Low-elevation antenna system for reducing scanning loss when communicating with satellites

Abstract

To provide an antenna system for communicating with satellites at any elevation and a method for connecting the antenna system to the satellites.SOLUTION: In a satellite communication system 100, each of antenna systems 115, 130, 170, 175 includes two or more user terminal panels (UTPs). Each of the UTPs includes multiple user terminal modules (UTMs). The UTPs may be arranged in either a fixed, an adjustable geometry or a combination thereof. A UTM has multiple user terminal elements (UTEs) that include antennas and active circuits. An antenna may either generate an incoming signal in response to incident radio waves received from a satellite and / or may transmit an outgoing signal toward the satellite. Each active circuit is configured to process the incoming and outgoing signals. The antenna system may include a control circuit configured to control signal processing performed by the active circuits. The UTPs may be operably connected to a single satellite, or different UTPs may be operably connected to different satellites.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Related Applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 964,376, filed on January 22, 2020, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 019,228, filed on May 1, 2020, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 060,101, filed on August 2, 2020, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to the field of beam scanning antenna systems, to low scan losses at low elevation angles, and more particularly to flat panel antennas for communicating with satellites at any elevation angle. Background

[0003] The global market for space ground station equipment is growing at a significant pace and is expected to reach a market value of $119.78 billion by 2024, according to a January 24, 2020 report by GlobeNewswire titled "Global Space Ground Station Equipment Market by 2024: Focus on Equipment, End User, Application, and Satellite Communication Services". Parabolic reflector antennas are the most prevalent in today's market. However, parabolic reflector antennas include a parabolic reflector, which can be costly to manufacture and can result in an antenna that is bulky and heavy in relation to the required supply system and support structure. In a sense, parabolic reflector antennas are becoming increasingly unrealistic. For example, the shape and form factor of parabolic reflector antennas make it costly to ship and transport to different regions of the world. Overview

[0004] One or more embodiments described herein solve one or more of the above-mentioned problems or other problems in the art, in particular, by providing systems, apparatus, and methods for providing inexpensive, reusable (or interchangeable) antenna elements that can be configured for a variety of commercial and civilian beam scanning communications applications and can be incorporated into high-performance modular electronically scanned array antenna systems capable of communicating with satellites located at elevation angles from 0 to 90 degrees, among other advantages.

[0005] In one embodiment, a flat panel array (FPA) antenna includes P user terminal panels (UTPs). Each UTP includes N user terminal modules (UTMs) and M user terminal elements (UTEs). The M UTEs include M antennas and M active circuits. The antennas generate incoming signals in response to incident radio waves received from the satellite, or transmit outgoing signals toward the satellite. The active circuits process the incoming and outgoing signals. The FPA antenna further includes control circuits for controlling the signal processing performed by the M active circuits. Advantageously, N and M can be adjusted to control the effective antenna area visible to the satellite and the corresponding throughput of the connection to maintain connectivity. The satellite is positioned at an elevation angle between zero and 90 degrees.

[0006] In other embodiments, the satellite antenna system includes M application agnostic user terminal elements (UTEs), each containing an antenna for generating an incoming signal in response to incoming satellite radio waves, or for transmitting an outgoing signal to a receiver such as a satellite or ground unit. Each UTE further includes an active circuit for processing the incoming and outgoing signals. The UTE active circuits are controlled by a control circuit that controls the processing performed by the M active circuits. In one embodiment, the M UTEs are distributed among N user terminal modules (UTMs), each containing a daisy-chain of O of the M active circuits. An example of such a system is shown and described with respect to Figure 9, which shows a satellite antenna system where M is equal to 256 and N and O are equal to 16.

[0007] To address potential quality degradation and signal attenuation that may occur along the daisy-chain stages, each UTM further includes buffers placed after each of the P active circuits to compensate for amplitude degradation occurring within the daisy-chain. In other words, buffers can be placed after each of the P active circuits to compensate for degraded signal characteristics as the signal traverses the daisy-chain. An example of such a UTM is shown in Figure 10. Figure 10 shows a UTM with 16 UTEs, and buffers placed between each of the 16 UTEs.

[0008] The advantage of systems like those disclosed herein lies in their modular design, which allows for adjustment of M to match the total antenna area available and the corresponding signal throughput for a given application. For example, a satellite antenna system intended for use in automotive applications can have M set lower than that for more demanding applications such as buses, aircraft, or cruise ships. NRE costs are minimized in such systems, provided that the UTEs have been designed in the past and are being reused.

