. Antennas are usually installed on the bulkhead. The antenna elements are affected by the mutual coupling between the bulkhead, the mounting structure and the array elements. Each antenna element needs to be tested separately.
[0003] Chinese patent CN202310448209.3 discloses an antenna testing system, comprising a box, a carrying device, at least one probe device, a signal measuring device and a mobile device. The box is used as a shielding body. The carrying device can only install and test one antenna element at a time, and cannot realize switching testing of multiple antenna elements, nor can it realize simultaneous data collection of multiple frequency points.
[0004] Chinese patent CN202111452000.1 antenna testing method and system, the test system can only install and test one antenna element at a time, cannot realize switching testing of multiple antenna elements, and cannot realize simultaneous data collection of multiple frequency points.
[0005] In order to ensure the accuracy of antenna test data, antenna products must be tested for performance indicators in a darkroom environment. The antenna needs to be installed on a turntable for scanning testing during the darkroom test. The signal strength received at the corresponding frequency point at each angle is obtained after scanning for one circle, and then the directional diagram of the antenna at the frequency point is obtained through processing. There are many frequency points during the antenna test, and the number of antenna elements is large. It also takes a lot of time to replace the antenna elements, which leads to low antenna test efficiency. Summary of the invention
[0006] In response to at least one defect or improvement need in the prior art, the present invention provides a testing system, method, device and storage medium for a multi-element antenna, which is used to solve the problem that the prior art can only install and test one antenna element at a time, cannot implement switching testing of multiple antenna elements, and cannot realize simultaneous data collection of multiple frequency points. When there are many frequency points during antenna testing, it takes a lot of time to replace the antenna element, which leads to low antenna testing efficiency.
[0007] To achieve the above object, according to a first aspect of the present invention, a test system for a multi-element antenna is provided, comprising: a control computer, a vector network analyzer, a turntable controller, a turntable, a channel switching control device, a rotating device, and a transmitting antenna; the control computer is respectively connected to the vector network analyzer, the turntable controller, and the channel switching control device; the vector network analyzer is respectively connected to the transmitting antenna and the antenna to be tested; the turntable controller is respectively connected to the turntable and the rotating device;
[0008] The vector network analyzer is used to transmit radio frequency signals to the transmitting antenna and receive test data of the antenna to be tested;
[0009] The control computer is used to process and analyze the test data and store the analysis results;
[0010] The turntable controller is used to control the rotation of the turntable and the rotation of the rotating device in response to the control signal of the control computer;
[0011] The transmitting antenna is used to send a radio frequency signal to the antenna to be tested in a preset polarization mode;
[0012] The turntable is used to install the antenna to be tested including at least one antenna element, and rotate within a preset angle range under the control of the turntable controller;
[0013] The rotating device is used to install the transmitting antenna and switch the polarization mode of the transmitting antenna under the control of the turntable controller;
[0014] The channel switching control device is used to switch the channel of the antenna to be tested to test other antenna elements.
[0015] In a possible implementation, the transmitting antenna, the antenna to be tested, the rotating device, the turntable and the channel switching device are arranged in a dark room to prevent interference from outdoor electromagnetic signals and leakage of indoor electromagnetic signals.
[0016] In a possible implementation, the turntable controller includes a motor drive module and a position sensor; the motor drive module is used to drive the motor movement in the turntable and the rotating device; the position sensor feeds back the turntable position information and the rotating device position information in real time.
[0017] In a possible implementation, the turntable includes a bearing platform, an angle encoder and a rotating motor; the bearing platform is used to install the antenna to be tested; the angle encoder is used to determine the real-time angle data of the turntable; and the rotating motor is used to rotate under the action of the motor drive module.
[0018] In one possible implementation, the rotating device includes a polarization selector, a locking mechanism and a rotating motor; the polarization selector is used to switch the polarization direction of the transmitting antenna; the locking mechanism is used to fix the position of the transmitting antenna when switching the polarization mode; and the rotating motor is used to rotate under the action of the motor drive module.
[0019] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for testing a multi-element antenna is also provided, based on any possible implementation as described above, including:
[0020] The rotating device is controlled to rotate by a turntable controller so that the transmitting antenna transmits the radio frequency signal generated by the vector network analyzer in a preset polarization direction;
[0021] The turntable controller controls the turntable to rotate so that the receiving antenna receives the radio frequency signal at a preset angle;
[0022] The test data generated by the receiving antenna is sent to the control computer through the vector network analyzer for processing and analysis, and the analysis results are stored;
[0023] After the control computer receives the test data, the channel of the antenna to be tested is switched through the channel switching control device to test other antenna elements.
