Automatic alignment method and system for phased-array antenna

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides an automatic alignment method and system for a phased-array antenna, and relates to the technical field of antennae, the method is applied to the automatic alignment system, the automatic alignment system comprises an upper computer, an analysis device, a scanning device and the phased-array antenna which are connected to the same local area network, and the phased-array antenna is installed at a set position of the scanning device. The method comprises the following steps: carrying out initial configuration on an analysis device, a scanning device and a phased-array antenna according to configuration parameters in an upper computer, and controlling the analysis device, the scanning device and the phased-array antenna to respectively carry out activation and positioning search on each channel of the phased-array antenna based on the initial configuration, and determining the coordinate position of each channel in the phased-array antenna in the coordinate system of the scanning device. And based on the coordinate position and the initial relative coordinate of each channel in the phased-array antenna in the coordinate system of the scanning device, analyzing to obtain the corrected coordinate of each channel, thereby conveniently and reliably realizing the automatic alignment of the phased-array antenna.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of antenna technology, and more specifically, to an automatic alignment method and system for phased array antennas. Background Technology

[0002] Phased array antennas evolved from array antennas, primarily relying on phase changes to move or scan the antenna beam in space. A phased array antenna consists of multiple antenna elements, also known as radiators. These elements can be single waveguide horn antennas, dipole antennas, patch antennas, etc. A phase shifter is located at the rear of each antenna element to change the phase relationship between the signals. Signal amplitude changes are achieved through power distribution / addition networks or attenuators. The alignment of a phased array antenna is a critical factor in ensuring its application reliability; therefore, how to achieve proper alignment of a phased array antenna is a problem that needs to be studied. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One of the objectives of this invention includes, for example, providing an automatic alignment method and system for phased array antennas to achieve automatic alignment of phased array antennas conveniently and reliably.

[0004] The embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as follows: In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide an automatic alignment method for a phased array antenna, applied to an automatic alignment system. The automatic alignment system includes a host computer connected to the same local area network, an analysis device, a scanning device, and a phased array antenna. The phased array antenna is installed at a predetermined position of the scanning device. The method includes: The analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna are initialized and configured according to the configuration parameters in the host computer. Based on the initialization configuration, the analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna are controlled to activate and locate each channel of the phased array antenna respectively, and the coordinate position of each channel in the phased array antenna in the coordinate system of the scanning device is determined based on the energy value. Based on the coordinate positions and the initial relative coordinates of each channel in the phased array antenna, the corrected coordinates of each channel are obtained through analysis.

[0005] In an optional implementation, the scanning device is an XYZABR six-axis scanning device, and the phased array antenna is installed at a designated position on the scanning device through the following steps: The phased array antenna is mounted and fixed to the base plate of the B axis of the XYZABR six-axis scanning device using a standard fixture; The XYZABR six-axis scanning device is controlled to raise the B-axis to a position where the distance between the phased array antenna and the waveguide probe on the Z-axis is set to 1 to 3 wavelengths.

[0006] In an optional implementation, the initialization configuration of the analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna according to the configuration parameters in the host computer includes: The transmitting and receiving devices are determined based on the analysis device. Based on the configuration parameters, the operating parameters of the analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna are set respectively; The operating parameters include the operating frequency, the number of trigger points and the mode of the receiving device, and the moving speed of the scanning device.

[0007] In an optional implementation, setting the operating parameters of the analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna according to the configuration parameters includes: Select the operating frequency of the phased array antenna, and use the amplitude value at the operating frequency as the positioning reference for the corresponding operating channel; Configure the scan search point range, data acquisition delay, whether to enable automatic channel opening, list of enabled channels, transmit / receive selection, whether to perform installation offset correction, initial relative coordinates between channels, the moving speed of the scanning device along the XY axis, and the number of trigger points of the receiving device, the trigger mode being manual trigger and point trigger, and the scanning mode being continuous wave mode.

[0008] In an optional implementation, the step of controlling the analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna to activate and locate each channel of the phased array antenna based on the initialization configuration, and determining the coordinate position of each channel in the phased array antenna in the coordinate system of the scanning device based on the energy value, includes: Send a full-channel power-off and a designated single-channel power-on command to the phased array antenna, and control the transmit / receive state of the designated single channel according to the configuration parameters; Control the attenuation state of the designated single channel to the minimum to ensure that only the designated single channel is turned on in the current phased array antenna. Perform a search for the maximum energy value of a specified single channel to obtain the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to the maximum energy value; Based on the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to each specified single channel, the offset parameters of the measured coordinate system of each channel of the phased array antenna are calculated. Based on the offset parameters and the initial relative coordinates, the corrected coordinates of each channel in the phased array antenna are obtained, which are used as the coordinate positions of each channel in the phased array antenna in the coordinate system of the scanning device.

[0009] In an optional implementation, the step of performing a search for the maximum energy value of a specified single channel to obtain the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to the maximum energy value includes: The X and Y coordinates of the current probe in the scanning device are obtained to obtain the coordinate system of the scanning device; Use the X and Y coordinates of the current probe as the center point; According to the scanning search point range and data acquisition delay, test the energy value radiated by the probe of the scanning device at the center point and several non-center points in a specified single channel. Based on the relationship between the energy value detected at the center point and the energy values ​​detected at several non-center points, the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to the maximum energy value is determined.

[0010] In an optional implementation, the non-center points are located within the scanning search point range and around the center point; determining the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to the maximum energy value based on the relationship between the energy value detected at the center point and the energy values ​​detected at several non-center points includes: Determine whether any of the energy values ​​detected at several non-center points are greater than the energy value detected at the center point; If it exists, the center point is updated to the position corresponding to the maximum detected energy value, and this position is taken as the actual position of the scanning device. Then, the process of testing the energy value radiated by the probe of the scanning device at the center point and several non-center points according to the scanning search point range and sampling delay is returned. If not found, the scan search point range is narrowed, and the non-center point positions around the center point are re-determined. The process then returns to the step of testing the energy value radiated by the probe of the scanning device at the center point and several non-center points according to the scan search point range and sampling delay, until the scan search point range is exhausted. Alternatively, if the energy value detected at the non-center points is greater than the energy value detected at the center point, the center point is updated to the position corresponding to the maximum detected energy value. This position is taken as the actual position of the scanning device, and the process then returns to the step of testing the energy value radiated by the probe of the scanning device at the center point and several non-center points according to the scan search point range and sampling delay.

[0011] In an optional implementation, the step of calculating the offset parameters of the measured coordinate system of each channel of the phased array antenna based on the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to each specified single channel includes: Based on the actual position and initial relative coordinates, and using the rigid body transformation formula and rotation angle formula, the offset parameters of the measured coordinate system of all channels of the phased array antenna are calculated.

[0012] In an optional embodiment, the opening channel list includes three channels, and the initial relative coordinates of the three channels form a right triangle.

[0013] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present invention provides an automatic alignment system, including: a host computer, an analysis device, a scanning device, and a phased array antenna connected to the same local area network. The phased array antenna is installed at a set position of the scanning device, and the automatic alignment system is used to implement the phased array antenna automatic alignment method described in any one of the foregoing embodiments.

[0014] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a computer-readable storage medium, which includes a computer program. When the computer program runs, it controls the electronic device where the computer-readable storage medium is located to execute the phased array antenna automatic alignment method described in any one of the foregoing embodiments.

[0015] The beneficial effects of the embodiments of the present invention include, for example: reusing existing test equipment, without adding any new hardware, and only by using the analysis device standard for antenna calibration testing, the existing scanning device, and the channels of the phased array antenna itself that do not require additional modification, alignment can be achieved, and the hardware cost approaches zero. By configuring parameters and linkage control, the coordinate position is determined based on the energy value, and then the corrected coordinates of each channel are analyzed, supporting direct locking of the energy radiation center and matching the core working requirements of the antenna. Thus, the automatic alignment of the phased array antenna is achieved conveniently and reliably. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings required for use in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of the present invention, and thus should not be regarded as limiting the scope. For those of ordinary skill in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative efforts.

[0017] Figure 1 FIG. shows a schematic structural distribution diagram of a phased array antenna provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 FIG. shows a schematic composition diagram of a phased array antenna near-field test system provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 3 FIG. shows a schematic structural diagram of a host computer provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 4 FIG. shows a schematic flowchart of a phased array antenna automatic alignment method provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 5The diagram illustrates the implementation flow of an automatic near-field calibration method for a phased array antenna channel provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 6 An embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 4 A flowchart of the S120 process.

[0023] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a coordinate confirmation process provided by an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0024] Icons: 100 - Electronic device; 110 - Memory; 120 - Processor; 130 - Communication module. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Please see Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structural distribution of a phased array antenna is provided, including antenna array, multiple channels, sub-board, wave control motherboard, power supply board, etc.

[0026] A typical phased array antenna may contain dozens to thousands of independent channels. Due to differences in materials, components, and circuit manufacturing and assembly processes between different channels, the transmission coefficients of each channel will have certain deviations. These deviations directly determine the antenna's beam performance. If the signal deviation between channels is too large, it will lead to increased beam sidelobes (enhanced interference signals), main lobe shift (target detection deviation), and decreased gain (shortened communication distance), severely affecting the overall system performance. Therefore, array amplitude and phase calibration is an important task in the development of phased array antennas.

[0027] The calibration of phased array antennas can be divided into two categories: far-field calibration and near-field calibration.

[0028] Among them, far-field calibration requires placing the antenna in an open far-field environment (such as a microwave anechoic chamber or an outdoor test field) and inferring the channel deviation by receiving the far-field target signal. This calibration method has the following limitations: first, it has high requirements for the test environment (it needs a sufficiently large unobstructed space); second, it has low calibration efficiency (large arrays require multiple adjustments to the test position); and third, it cannot locate the specific deviation source of a single channel.

[0029] like Figure 2As shown, near-field calibration involves setting up detection devices (such as RF probes, scanning frames, and vector network analyzers) in the near-field region of the antenna (typically within 1 to 3 times the wavelength of the antenna array's normal direction) to directly acquire the near-field radiation signals of each channel. Channel deviations are then calculated through signal analysis. Near-field calibration offers several advantages: strong environmental adaptability (it can be performed in laboratories and production workshops), high calibration accuracy (it can pinpoint the characteristics of individual channels and signals), and targeted correction of deviations (without requiring antenna array adjustments). Therefore, near-field calibration has become the primary calibration method for the production, debugging, operation, and maintenance of small and medium-sized, high-density phased array antennas.

[0030] However, research has revealed that the near-field alignment performance of phased array antenna channels in related technologies needs improvement, primarily due to the following reasons: 1. Manual alignment is inefficient and has large errors: Although the antenna design provides relative coordinates between channels, in actual positioning, the tester needs to manually control the movement of the scanning frame and judge the alignment status through subjective perception. Single-channel positioning takes 10 to 15 minutes, and the positioning deviation caused by manual operation error is ≥2mm, which cannot meet the requirements of high-precision calibration.

[0031] 2. High-precision alignment equipment is expensive and may have deviations in actual positioning: Although laser alignment or image recognition alignment can improve accuracy, it requires the purchase of special equipment (the unit price of a laser alignment instrument is ≥100,000 yuan, and the image recognition system is ≥80,000 yuan), which increases the hardware cost by 30%-50%. Moreover, image recognition can only locate the antenna appearance or frame and cannot match the energy radiation center, resulting in a deviation of ≥1.5mm between the calibration state and the actual working state.

[0032] 3. Installation offset leading to alignment failure: When installing the antenna base plate, testers may cause an overall offset of more than ±1mm, which cannot be judged by the naked eye. Positioning based on the initial relative coordinates will fail, affecting production and maintenance efficiency.

[0033] For example, taking three types of near-field channel alignment solutions—manual alignment of a single channel, image recognition alignment, and laser alignment—as examples, these three alignment solutions differ significantly in technical principles, accuracy, efficiency, and cost. Furthermore, all three suffer from the inability to simultaneously achieve a balance between accuracy, efficiency, cost, and adaptability to installation offsets. The analysis is as follows: The technical principle and implementation process of manual alignment of a single channel are as follows: It is mainly used for the calibration of small and medium-sized phased array antennas, and the core relies on manual operation to complete the alignment. The process includes: Based on the antenna design documents, the testers obtained the theoretical relative coordinates of each channel, such as the theoretical coordinates of channel A (Xa0, Ya0) and channel B (Xb0, Yb0), and then input the coordinates into the scanning frame control system.

[0034] The tester manually controls the scanning rig to move the probe to the vicinity of any channel (used as the reference channel).