[0024] In a possible implementation, the method further includes setting a test frequency, a rotation angle of a turntable, and a number of test channels of an antenna element according to parameter data of the antenna to be tested.
[0025] In a possible implementation, the method further includes initializing the transmission power of the vector network analyzer, the initial angle of the turntable, and the initial polarization direction of the rotating device.
[0026] According to the third aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a testing device for a multi-element antenna, which comprises at least one processing unit and at least one storage unit, wherein the storage unit stores a computer program, and when the computer program is executed by the processing unit, the processing unit executes the steps of any one of the above-mentioned methods for testing a multi-element antenna.
[0027] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a storage medium storing a computer program executable by an access authentication device, wherein when the computer program runs on the access authentication device, the access authentication device executes the steps of any one of the above-mentioned methods for testing a multi-element antenna.
[0028] In general, the above technical solutions conceived by the present invention can achieve the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art:
[0029] The present invention provides a test system for a multi-element antenna. The channel switching control device enables the system to easily switch the channel of the antenna to be tested and test other antenna elements. Through multi-channel testing, the system can evaluate the key indicators of the antenna array, such as mutual coupling effect, beamforming capability and overall performance. The system integrates key components such as a vector network analyzer, a turntable, a rotating device and a channel switching control device, and can fully cover the test requirements of the multi-element antenna in terms of frequency response, directivity, polarization characteristics and multi-channel performance. Through the cooperation of the turntable and the rotating device, the system can simulate the different directions and polarization states of the antenna in actual applications to ensure the comprehensiveness and accuracy of the test results. As the core test equipment, the vector network analyzer has high-precision measurement capabilities and can accurately capture the performance parameters of the antenna under different conditions. The automated test process reduces the errors and uncertainties of manual operations and improves the test accuracy. At the same time, automated testing also significantly improves the test efficiency, shortens the test cycle, and reduces the test cost. The control computer is responsible for processing and analyzing the test data and storing the analysis results, providing users with detailed historical data records to facilitate performance comparison and trend analysis. Through data analysis, users can gain an in-depth understanding of the performance of the antenna under different conditions, thereby optimizing the antenna design and improving the antenna performance. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application, the drawings required for use in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying creative work.
[0031] Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of a multi-element antenna testing system provided by the present invention;
[0032] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a flow chart of an embodiment of a method for testing a multi-element antenna provided by the present invention;
[0033] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of a testing device for a multi-element antenna provided in an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0034] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of the present invention more clearly understood, the present invention is further described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. In addition, the technical features involved in the various embodiments of the present invention described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.
[0035] The terms "first", "second", "third", etc. in the specification and claims of this application and the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order. In addition, the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions. For example, a process, method, system, product or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but optionally includes steps or units that are not listed, or optionally includes other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products or devices.
[0036] The present invention provides a testing system, method, device and storage medium for a multi-element antenna, which are described below respectively.
[0037] See also Figure 1 , Figure 1 The present invention is a schematic diagram of a structure of an embodiment of a test system for a multi-element antenna provided by the present invention. In a specific embodiment of the present invention, a test system for a multi-element antenna is disclosed, comprising: a control computer 100, a vector network analyzer 200, a turntable controller 300, a turntable 400, a channel switching control device 500, a rotating device 600 and a transmitting antenna 700; the control computer 100 is respectively connected to the vector network analyzer 200, the turntable controller 300 and the channel switching control device 500; the vector network analyzer 200 is respectively connected to the transmitting antenna 700 and the antenna to be tested 800; the turntable controller 300 is respectively connected to the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600;
[0038] The vector network analyzer 200 is used to transmit a radio frequency signal to the transmitting antenna 700 and receive test data of the antenna to be tested 800;
[0039] The control computer 100 is used to process and analyze the test data and store the analysis results;
[0040] The turntable controller 300 is used to control the turntable 400 to rotate and the rotating device 600 to rotate in response to the control signal of the control computer 100;
[0041] The transmitting antenna 700 is used to send a radio frequency signal to the antenna under test 800 in a preset polarization mode;
[0042] The turntable 400 is used to install the antenna 800 to be tested including at least one antenna element, and rotate within a preset angle range under the control of the turntable controller 300;
[0043] The rotating device 600 is used to install the transmitting antenna 700 and switch the polarization mode of the transmitting antenna 700 under the control of the turntable controller 300;
[0044] The channel switching control device 500 is used to switch the channel of the antenna to be tested 800 to test other antenna elements.