[0035] Open the reference channel, such as channel A, and observe the real-time changes in the acquired energy value using a vector network analyzer (VNA). The tester slowly fine-tunes the probe position using the scanning frame. When the energy value displayed by the VNA reaches the maximum value as subjectively judged, the movement is stopped, and the coordinates (Xj, Yj) of the scanning frame at this time are recorded. These coordinates are considered as the alignment coordinates of this channel, i.e., the reference channel. At the same time, based on the theoretical relative coordinate relationship, the corrected coordinates of any channel N can be calculated as (Xj+Xa0-Xn0, Yj+Ya0-Yn0), where Xn0 and Yn0 are the theoretical relative coordinates X and Y of channel N.

[0036] The method of manually aligning a single channel has the following drawbacks: Low and unstable accuracy: Alignment accuracy depends entirely on the operator's subjective judgment, lacks objective extreme value judgment criteria, and is prone to over-adjustment or under-adjustment when manually fine-tuning the scanning frame, causing the reference channel to lose its reference significance.

[0037] Low efficiency: The alignment of the channel requires repeated fine-tuning and observation by the operator, and usually requires two people to operate together, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive and cannot meet the needs of mass production.

[0038] Installation offset is easily overlooked: The default antenna base plate installation position is completely consistent with the design drawings, without considering the offset in actual installation, such as the misalignment of screws when fixing the base plate. Although the positioning of a single reference channel is accurate, the offset of the entire array is ignored, which leads to the deviation between the coordinates of other channels calculated based on this and the actual coordinates, and the subsequent signal acquisition is distorted.

[0039] High labor costs: It requires the availability of test personnel with professional experience (who must be familiar with vector network operation, scanning frame control, and antenna principles).

[0040] The technical principle and implementation process of image recognition alignment are as follows: To solve the efficiency problem of manual alignment, some solutions introduce image recognition technology, using machine vision to replace manual observation and achieve automated alignment. The process includes: Image acquisition device deployment: Testers need to install a high-definition industrial camera next to the scanning frame probe and set visual markers, such as circular black and white marks or QR codes, next to each channel of the antenna array.

[0041] Marker point localization: The system software (custom-developed) acquires array images through a camera, uses a specific image recognition algorithm to locate the visual marker points of the target channel, obtains the image coordinates of the marker points, and converts them into the mechanical coordinates of the scanning gantry (Xa_img, Ya_img).

[0042] Automatic alignment: The system software automatically moves the probe to (Xa_img, Ya_img) through the scanning gantry control module. The system software then performs alignment recognition and verification again through image acquisition and analysis. If the judgment is successful, it is regarded as the alignment coordinate of the channel, and no manual intervention is required.

[0043] Full-channel alignment: The system software acquires the mechanical coordinates of the scanning frame corresponding to each channel one by one based on all visual marker points.

[0044] While image recognition alignment solutions automate and improve efficiency, they suffer from the following drawbacks and cannot meet real-world calibration requirements: Positioning object deviation: Aligning with the marker point instead of the actual radiation center. The core of image recognition alignment is to locate the visual marker point next to the channel. However, the installation position of the marker point may have a physical deviation (about 0.5mm to 2mm) from the actual radiation center of the channel (usually at the geometric center of the channel antenna element). In addition, the marker point is prone to tilting and wear during installation, resulting in the coordinates of image recognition positioning deviating from the actual radiation center by ≥1.5mm. The calibration accuracy cannot meet the requirements of high-precision antennas.

[0045] High equipment cost: It requires additional purchase of high-definition industrial cameras (unit price ≥ 20,000 yuan), image recognition software (license fee ≥ 10,000 yuan), and marker point production and installation tools (cost ≥ 5,000 yuan). The cost of a single set of equipment is ≥ 35,000 yuan, which is 50% to 80% higher than the cost of equipment with manual alignment (only vector network and scanning frame are required), making it unsuitable for cost-sensitive scenarios.

[0046] Poor environmental adaptability: Image recognition depends on a clear visual environment. If there are stains, dust or changes in ambient lighting on the antenna array, it will cause the marker recognition to fail. Manual cleaning and lighting adjustment are required, which will reduce efficiency.

[0047] Laser alignment is the most accurate channel alignment method among the three options. It utilizes the high collimation of lasers to achieve coordinate positioning. The process includes: Laser system deployment: Professionals install laser transmitters on the scanning rig and install laser receiving targets at the center of each channel of the antenna array.

[0048] Laser positioning: The laser emitter emits a laser beam, and the scanning frame control system adjusts the direction of the laser beam. When the laser beam hits the center of the target channel receiving target, the laser receiving target sends an alignment success signal. The coordinates of the scanning frame at this time are recorded and regarded as the alignment coordinates of the channel.

[0049] Full-channel automatic alignment: The system software moves the scanning gantry (additional software development is still required) and generates full-channel alignment coordinates based on all coordinates of laser positioning.

[0050] Although laser alignment offers high precision, it still has the following drawbacks: The equipment cost is extremely high: the procurement cost of a single laser alignment system (including laser emitter, receiving target and control system) is ≥100,000 yuan, and it is only suitable for extreme high-precision and cost-insensitive scenarios such as military and aerospace.

[0051] Operation and maintenance are complex: the laser system has extremely high requirements for installation accuracy (the initial calibration deviation between the laser transmitter and the receiving target must be ≤0.01mm), and professional technicians are required to debug the system; in addition, the laser receiving target is easily affected by electromagnetic interference (such as the strong electromagnetic environment when the phased array antenna is working), which can lead to signal misjudgment, requiring regular maintenance, which further increases the cost and complexity of use.

[0052] As can be seen from the above analysis, none of the alignment methods in the relevant technologies have achieved integrated automatic alignment by utilizing existing equipment, locating the true radiation center, and correcting installation offsets, thus failing to meet the requirements of accuracy, efficiency, and cost.

[0053] Based on this, this invention proposes an innovative near-field automatic calibration method for phased array antennas. Addressing the aforementioned common shortcomings, it proposes an automatic alignment method based on near-field calibration equipment (vector network, scanning frame) for phased array antenna channels. This method rapidly acquires the maximum energy point to locate the true radiation center and combines multi-channel measured coordinates to correct installation offsets. The method integrates multi-device linkage control, maximum energy point location, and multi-channel installation offset correction into the system software, thereby significantly reducing manual intervention, improving result accuracy, and filling the technological gap in high-precision, high-efficiency, low-cost, and highly adaptable integrated channel alignment.