[0045] In the above embodiment, the test system for the multi-element antenna is centered on the control computer 100, and establishes a stable and efficient connection with the vector network analyzer 200, the turntable controller 300 and the channel switching control device 500 through a high-speed data interface, which not only ensures the instant transmission of control instructions, but also ensures real-time feedback of test data, providing a solid foundation for the efficient operation of the system.
[0046] The vector network analyzer 200 can not only send stable and accurate RF signals to the transmitting antenna 700, but also receive and accurately measure the test data fed back by the antenna 800 under test. These data cover key performance indicators such as amplitude, phase, and frequency response, providing strong support for the comprehensive evaluation of antenna performance. Its transmitting port is connected to the transmitting antenna 700, and its receiving port is connected to the antenna 800 under test. The RF signal is transmitted through the transmitting antenna 700. After the antenna 800 under test receives the signal, the test data is transmitted to the receiving port of the vector network analyzer 200 through the RF cable.
[0047] The control computer 100 receives the test data from the vector network analyzer 200, and uses advanced algorithms to perform in-depth mining and precise analysis, thereby revealing the performance characteristics and potential problems of the antenna under different conditions. At the same time, the control computer 100 is also responsible for storing the analysis results to facilitate the user to conduct subsequent performance comparison and trend analysis.
[0048] The turntable controller 300 accurately responds to the control signal of the control computer 100, driving the turntable 400 to rotate smoothly within a preset angle range. This design enables the antenna 800 to be tested to receive RF signal tests in different directions, so as to comprehensively evaluate its directional performance. At the same time, the turntable controller 300 is also responsible for controlling the rotation of the rotating device 600 to achieve flexible switching of the polarization mode of the transmitting antenna 700.
[0049] The turntable 400 is a sturdy and precise platform specially used for installing the antenna 800 to be tested which includes at least one antenna element. Under the precise control of the turntable controller 300, it can ensure that the antenna 800 to be tested remains stable during the test process, while achieving all-round test coverage, which not only improves the accuracy of the test, but also greatly reduces the errors caused by human operation.
[0050] The rotating device 600 is installed on the transmitting antenna 700. Through the instructions of the turntable controller 300, the rotating device 600 can quickly and accurately switch the polarization mode of the transmitting antenna 700, which is convenient for evaluating the performance of the antenna under different polarization conditions and helps to reveal the adaptability of the antenna in a complex electromagnetic environment.
[0051] The channel switching control device 500 further enhances the testing capability of the system. Under the instruction of the control computer 100, the channel switching control device 500 can quickly and accurately switch the different channels of the antenna to be tested 800, so as to test other antenna elements one by one. This not only improves the testing efficiency, but also ensures that each antenna element can be fully evaluated, providing strong support for the overall performance optimization of the antenna array.
[0052] The transmitting antenna 700 amplifies the microwave signal (radio frequency signal) emitted by the vector network analyzer 200, and transmits it to the antenna to be tested 800 in a preset polarization mode. The use of a high-performance transmitting antenna 700 improves the stability and accuracy of the transmitting antenna 700, thereby ensuring the reliability of the test results and ensuring the smooth progress of the test process.
[0053] Compared with the prior art, the present embodiment provides a test system for a multi-element antenna. The channel switching control device 500 enables the system to easily switch the channel of the antenna 800 to be tested and test other antenna elements. Through multi-channel testing, the system can evaluate the key indicators such as the mutual coupling effect, beamforming capability and overall performance of the antenna array. The system integrates key components such as the vector network analyzer 200, the turntable 400, the rotating device 600 and the channel switching control device 500, and can fully cover the test requirements of the multi-element antenna in terms of frequency response, directivity, polarization characteristics and multi-channel performance. Through the cooperation of the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600, the system can simulate different directions and polarization states of the antenna in actual applications to ensure the comprehensiveness and accuracy of the test results. As the core test equipment, the vector network analyzer 200 has high-precision measurement capabilities and can accurately capture the performance parameters of the antenna under different conditions. The automated test process reduces the errors and uncertainties of human operation and improves the test accuracy. At the same time, automated testing also significantly improves the test efficiency, shortens the test cycle, and reduces the test cost. The control computer 100 is responsible for processing and analyzing the test data and storing the analysis results, providing users with detailed historical data records to facilitate performance comparison and trend analysis. Through data analysis, users can gain an in-depth understanding of the performance of the antenna under different conditions, thereby optimizing the antenna design and improving the antenna performance.