[0054] The shortcomings of the above solutions are the result of the inventors' practical experience and careful research. Therefore, the discovery process of the above problems and the solutions proposed by the embodiments of the present invention in the following text should be considered as contributions made by the inventors during the invention process.

[0055] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of the present invention described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0056] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the invention provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the invention.

[0057] It should be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0058] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0059] It should be noted that, where there is no conflict, the features in the embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other.

[0060] Please refer to the reference. Figure 3 This is a block diagram of an electronic device 100 provided in this embodiment. The electronic device 100 in this embodiment can be a server, processing device, processing platform, etc., capable of data interaction and processing. For example, it can be a host computer. The electronic device 100 includes a memory 110, a processor 120, and a communication module 130. The memory 110, processor 120, and communication module 130 are electrically connected to each other directly or indirectly to realize data transmission or interaction. For example, these components can be electrically connected to each other through one or more communication buses or signal lines.

[0061] The memory 110 is used to store programs or data. The memory 110 may be, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), etc.

[0062] The processor 120 is used to read / write data or programs stored in the memory 110 and to perform corresponding functions.

[0063] The communication module 130 is used to establish a communication connection between the electronic device 100 and other communication terminals through the network, and to send and receive data through the network.

[0064] It should be understood that, Figure 3 The structure shown is only a schematic diagram of the electronic device 100. The electronic device 100 may also include components that are larger than... Figure 3 The more or fewer components shown, or having the same Figure 3 The different configurations shown. Figure 3 The components shown can be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination thereof.

[0065] Please refer to the following: Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an automatic phased array antenna alignment method according to an embodiment of the present invention. This automatic alignment method is applied to an automatic alignment system, which includes a host computer, an analysis device, a scanning device, and a phased array antenna connected to the same local area network. The phased array antenna is installed at a predetermined position on the scanning device. The method includes steps S110, S120, and S130. S110, Initialize the analysis device, scanning device and phased array antenna according to the configuration parameters in the host computer.

[0066] S120, based on the initialization configuration, control the analysis device, scanning device and phased array antenna to activate and locate each channel of the phased array antenna respectively, and determine the coordinate position of each channel of the phased array antenna in the coordinate system of the scanning device based on the energy value.

[0067] S130, based on the coordinate positions and the initial relative coordinates of each channel in the phased array antenna, the corrected coordinates of each channel are obtained through analysis.

[0068] Based on this alignment method, no new hardware is required; alignment can be achieved using existing components. The coordinate position is determined based on energy values, supporting direct locking of the energy radiation center and matching the core operating requirements of the antenna. This enables convenient and reliable automatic alignment of phased array antennas.

[0069] The host computer can deploy system software for implementing the alignment function, including various configuration parameters. The analysis and scanning devices can be flexibly selected, as long as they support collaborative implementation of the alignment method. For example, the analysis device can be a vector network analyzer or a spectrum analyzer with a signal source. The scanning device can be a multi-probe array or a near-field scanning gantry.

[0070] Taking an XYZABR six-axis scanning device as an example, the phased array antenna can be installed at a predetermined position on the scanning device using the following steps: The phased array antenna is mounted and fixed to the base plate of the XYZABR six-axis scanning device along its B-axis using a standard clamp. The XYZABR six-axis scanning device is then controlled to raise its B-axis to a position where the distance between the phased array antenna and the waveguide probe on the Z-axis is a predetermined 1 to 3 wavelengths.

[0071] In step S110, initializing the analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna according to the configuration parameters in the host computer may include: determining the transmitting device and receiving device based on the analysis device; and setting the operating parameters of the analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna according to the configuration parameters. The operating parameters include the operating frequency, the number and mode of the trigger points of the receiving device, and the moving speed of the scanning device.

[0072] Transmitting equipment refers to devices that generate and output radio frequency test signals to drive the phased array antenna under test to radiate electromagnetic waves, such as vector network analyzers (VNAs) and signal generators. Receiving equipment is a device that captures the electromagnetic wave signals radiated or reflected by the phased array antenna under test, such as VNAs and spectrum analyzers. Among them, VNAs can be used as both transmitting and receiving devices, and a VNA has at least two ports, one for transmitting and one for receiving.

[0073] The operating parameters of the analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna can be flexibly set. For example, the operating frequency of the phased array antenna can be selected, and the amplitude value at that operating frequency can be used as the positioning reference for the corresponding operating channel. The configuration includes the scan search point range, data acquisition delay, whether to enable automatic channel activation, the list of activated channels, transmit / receive selection, whether to perform installation offset correction, the initial relative coordinates between channels, the XY axis movement speed of the scanning device, and the number of trigger points for the receiving device, with trigger modes of manual triggering and point triggering, and the scanning mode being continuous wave mode.

[0074] For example, please refer to Figure 5 This paper presents an implementation flow for an automatic near-field calibration method for phased array antenna channels.

[0075] Wherein, S110 corresponds to Figure 5 Steps S01 to S05 are as follows, assuming the analysis device is a vector network analyzer and the scanning device is a near-field scanning frame.

[0076] S01: Equipment preparation. Prepare the necessary equipment for near-field calibration, including a vector network analyzer (energy acquisition resolution 0.01dB), an XYZABR six-axis near-field scanning frame (movement accuracy ±0.01mm), a phased array antenna prototype, system software (including parameter configuration, equipment automation control, extreme value search, and overall offset correction functions), and a DC regulated power supply. The system software is deployed on a host computer such as a personal computer (PC).

[0077] S02: Device connection. The tester connects the vector network analyzer (transceiver), scanning frame, phased array antenna, and PC (with system software deployed) to the same local area network via network cable, configures the network parameters, and ensures that the PC can communicate normally with the other devices. Then, the other devices are connected in the device connection module of the system software.

[0078] S03: Installation of the antenna under test requiring calibration. The tester uses a standard fixture to install and fix the antenna under test (phased array antenna) onto the base plate of the scanning frame B-axis. Then, the scanning frame is controlled to raise the B-axis until the distance between the antenna under test on the B-axis and the waveguide probe on the Z-axis is 1-3 wavelengths. Check whether the phased array antenna power connection is abnormal, turn on and set the power parameters to put the phased array antenna into normal standby state (initialization completed, no channels are turned on).