[0054] In some embodiments of the present invention, the transmitting antenna 700, the antenna to be tested 800, the rotating device 600, the turntable 400 and the channel switching device are arranged in a dark room to prevent outdoor electromagnetic signal interference and indoor electromagnetic signal leakage.
[0055] In the above embodiment, in order to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the test, the transmitting antenna 700, the antenna to be tested 800, the rotating device 600, the turntable 400 and the channel switching device are carefully arranged in a special darkroom. This darkroom is a closed space that has been professionally designed and constructed. Its main function is to prevent interference from outdoor electromagnetic signals and avoid leakage of indoor electromagnetic signals, thereby providing users with a pure and interference-free test environment.
[0056] In the darkroom, the transmitting antenna 700 sends a radio frequency signal to the antenna under test 800 in a preset polarization mode. Due to the shielding effect of the darkroom, external electromagnetic signals cannot interfere with this process, thereby ensuring the reliability of the test results. At the same time, the antenna under test 800 can be rotated within a preset angle range driven by the turntable 400 to comprehensively evaluate its directional performance.
[0057] The design of the darkroom fully considers the use of electromagnetic shielding and absorbing materials to ensure the purity of the electromagnetic field inside it. The materials of the darkroom can effectively absorb or reflect electromagnetic signals that penetrate from the outside, while preventing the electromagnetic signals generated during the test from leaking into the external environment. This not only improves the accuracy of the test, but also ensures the safety and controllability of the test process.
[0058] In some embodiments of the present invention, the turntable controller 300 includes a motor drive module and a position sensor; the motor drive module is used to drive the motor movement in the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600; the position sensor feeds back the position information of the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600 in real time.
[0059] In the above embodiment, the motor drive module is responsible for receiving instructions from the control computer 100, and driving the motors in the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600 to move accordingly. The motor drive module adopts advanced motor control technology, which can realize accurate control of the motor speed, direction and movement time, thereby ensuring that the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600 can move according to the preset trajectory and speed. At the same time, the motor drive module also has safety functions such as overload protection and short circuit protection to ensure the safety and stability of the test process.
[0060] The position sensor uses high-precision and high-sensitivity sensing technology, which can accurately and real-timely feedback the position information of the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600, which is crucial for the precise control of the test process. Through the position sensor, the control computer 100 can understand the motion state of the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600 in real time, so as to make timely adjustments and optimizations as needed. At the same time, the position sensor can also provide an important reference for subsequent test data analysis and processing.
[0061] During the test, the motor drive module and the position sensor work closely together to ensure the precise movement of the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600. When the control computer 100 issues an instruction, the motor drive module will immediately start the motor to drive the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600 to move. At the same time, the position sensor will provide real-time feedback of the position information of the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600 for monitoring and adjustment by the control computer 100. The control computer 100 will perform real-time closed-loop control based on the feedback information of the position sensor to ensure that the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600 can move precisely according to the preset trajectory and speed.
[0062] In some embodiments of the present invention, the turntable 400 includes a carrying platform, an angle encoder and a rotating motor; the carrying platform is used to install the antenna 800 to be tested; the angle encoder is used to determine the real-time angle data of the turntable 400; and the rotating motor is used to rotate under the action of the motor drive module.
[0063] In the above embodiment, the bearing platform is the main structure of the turntable 400, and is made of high-strength and high-stability materials to ensure that it can withstand the weight of the antenna 800 to be tested and various mechanical challenges during the test. The design of the bearing platform also fully considers the installation requirements of the antenna 800 to be tested, and provides a precise installation interface and positioning mechanism to ensure that the antenna 800 to be tested can be firmly and accurately installed on the platform, which not only improves the stability of the test, but also provides a reliable basis for subsequent test data analysis and processing.
[0064] The angle encoder uses high-precision, high-resolution sensing technology, which can measure and feedback the rotation angle data of the turntable 400 in real time and accurately, and is essential for the precise control of the test process. Through the angle encoder, the control computer 100 can understand the rotation state of the turntable 400 in real time, so as to make timely adjustments and optimizations as needed. At the same time, the angle encoder can also provide an important reference basis for subsequent test data analysis and processing, helping users to have a deeper understanding of the performance characteristics of the antenna 800 to be tested.
[0065] The rotating motor uses advanced motor technology and can receive instructions from the motor drive module and drive the turntable 400 to rotate accordingly. The design of the rotating motor fully considers various requirements during the test, including speed, direction, movement time, etc., to ensure that the turntable 400 can move accurately according to the preset trajectory and speed. At the same time, the rotating motor also has safety functions such as overload protection and short circuit protection to ensure the safety and stability of the test process.
[0066] During the test, the bearing platform, the angle encoder and the rotating motor work closely together to ensure the precise installation and stable rotation of the antenna 800 to be tested. When the antenna 800 to be tested is installed on the bearing platform, the angle encoder will start to measure and feedback the rotation angle data of the turntable 400 in real time. At the same time, the rotating motor starts to rotate under the action of the motor drive module, driving the bearing platform and the antenna 800 to be tested to rotate accurately. The control computer 100 will perform real-time closed-loop control according to the feedback data of the angle encoder to ensure that the turntable 400 can move accurately according to the preset trajectory and speed.
[0067] In some embodiments of the present invention, the rotating device 600 includes a polarization selector, a locking mechanism and a rotating motor; the polarization selector is used to switch the polarization direction of the transmitting antenna 700; the locking mechanism is used to fix the position of the transmitting antenna 700 when switching the polarization mode; the rotating motor is used to rotate under the action of the motor drive module.
[0068] In the above embodiment, the polarization selector is a key component in the rotating device 600, which adopts a mechanical or electronic switching mechanism and can quickly and accurately switch the polarization direction of the transmitting antenna 700 according to different test requirements. It is very important for evaluating the performance of the antenna 800 under different polarization conditions because it can simulate various polarization conditions that may be encountered in a real communication environment.
[0069] When the polarization selector switches the polarization mode, the locking mechanism is responsible for fixing the position of the transmitting antenna 700 to prevent it from shaking or shifting during the switching process, which not only ensures the accuracy of the test, but also protects the transmitting antenna 700 from the risk of potential damage. The locking mechanism uses high-strength materials and a precise locking mechanism to ensure that the position of the transmitting antenna 700 can be firmly fixed when the polarization mode is switched.
[0070] The rotating motor receives instructions from the motor drive module and drives the rotating device 600 to rotate accordingly. The design of the rotating motor fully considers various requirements during the test, including speed, direction, movement time, etc., to ensure that the rotating device 600 can move accurately according to the preset trajectory and speed. At the same time, the rotating motor also has safety functions such as overload protection and short circuit protection to ensure the safety and stability of the test process.
[0071] During the test, the polarization selector, the locking mechanism and the rotating motor work closely together to achieve the precise switching and stable rotation of the polarization direction of the transmitting antenna 700. When the polarization direction of the transmitting antenna 700 needs to be switched, the polarization selector will quickly and accurately switch to the target polarization mode, and the locking mechanism will firmly fix the position of the transmitting antenna 700. Subsequently, the rotating motor starts to rotate under the action of the motor drive module, driving the rotating device 600 and the transmitting antenna 700 to perform precise rotational motion. The control computer 100 will perform real-time closed-loop control according to the test requirements to ensure that the rotating device 600 can perform precise motion according to the preset trajectory and speed.
[0072] See also Figure 2 , Figure 2 The present invention is a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for testing a multi-element antenna provided by the present invention. According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for testing a multi-element antenna is also provided, based on any one of the above embodiments, including:
[0073] S201, controlling the rotating device to rotate by a turntable controller so that the transmitting antenna transmits the radio frequency signal generated by the vector network analyzer in a preset polarization direction;
[0074] S202, controlling the turntable to rotate by a turntable controller so that the receiving antenna receives the radio frequency signal at a preset angle;
[0075] S203, sending the test data generated by the receiving antenna to the control computer for processing and analysis through the vector network analyzer, and storing the analysis results;
[0076] S204, after the control computer receives the test data, the channel of the antenna to be tested is switched through the channel switching control device to test other antenna elements.
[0077] In the above embodiment, first, the rotating device 600 needs to be operated by the turntable controller 300, and the polarization selector in the rotating device 600 will switch the polarization of the transmitting antenna 700 according to the preset polarization direction. At the same time, the locking mechanism will ensure that the transmitting antenna 700 remains stable when switching the polarization direction, and will not affect the accuracy of the test due to shaking or deviation. Once the polarization direction is set, the rotating motor will start to rotate under the action of the motor drive module, driving the transmitting antenna 700 to perform the necessary rotational movement to ensure that the RF signal can evenly cover the test area. At this time, the vector network analyzer 200 will generate an RF signal and transmit it through the transmitting antenna 700 in a preset polarization direction.
[0078] While the transmitting antenna 700 transmits the RF signal, the turntable 400 needs to be controlled by the turntable controller 300, and the turntable 400 will rotate according to the preset angle range to ensure that the receiving antenna can receive the RF signals from different directions. During this process, the angle encoder will measure and feedback the rotation angle data of the turntable 400 in real time for the control computer 100 to monitor and adjust. At the same time, the carrying platform will firmly support the receiving antenna to ensure that it can accurately receive the RF signal.