[0079] S04: Scanning Parameter Configuration. The tester enters the phased array antenna channel of the system software, aligns it with the test interface, and configures the various parameters in sequence. The table below shows one example of scanning parameter configuration:

[0080] S05: Device initialization configuration. Based on the transmitting and receiving devices selected in the parameter configuration interface, the initialization configuration is performed sequentially, including: (1) Set the frequency of the transceiver device through the device control interface module; (2) Control its signal activation via the transmitting equipment interface; (3) The number of trigger points is controlled to be 5 through the receiving device control interface (in actual use, it includes the center point + four points around the perimeter); (4) Configure the trigger mode of the receiving device control interface as manual trigger + point trigger (taking the receiving device as a vector network analyzer as an example, the manual trigger mode of the vector network analyzer (the data reading process in this mode is to issue a Trigger command -> read all the triggered data, and multiple data points only need to issue the Trigger command repeatedly, and then read them uniformly) can effectively reduce the data acquisition time and improve the execution efficiency of the entire point search process. (5) Configure its scanning mode to continuous wave (CW) mode through the receiving device control interface; (6) Configure the XY axis movement speed of the scanning carriage through the scanning carriage control interface.

[0081] The number of channels in the enabled channel list can be flexibly set, such as one, two, three, or more. It's understood that fewer channels in the enabled channel list result in higher alignment efficiency, while more channels result in higher alignment reliability. Based on a balance between alignment performance and reliability, the enabled channel list can contain three channels, with their initial relative coordinates forming a right triangle. Please refer to the relevant documentation. Figure 6 After initialization configuration based on S110, the coordinate positions of each channel in the phased array antenna in the scanning device coordinate system can be determined in S120 through S121, S122, S123, S124 and S125.

[0082] S121, send a full-channel power-off and a designated single-channel power-on command to the phased array antenna, and control the transmit / receive state of the designated single channel according to the configuration parameters.

[0083] S122, control the attenuation state of the specified single channel to the minimum, ensuring that only the specified single channel is turned on in the current phased array antenna.

[0084] S123, perform a search for the maximum energy value of a specified single channel to obtain the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to the maximum energy value.

[0085] For example, the X and Y coordinates of the current probe in the scanning device are obtained to form the scanning device coordinate system, and the X and Y coordinates of the current probe are used as the center point. According to the scanning search point range and data acquisition delay, the energy value radiated by the probe of the scanning device at the center point and several non-center points is tested for a specified single channel. Based on the relationship between the energy value detected at the center point and the energy values ​​detected at several non-center points, the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to the maximum energy value is determined.

[0086] S124, Based on the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to each specified single channel, calculate the offset parameters of the measured coordinate system of each channel of the phased array antenna.

[0087] For example, based on the actual position and initial relative coordinates, the offset parameters of the measured coordinate system of all channels of the phased array antenna can be calculated using the rigid body transformation formula and the rotation angle formula.

[0088] S125, based on the offset parameters and the initial relative coordinates, obtain the corrected coordinates of each channel in the phased array antenna, which are used as the coordinate positions of each channel in the phased array antenna in the coordinate system of the scanning device.

[0089] To improve the reliability of the search, non-center points can be located within the range of the scan search points, around the center point. Correspondingly, the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to the maximum energy value can be obtained through the following process: Determine whether any of the energy values ​​detected at several non-center points are greater than the energy value detected at the center point.

[0090] If it exists, the center point is updated to the position corresponding to the maximum detected energy value, and this position is taken as the actual position of the scanning device. Then, the process returns to the step of testing the energy value radiated by the probe of the scanning device at the center point and several non-center points according to the scanning search point range and sampling delay.

[0091] If not found, the scan search point range is narrowed, and the non-center point positions around the center point are re-determined. The process then returns to the step of testing the energy value radiated by the probe of the scanning device at the center point and several non-center points according to the scan search point range and sampling delay, until the scan search point range is exhausted. Alternatively, if the energy value detected at the non-center points is greater than the energy value detected at the center point, the center point is updated to the position corresponding to the maximum detected energy value. This position is taken as the actual position of the scanning device, and the process then returns to the step of testing the energy value radiated by the probe of the scanning device at the center point and several non-center points according to the scan search point range and sampling delay.

[0092] For example, please continue reading Figure 5 After completing the parameter configuration based on S01 to S05, execute S06 to S10 to achieve calibration.

[0093] S06: Single-channel activation. The beam control module sends commands to the phased array antenna to power off all channels and power on a specified single channel, while simultaneously controlling the transmit / receive status of the single channel according to configuration parameters. The beam control module minimizes the attenuation of the single channel, ensuring that only one channel is active on the current array and maintaining relatively stable signal (low energy radiated by the channel under high attenuation), thus reducing interference. This process is skipped if the parameter interface indicates that automatic channel activation is not enabled.

[0094] S07: Single-channel positioning search. Since the distribution of energy points typically exhibits continuity (smooth energy variation with distance) and unimodality (a unique maximum value exists, and surrounding energy decreases with increasing distance), the peak value can be efficiently found through a process of "first coarsely locating the area, then finely searching." In actual testing, the single-channel maximum energy value search process can be performed using the scanner control interface and transceiver control interface to obtain the actual position of the scanner corresponding to the maximum energy value. Please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 7 The specific execution process is as follows: (1) Read the current X and Y coordinates of the probe (scanner coordinate system) through the scanning frame control interface; (2) Take the current X and Y coordinates of the probe as the center point; (3) Set variable N to the index number of the test search point range, with an initial value of 0; (4) Control the scanning frame to move to the center point position; (5) Delay for a certain period of time according to the configuration parameters; (6) Send a Trigger command through the receiving device control interface. At the same time, the energy value radiated by the phased array antenna channel has been recorded by the receiving device through the waveguide probe on the scanning frame (the initial position of the probe may be at any position on the phased array antenna surface). Record this energy value as p0. When the program executes this process for the first time, record it as the current maximum energy value Pmax. (7) Obtain the coordinates of the four corners around the center point through the scanning frame control interface. For example, the search range is 15, 10, 5, 2.5, 2, 1, 0.5, 0.2, 0.1, the search range index number N=0, the center point coordinates are a0 (X0, Y0), and the coordinates of the four sides of the center point are a1 (X0+15, Y0+15), a2 (X0-15, Y0-15), a3 (X0+15, Y0-15), a4 (X0-15, Y0+15). (8) Move the probe sequentially to the corresponding positions a1, a2, a3, a4 through the scanning frame control interface, and then collect the energy values ​​p0, p1, p2, p3, p4 radiated by the phased array antenna at the center position and these four edge positions through the receiving device control interface; (9) Determine whether any of the four edge energy values ​​p1, p2, p3, p4 is greater than the center point energy value p0 and greater than Pmax. If so, record the corresponding maximum value as Pmax and set its corresponding coordinates as the center point, and continue to execute step (5). If not, continue to narrow the search range, i.e., the search range index number N = N + 1. Then determine whether the index range has been traversed. If not, execute step (5) again. If so, the search is completed, and the coordinates corresponding to Pmax at this time are taken as the final search position.