[0079] When the receiving antenna receives the RF signal, it generates corresponding test data, which will be captured by the vector network analyzer 200 and sent to the control computer 100 for processing and analysis. The control computer 100 will process the test data according to the preset test parameters and algorithms to evaluate the performance characteristics of the antenna under test 800. After processing, the analysis results will be stored in the computer for subsequent data analysis and report generation.
[0080] After completing the test of one antenna element, it is necessary to switch the channel of the antenna to be tested 800 through the channel switching control device 500 so as to test other antenna elements. The channel switching control device 500 will quickly and accurately switch to the target channel according to the instructions of the control computer 100. Subsequently, the test process will be repeated until all antenna elements have been tested.
[0081] It should be noted that the preset polarization direction can be either the horizontal polarization direction or the vertical polarization direction. For each antenna element, the horizontal polarization direction and the vertical polarization direction need to be tested separately. If other antenna elements need to be tested later, the horizontal polarization direction and the vertical polarization direction of the other antenna elements are tested separately after switching.
[0082] In some embodiments of the present invention, the test frequency, the rotation angle of the turntable 400, and the number of test channels of the antenna element are set according to the parameter data of the antenna 800 to be tested.
[0083] In the above embodiment, before the test starts, it is necessary to set the test conditions according to the specific parameter data of the antenna 800 to be tested. These parameter data may include the antenna's operating frequency band, polarization mode, gain, beam width, etc. Based on these parameter data, the test frequency, the rotation angle range of the turntable 400 and the number of test channels of the antenna element can be determined.
[0084] The test frequency points may be selected from a series of representative frequency points for testing according to the working frequency band of the antenna 800 to be tested. These frequency points should be able to cover the working frequency band of the antenna and reflect the performance characteristics of the antenna at different frequencies.
[0085] The rotation angle of the turntable 400 can be an angle range, which can be determined according to the beam width of the antenna 800 to be tested and the test requirements. If the beam width of the antenna is narrow, a larger rotation angle range is required to ensure that RF signals from different directions can be received.
[0086] According to the number and layout of antenna elements in the antenna 800 to be tested, the number of test channels for the antenna elements to be tested can be determined. Each channel corresponds to an antenna element. By switching channels, each antenna element can be tested in turn.
[0087] In some embodiments of the present invention, the transmission power of the vector network analyzer 200 , the initial angle of the turntable 400 , and the initial polarization direction of the rotating device 600 are also initialized.
[0088] In the above embodiment, before the test starts, the test equipment needs to be initialized and set up, and the equipment includes the vector network analyzer 200 , the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600 .
[0089] The transmitting power of the vector network analyzer 200 needs to be set to ensure that it can generate a radio frequency signal of sufficient strength to drive the transmitting antenna 700. At the same time, the receiving sensitivity needs to be set to ensure that the test data from the receiving antenna can be accurately received.
[0090] The initial angle of the turntable 400 should be set to a known and stable value so that the rotation angle data of the turntable 400 can be accurately measured and recorded during the test.
[0091] The initial polarization direction of the rotating device 600 should be determined according to the test requirements. If the test needs to evaluate the performance of the antenna under different polarization directions, the rotating device 600 should be able to switch to the corresponding polarization direction.
[0092] See also Figure 3 , Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of a test device for a multi-element antenna provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Based on the above-mentioned test method for a multi-element antenna, the present invention also provides a test device for a multi-element antenna, which can be a computing device such as a mobile terminal, a desktop computer, a notebook, a PDA, and a server. The test device 900 for a multi-element antenna includes a processor 910, a memory 920, and a display 990.
[0093] In some embodiments, the memory 920 may be an internal storage unit of the test device 900 for multiple antennas, such as a hard disk or memory of the test device 900 for multiple antennas. In other embodiments, the memory 920 may also be an external storage device of the test device 900 for multiple antennas, such as a plug-in hard disk, a smart memory card (Smart Media Card, SMC), a secure digital (Secure Digital, SD) card, a flash card (Flash Card), etc. equipped on the test device 900 for multiple antennas. Further, the memory 920 may also include both an internal storage unit and an external storage device of the test device 900 for multiple antennas. The memory 920 is used to store application software and various types of data installed in the test device 900 for multiple antennas, such as program codes of the test device 900 for multiple antennas. The memory 920 may also be used to temporarily store data that has been output or is to be output. In one embodiment, the test program 940 for multiple antennas is stored on the memory 920, and the test program 940 for multiple antennas can be executed by the processor 910, thereby realizing the test method for multiple antennas in various embodiments of the present application.