[0095] S08: Multi-channel positioning and relative relationship correction. This process is only executed after the installation offset correction is selected when the tester configures the parameters. The specific procedure is as follows: (1) Based on the channel list filled in on the parameter interface, follow steps S06 and S07 until the coordinates of all channels in the scanning frame coordinate system are found; (2) After obtaining these coordinate positions, substitute them into the mathematical calculation formula to calculate the offset parameters of the measured coordinate system of all channels of the phased array antenna, namely the antenna coordinate X-axis direction translation change ΔX, Y-axis direction translation change ΔY, and rotation angle θ relative to the initial coordinates; (3) Based on the offset parameters obtained in the previous step, and combined with the initial relative coordinates of each channel, the corrected coordinates of each channel can be obtained by substituting them into the formula. The calculation process is shown in the table below:

[0096] Specifically, the calculation process is as follows: (1) Calculate the rotation angle according to the rotation angle calculation formula.

[0097] Rotation angle θ = arctan((Ye1-Yc1) / (Xe1-Xc1)) That is, the actual measured vector of CE is calculated as follows: Xe1-Xc1=28.2-19.5=8.7, Ye1-Yc1=2.6-2.5=0.1, θ=arctan(0.1 / 8.7)≈0.65°; (2) Solve for the global translation using the rigid body transformation formula: ΔX=Xc1-(Xc0.Cosθ-Yc0.Sinθ) ΔY=Yc1-(Yc0.Sinθ-Yc0.Cosθ) It can also be seen that when the reference right-angle vertex is the origin, Xc0=0 and Yc0=0 in the original formula, that is, ΔX=Xc1 and ΔY=Yc1, which can reduce the error caused by trigonometric functions.

[0098] Actual calculation: Given Xc0=17.6, Yc0=0, cos0.65°≈0.0113, XC1=19.5, YC1=2.5, then: ΔX=19.5-(17.6*0.999-0*0.0113)≈1.9 ΔY=2.5-(17.6*0.0113+0*0.9999)≈2.3 (3) Reconstruct the measured coordinates of all channels: After obtaining the global offset coefficient in the previous step, the measured coordinates (Xp1, Yp1) of any channel P can be calculated using the following formula: Xp1 = Xp0.Cosθ - Yp0.Sinθ + ΔX Yp1 = Xp0.Sinθ - Yp0.Cosθ + ΔY Calculate the right-angled side channel D (measured) (Xd0=17.6, Yd0=8.8), then: Xd1=17.6*0.9999-8.8*0.0113+1.9≈17.6-0.1+1.9=19.4 Yd1=17.6*0.0113+8.8*0.9999+2.3≈0.2+8.8+2.3=11.3 The deviation of 0.1 mm from the known measured D (19.4, 11.2) is due to the trigonometric function approximation and proves that the array surface has no obvious deformation. If the deviation is too large, it may be that the measured vertex coordinates are too large or the array surface has been severely deformed.

[0099] S09: Output corrected coordinates. After completing the above point search and calculation steps, output and display the actual coordinates of all channels in tabular form.

[0100] S10: Device reset. After completing all the above steps, perform a device reset operation, including controlling the phased array antenna to standby mode and turning off the transmitting equipment signal.

[0101] Compared to laser alignment and image recognition, which rely on high-precision specialized equipment, the alignment solution in this embodiment supports zero new hardware investment and reuses existing equipment, ensuring low cost control. It is especially suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises or upgrading old equipment.

[0102] Compared to laser alignment and image recognition, which rely on geometric appearance for positioning, laser alignment locates the structural center of the antenna channel (e.g., the geometric center of the channel's outer shell). However, if the array elements inside the channel are misaligned, the laser positioning result will be disconnected from the signal radiation center. Image recognition locates the visual contour features of the channel (e.g., the corners of the channel cover), which is easily affected by shell deformation and surface contamination. The positioning deviation is typically ≥0.5mm and cannot reflect the actual radiation state of the array elements, resulting in a "physical deviation" from the actual operating state of the antenna. The alignment scheme in this embodiment directly locks the energy radiation center, matching the core operating requirements of the antenna, and provides high positioning accuracy.

[0103] The alignment scheme in this embodiment of the invention achieves positioning by tracking the maximum energy point radiated by the channel, directly relating to the core operating attributes of the antenna. The performance of the phased array antenna depends on the signal radiation coordination of the array elements, and the energy peak point is the actual radiation center of the array element. Therefore, the positioning accuracy in this embodiment of the invention is only affected by the scanning frame displacement accuracy (typically ≤0.05mm) and the vector network (or other receiving device) signal sampling rate (which can be reduced by averaging multiple samples), and is independent of the channel structure appearance and shell condition. In actual implementation, the integrated operation of controlling the opening of the phased array antenna reference channel, the planar movement of the scanning frame, and the data acquisition and analysis of the vector network (receiving device) achieves high-efficiency and high-precision positioning results, fully meeting the core requirement that near-field alignment must be consistent with the antenna's operating state.

[0104] Compared to laser alignment and image recognition, which have stringent requirements for testing environment and installation status, and significant limitations in application scenarios, laser alignment requires an unobstructed straight optical path. If the antenna array has a metal structure blocking the laser, it cannot function properly. Furthermore, lasers are susceptible to interference from dust and moisture, leading to a significant decrease in positioning stability in outdoor or industrial environments. Image recognition requires uniform lighting and clear visual features. If the antenna array surface is made of reflective metal (prone to light spot interference) or the channel spacing is too small (leading to overlapping visual features), the recognition success rate will be greatly reduced. The alignment scheme in this embodiment can circumvent environmental and installation scenario limitations, including: Configurable parameters: Before testing, testers can fill in or modify test parameters such as the search range, channel opening list, transceiver device selection, and whether to automatically open channels, etc., according to the actual situation. It has strong compatibility and reusability.