[0094] In some embodiments, the processor 910 may be a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor or other data processing chip, used to run program codes or process data stored in the memory 920, such as executing a test method for a multi-element antenna.
[0095] In some embodiments, the display 990 can be an LED display, a liquid crystal display, a touch-sensitive liquid crystal display, an OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) touch device, etc. The display 990 is used to display information on the multi-element antenna test device 900 and to display a visual user interface. The components 910-990 of the multi-element antenna test device 900 communicate with each other via a system bus.
[0096] In one embodiment, when the processor 910 executes the multi-antenna testing program 940 in the memory 920 , the steps in the multi-antenna testing method described above are implemented.
[0097] In summary, a test system for a multi-element antenna, the channel switching control device 500 enables the system to easily switch the channel of the antenna 800 to be tested, and test other antenna elements. Through multi-channel testing, the system can evaluate the key indicators of the antenna array such as mutual coupling effect, beamforming capability and overall performance. The system integrates key components such as the vector network analyzer 200, the turntable 400, the rotating device 600 and the channel switching control device 500, and can fully cover the test requirements of the multi-element antenna in terms of frequency response, directivity, polarization characteristics and multi-channel performance. Through the cooperation of the turntable 400 and the rotating device 600, the system can simulate the different directions and polarization states of the antenna in actual applications to ensure the comprehensiveness and accuracy of the test results. As the core test equipment, the vector network analyzer 200 has high-precision measurement capabilities and can accurately capture the performance parameters of the antenna under different conditions. The automated test process reduces the errors and uncertainties of human operation and improves the test accuracy. At the same time, automated testing also significantly improves the test efficiency, shortens the test cycle, and reduces the test cost. The control computer 100 is responsible for processing and analyzing the test data and storing the analysis results, providing users with detailed historical data records to facilitate performance comparison and trend analysis. Through data analysis, users can gain an in-depth understanding of the performance of the antenna under different conditions, thereby optimizing the antenna design and improving the antenna performance.
[0098] The present application also provides a computer-readable storage medium on which a computer program is stored, and when the program is executed by a processor, the steps of the above method are implemented. The computer-readable storage medium may include, but is not limited to, any type of disk, including a floppy disk, an optical disk, a DVD, a CD-ROM, a micro drive, and a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, a RAM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, a DRAM, a VRAM, a flash memory device, a magnetic card or an optical card, a nanosystem (including a molecular memory IC), or any type of medium or device suitable for storing instructions and / or data.
[0099] It should be noted that, for the aforementioned method embodiments, for the sake of simplicity, they are all expressed as a series of action combinations, but those skilled in the art should be aware that the present application is not limited by the described order of actions, because according to the present application, certain steps can be performed in other orders or simultaneously. Secondly, those skilled in the art should also be aware that the embodiments described in the specification are all preferred embodiments, and the actions and modules involved are not necessarily required by the present application.
[0100] In the above embodiments, the description of each embodiment has its own emphasis. For parts that are not described in detail in a certain embodiment, reference can be made to the relevant descriptions of other embodiments.
[0101] In the several embodiments provided in the present application, it should be understood that the disclosed devices can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are only schematic, such as the division of the units, which is only a logical function division. There may be other division methods in actual implementation, such as multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. Another point is that the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed can be through some service interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection of devices or units can be electrical or other forms.
[0102] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separated, and the components shown as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed on multiple network units. Some or all of the units may be selected according to actual needs to achieve the purpose of the solution of this embodiment.
[0103] In addition, each functional unit in each embodiment of the present application may be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit may exist physically separately, or two or more units may be integrated into one unit. The above-mentioned integrated unit may be implemented in the form of hardware or in the form of software functional units.
[0104] If the integrated unit is implemented in the form of a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable memory. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the present application is essentially or the part that contributes to the prior art or all or part of the technical solution can be embodied in the form of a software product, and the computer software product is stored in a memory, including a number of instructions to enable a computer device (which can be a personal computer, server or network device, etc.) to perform all or part of the steps of the method described in each embodiment of the present application. The aforementioned memory includes: U disk, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), mobile hard disk, disk or optical disk and other media that can store program code.
[0105] A person of ordinary skill in the art can understand that all or part of the steps in the various methods of the above embodiments can be completed by instructing related hardware through a program, and the program can be stored in a computer-readable memory, which can include: a flash drive, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk or an optical disk, etc.