[0105] No optical path / visual conditions required: The application scenarios are more diverse compared to laser / image recognition. Only the necessary equipment in the near-field calibration process (scanning frame, vector network, phased array antenna under test) is required, and the positioning reference factor is the magnitude of the channel radiation energy value, which is not limited by optical path or visual conditions.

[0106] Adaptable to arbitrary installation offsets: The system implements a coordinate reconstruction algorithm based on three-channel references, which can simultaneously compensate for translation and rotation, while laser / image recognition requires additional development costs to cover offset scenarios.

[0107] Transceiver equipment is replaceable and the software architecture is compatible: it is not limited to the transceiver equipment being vector network detectors, and the models of transceiver equipment and scanning racks are expandable, requiring only the control interface of the corresponding model equipment to be rewritten.

[0108] The process is fully automated, resulting in high operational efficiency. It is compatible with safety offsets and harsh environments, has no special environmental dependencies, strong scenario adaptability, and high error compensation capabilities.

[0109] Compared to laser alignment and image recognition, both of which require manual intervention and are inefficient, laser alignment requires manual adjustment of the laser transmitter and receiver positions, and readjustment is necessary after each antenna change. Image recognition requires manual annotation of visual feature points (initially requiring significant time for template training), and the template needs to be retrained with each channel model change. The alignment scheme in this invention achieves efficient alignment through fully automated control, including: Process automation: From channel signal excitation -> scanning gantry movement -> energy acquisition -> peak calculation -> coordinate reconstruction, no manual intervention is required throughout the process, and the single-channel positioning time is ≤60s.

[0110] Advantages of batch calibration: Only the single-channel positioning process needs to be repeated. Based on the channel list (3 or more right-angle channels) filled in by the tester, the actual coordinates of all channels can be automatically generated by the coordinate reconstruction algorithm.

[0111] Error Compensation Capability: Actively Corrects Overall Misalignment. Compared to laser alignment and image recognition, which can only passively locate and cannot actively compensate for installation errors, requiring manual secondary adjustments, if laser alignment or image recognition detects an overall antenna misalignment (e.g., a 2mm deviation in base plate fixation), the antenna must be manually disassembled and reinstalled, taking at least one hour, and rotational misalignment cannot be quantitatively compensated. The alignment scheme in this embodiment of the invention possesses active and quantitative error compensation capabilities. Through multi-channel (e.g., three-channel right angle) references, it automatically calculates the translation (ΔX, ΔY) and rotation angle (θ), generating a new relative coordinate system. The scanning frame can directly locate itself based on the new coordinates without disassembling the antenna or manual adjustment.

[0112] Based on the above, this embodiment of the invention also provides an automatic alignment system, including: a host computer, an analysis device, a scanning device, and a phased array antenna connected to the same local area network, wherein the phased array antenna is installed at a set position of the scanning device, and the automatic alignment system is used for the automatic alignment method of the phased array antenna in the above method embodiment.

[0113] The above is an automatic alignment method and system for phased array antennas provided in this embodiment. It is understood that other implementations are also possible.

[0114] For example, a vector network analyzer can be replaced by a combination of a spectrum analyzer and a signal source. If the existing equipment does not have a vector network analyzer, the above principle can be reused by combining a spectrum analyzer and a signal source to achieve hardware compatibility, which can further lower the hardware threshold.

[0115] The signal source is used to replace the signal excitation function of the vector network analyzer: it injects a single-frequency test signal into the target channel, with the frequency matching the antenna's operating frequency band.

[0116] The spectrum analyzer replaces the energy detection function of the vector network analyzer: it connects to the probe on the scanning frame to collect signal power (energy) values ​​at different coordinates.

[0117] The overall implementation process remains unchanged. The channel coordinates are determined by searching for the maximum power, and then the coordinates are reconstructed.

[0118] For example, the scanning gantry can be replaced by a static scanning method using a multi-probe array. If the mechanical precision of the scanning gantry is insufficient (e.g., step error ≥ 0.5 mm), a fixed multi-probe array can replace the single-probe moving scan, improving energy acquisition efficiency and accuracy.

[0119] Specifically, a planar array of multiple receiving probes (such as a 10*10 probe grid with 1mm spacing) can be fixed in front of the antenna array to replace the moving single probe. After the target channel is activated, all probes synchronously collect energy signals, and the peak probe position is directly located through the array data and converted into coordinates. The multi-channel positioning and coordinate reconstruction process remains unchanged; only the energy acquisition stage changes from dynamic scanning to static synchronous acquisition.

[0120] Static scanning based on multi-probe arrays requires additional hardware costs, but there are no mechanical movement errors, the positioning accuracy can be improved, and the positioning time of a single channel is shortened to less than 2 seconds.

[0121] For example, the energy peak search and coordinate reconstruction algorithms in the system software can be optimized. Compared to gradient search algorithms, which may be limited to local peaks such as pseudo-peaks caused by environmental reflection, AI algorithms can be used to optimize the search path and improve positioning reliability. For instance, in the initial stage, coarse scanning sampling with a compensation of 5mm can be used, and the energy distribution data can be preprocessed using a convolutional neural network to identify peaks that are all within the peak region (excluding pseudo-peaks). In the fine scanning stage, a cluster optimization algorithm can be used to quickly converge to the true peak.

[0122] The above-described scheme in this invention overcomes the shortcomings of related technologies, such as large human error, low efficiency, high cost, inaccurate positioning, and alignment failure caused by installation misalignment in phased array antenna channel alignment. In the near-field automatic alignment scheme for phased array antenna channels in this invention, the entire solution utilizes only existing vector network calibrator, scanning frame, and antenna channel (the antenna to be aligned), eliminating the need for additional hardware and reducing costs. The integrated system software for equipment control and algorithm implementation executes an algorithm to find the point of maximum energy through an automated search-energy acquisition-coordinate determination process, locating the true radiation center of the phased array antenna channel and improving positioning accuracy. After locating the coordinates of the three channels one by one (their positions forming a right angle) using the system software, the phased array antenna array surface installation misalignment is corrected using the "rigid body transformation formula," resolving the overall array surface misalignment problem. The alignment and correction processes are automatically executed by the system software, requiring only the configuration of necessary parameters before testing, reducing manual intervention, improving reusability, and increasing alignment efficiency.

[0123] In the several embodiments provided by this invention, it should be understood that the disclosed systems and methods can also be implemented in other ways. The system embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for example, the flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions marked in the blocks may occur in a different order than those marked in the drawings. For example, two consecutive blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. It should also be noted that each block in a block diagram and / or flowchart, and combinations of blocks in block diagrams and / or flowcharts, can be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or action, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0124] In addition, the functional modules in the various embodiments of the present invention can be integrated together to form an independent part, or each module can exist independently, or two or more modules can be integrated to form an independent part.

[0125] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional modules and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this invention, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this invention. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0126] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An automatic alignment method for a phased array antenna, characterized in that, An automatic alignment system is applied, comprising a host computer connected to the same local area network, an analysis device, a scanning device, and a phased array antenna, wherein the phased array antenna is installed at a predetermined position of the scanning device, and the method includes: The analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna are initialized and configured according to the configuration parameters in the host computer. Based on the initialization configuration, the analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna are controlled to activate and locate each channel of the phased array antenna respectively, and the coordinate position of each channel in the phased array antenna in the coordinate system of the scanning device is determined based on the energy value. Based on the coordinate positions and the initial relative coordinates of each channel in the phased array antenna, the corrected coordinates of each channel are obtained through analysis.

2. The automatic alignment method for phased array antennas according to claim 1, characterized in that, The scanning device is an XYZABR six-axis scanning device, and the phased array antenna is installed at a designated position on the scanning device through the following steps: The phased array antenna was mounted and fixed to the base plate of the B axis of the XYZABR six-axis scanning device using a standard fixture. The XYZABR six-axis scanning device is controlled to raise the B-axis to a position where the distance between the phased array antenna and the waveguide probe on the Z-axis is set to 1 to 3 wavelengths.

3. The automatic alignment method for phased array antennas according to claim 2, characterized in that, The initialization configuration of the analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna according to the configuration parameters in the host computer includes: The transmitting and receiving devices are determined based on the analysis device. Based on the configuration parameters, the operating parameters of the analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna are set respectively; The operating parameters include the operating frequency, the number of trigger points and mode of the receiving device, and the moving speed of the scanning device.

4. The automatic alignment method for phased array antennas according to claim 3, characterized in that, The step of setting the operating parameters of the analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna according to the configuration parameters includes: Select the operating frequency of the phased array antenna, and use the amplitude value at the operating frequency as the positioning reference for the corresponding operating channel; Configure the scan search point range, data acquisition delay, whether to enable automatic channel opening, list of enabled channels, transmit / receive selection, whether to perform installation offset correction, initial relative coordinates between channels, the moving speed of the scanning device along the XY axis, and the number of trigger points of the receiving device, the trigger mode being manual trigger and point trigger, and the scanning mode being continuous wave mode.

5. The automatic alignment method for a phased array antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, Based on the initialization configuration, the analysis device, scanning device, and phased array antenna are controlled to activate and locate each channel of the phased array antenna, and the coordinate position of each channel in the phased array antenna in the coordinate system of the scanning device is determined based on the energy value, including: Send a full-channel power-off and a designated single-channel power-on command to the phased array antenna, and control the transmit / receive state of the designated single channel according to the configuration parameters; Control the attenuation state of the designated single channel to the minimum to ensure that only the designated single channel is turned on in the current phased array antenna. Perform a search for the maximum energy value of a specified single channel to obtain the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to the maximum energy value; Based on the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to each specified single channel, the offset parameters of the measured coordinate system of each channel of the phased array antenna are calculated; Based on the offset parameters and the initial relative coordinates, the corrected coordinates of each channel in the phased array antenna are obtained, which are used as the coordinate positions of each channel in the phased array antenna in the coordinate system of the scanning device.

6. The automatic alignment method for phased array antennas according to claim 5, characterized in that, The step of performing a search for the maximum energy value of a specified single channel to obtain the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to the maximum energy value includes: The X and Y coordinates of the current probe in the scanning device are obtained to obtain the coordinate system of the scanning device; Use the X and Y coordinates of the current probe as the center point; According to the scanning search point range and data acquisition delay, test the energy value radiated by the probe of the scanning device at the center point and several non-center points in a specified single channel. Based on the relationship between the energy value detected at the center point and the energy values ​​detected at several non-center points, the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to the maximum energy value is determined.

7. The automatic alignment method for phased array antennas according to claim 6, characterized in that, The non-center points are located within the scanning search point range and around the center point; determining the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to the maximum energy value based on the relationship between the energy value detected at the center point and the energy values ​​detected at several non-center points includes: Determine whether any of the energy values ​​detected at several non-center points are greater than the energy value detected at the center point; If it exists, the center point is updated to the position corresponding to the maximum detected energy value, and this position is taken as the actual position of the scanning device. Then, the process of testing the energy value radiated by the probe of the scanning device at the center point and several non-center points according to the scanning search point range and sampling delay is returned. If not found, the scan search point range is narrowed, and the non-center point positions around the center point are re-determined. The process then returns to the step of testing the energy value radiated by the probe of the scanning device at the center point and several non-center points according to the scan search point range and sampling delay, until the scan search point range is exhausted. Alternatively, if the energy value detected at the non-center points is greater than the energy value detected at the center point, the center point is updated to the position corresponding to the maximum detected energy value. This position is taken as the actual position of the scanning device, and the process then returns to the step of testing the energy value radiated by the probe of the scanning device at the center point and several non-center points according to the scan search point range and sampling delay.

8. The automatic alignment method for a phased array antenna according to claim 5, characterized in that, The step of calculating the offset parameters of the measured coordinate system of each channel of the phased array antenna based on the actual position of the scanning device corresponding to each specified single channel includes: Based on the actual position and initial relative coordinates, and using the rigid body transformation formula and rotation angle formula, the offset parameters of the measured coordinate system of all channels of the phased array antenna are calculated.

9. The automatic alignment method for a phased array antenna according to claim 5, characterized in that, The list of open channels includes three channels, whose initial relative coordinates form a right triangle.

10. An automatic alignment system, characterized in that, include: The system comprises a host computer, an analysis device, a scanning device, and a phased array antenna connected to the same local area network. The phased array antenna is installed at a predetermined position on the scanning device. The automatic alignment system is used to implement the automatic alignment method for the phased array antenna as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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