[0106] The above is only an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, and the scope of the present disclosure cannot be limited thereto. That is, any equivalent changes and modifications made according to the teachings of the present disclosure are still within the scope of the present disclosure. After considering the specification and practicing the disclosure here, those skilled in the art will easily think of the implementation scheme of the present disclosure. This application is intended to cover any modification, use or adaptation of the present disclosure, which follows the general principles of the present disclosure and includes common knowledge or customary technical means in the technical field not recorded in the present disclosure. The description and examples are regarded as exemplary only, and the scope and spirit of the present disclosure are defined by the claims.
[0107] The technical features of the above embodiments may be combined arbitrarily. To make the description concise, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.
[0108] It will be easily understood by those skilled in the art that the above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included in the protection scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A multi-element antenna testing system, characterized in that: include: Control computer, vector network analyzer, turntable controller, turntable, channel switching control device, rotating device and transmitting antenna; The control computer is connected to the vector network analyzer, the turntable controller and the channel switching control device respectively; the vector network analyzer is connected to the transmitting antenna and the antenna to be tested respectively; the turntable controller is connected to the turntable and the rotating device respectively; Wherein, the vector network analyzer is used to transmit a radio frequency signal to the transmitting antenna and receive test data of the antenna to be tested; The control computer is used to process and analyze the test data and store the analysis results; The turntable controller is used to control the rotation of the turntable and the rotation of the rotating device in response to the control signal of the control computer; The transmitting antenna is used to send the radio frequency signal to the antenna to be tested in a preset polarization mode; The turntable is used to install an antenna to be tested including at least one antenna element, and rotates within a preset angle range under the control of the turntable controller; The rotating device is used to install the transmitting antenna and switch the polarization mode of the transmitting antenna under the control of the turntable controller; The channel switching control device is used to switch the channel of the antenna to be tested to test other antenna elements.
2. The multi-element antenna testing system as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The transmitting antenna, the antenna to be tested, the rotating device, the turntable and the channel switching device are arranged in a dark room to prevent outdoor electromagnetic signal interference and indoor electromagnetic signal leakage.
3. The multi-element antenna testing system as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The turntable controller includes a motor drive module and a position sensor; the motor drive module is used to drive the motor movement in the turntable and the rotating device; the position sensor feeds back the turntable position information and the rotating device position information in real time.
4. The multi-element antenna testing system as claimed in claim 3, wherein: The turntable includes a bearing platform, an angle encoder and a rotating motor; the bearing platform is used to install the antenna to be tested; the angle encoder is used to determine the real-time angle data of the turntable; and the rotating motor is used to rotate under the action of the motor driving module.
5. The multi-element antenna testing system as claimed in claim 3, wherein: The rotating device includes a polarization selector, a locking mechanism and a rotating motor; the polarization selector is used to switch the polarization direction of the transmitting antenna; the locking mechanism is used to fix the position of the transmitting antenna when switching the polarization mode; the rotating motor is used to rotate under the action of the motor driving module.
6. A method for testing a multi-element antenna, based on the testing system for a multi-element antenna as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: include: Controlling the rotating device to rotate by the turntable controller so that the transmitting antenna transmits the radio frequency signal generated by the vector network analyzer in a preset polarization direction; Controlling the rotation of the turntable by the turntable controller so that the receiving antenna receives the radio frequency signal at a preset angle; Sending the test data generated by the receiving antenna to the control computer through the vector network analyzer for processing and analysis, and storing the analysis results; After the control computer receives the test data, the channel of the antenna to be tested is switched through the channel switching control device to test other antenna elements.
7. The method for testing a multi-element antenna as claimed in claim 6, wherein: It also includes setting the test frequency, the rotation angle of the turntable, and the number of test channels of the antenna element according to the parameter data of the antenna to be tested.
8. The method for testing a multi-element antenna as claimed in claim 6, wherein: It also includes initializing the transmission power of the vector network analyzer, the initial angle of the turntable, and the initial polarization direction of the rotating device.
9. A test device for a multi-element antenna, characterized in that: It comprises at least one processing unit and at least one storage unit, wherein the storage unit stores a computer program, and when the computer program is executed by the processing unit, the processing unit executes the steps of the multi-element antenna testing method according to any one of claims 6 to 8.
10. A storage medium, characterized in that: It stores a computer program executable by an access authentication device. When the computer program runs on the access authentication device, the access authentication device executes the steps of the multi-element antenna testing method according to any one of claims 6 to 8.
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