[0009] Additional features and advantages of this application are described below, some of which are obvious from the following description or can be understood by carrying out examples of such embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] To describe the advantages and features mentioned above, as well as other advantages and features, in a manner that is attainable, a more specific explanation is given, and this is done by referring to specific examples shown in the attached drawings. While understanding that these drawings only show typical examples and are therefore not limiting in scope, embodiments are described and explained in more specific and detail using the attached drawings.

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a block diagram illustrating the general outline and configuration of an example satellite communication system, including various modular antenna array systems, according to one embodiment.

[0012] [Figure 2A-2B] Figures 2A and 2B show block diagrams illustrating an example of a satellite communication system that includes various modular antenna systems configured to establish satellite and ground-to-ground communication links (or connections) using an electronically scanned antenna array formed with inexpensive antenna (or user terminal) elements, according to one embodiment.

[0013] [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a block diagram illustrating an example of a modular architecture for an antenna module formed using multiple antenna (or user terminal) elements, according to one embodiment.

[0014] [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a block diagram illustrating an example of a modular architecture for an antenna (or user terminal) panel formed using multiple antenna modules, according to one embodiment.

[0015] [Figure 5A] Figure 5A shows an antenna system having a plurality of antenna panels for communicating with satellites at various different elevation angles according to an embodiment.

[0016] [Figure 5B] Figure 5B shows some antenna systems according to an embodiment.

[0017] [Figure 5C] Figure 5C is a graph showing the combined gain obtained by combining the relative antenna gain contributions of the main panel and the side panel as a function of the elevation angle of the satellite.

[0018] [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows some embodiments of the effective antenna area of a flat panel array antenna observed by a satellite.

[0019] [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of a method for deriving the projected area observed by a satellite.

[0020] [Figure 8A] Figure 8A shows a method for communicating with a satellite at an arbitrary elevation angle using an antenna system array according to an embodiment.

[0021] [Figure 8B] Figure 8B shows a method performed by an antenna system array for connecting to a satellite at an arbitrary elevation angle according to an embodiment.

[0022] [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a block diagram showing an example of a system (beam scanning antenna) for transmitting and receiving satellite radio signals for a certain application according to an example.

[0023] [Figure 10]Figure 10 shows a block diagram illustrating an example of a user terminal module, a user terminal control module, and an amplitude adjustment buffer according to one embodiment.

[0024] [Figure 11A] Figure 11A shows a block diagram illustrating an example of multiple user terminal modules and a user terminal control module according to one embodiment.

[0025] [Figure 11B] Figure 11B shows a block diagram illustrating an example of multiple user terminal modules and a user terminal control module according to one embodiment.

[0026] [Figure 11C] Figure 11C shows a block diagram illustrating an example of multiple user terminal modules and a user terminal control module according to one embodiment.

[0027] [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view of an antenna board mounted on a module board connected to a controller board used in a beam scanning antenna, according to one embodiment.

[0028] [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows plan and perspective views of an antenna board mounted on a module board used in a beam scanning antenna according to one embodiment.

[0029] [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows typical components and connectors used to assemble a beam scanning array system according to one embodiment.

[0030] [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows an exemplary structure used to form an antenna (or user terminal) module according to one embodiment.

[0031] [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows an exemplary structure used to form an antenna (or user terminal) module according to one embodiment.

[0032] [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows an example of a configuration in which multiple ground user terminals are composed of a modular satellite user terminal antenna system to improve the range and speed for real-time image acquisition applications.

[0033] [Figure 18] Figure 18 shows an example of a synthetic aperture ground user terminal consisting of multiple modular satellite user terminal antenna systems according to one embodiment.

[0034] [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows an example of a ground user terminal including a horn, according to one embodiment.

[0035] The drawings are not necessarily shown to scale. Similarly, to illustrate some embodiments of the present art, some components and / or operations may be separated into different blocks or integrated into a single block. Furthermore, the present art is subject to various modifications and alterations, although specific embodiments are shown in the drawings as examples and described in detail below. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described. Conversely, the present art is intended to cover all variations, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the scope of the art defined by the appended claims. Detailed Description

[0036] Examples are given below. Specific embodiments are described, but it should be understood that these are for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will understand that other components and configurations can be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter of this disclosure. Embodiments may include systems, processes, apparatus, methods implemented by machines, computing devices, or computer-readable media.

[0037] As mentioned above, parabolic reflector antennas are the most prevalent in the global market for space-ground terminal equipment today. However, parabolic reflector antennas are becoming less practical due to their bulky and heavy nature. For example, the shape and form factors of parabolic reflector antennas make shipping and transportation to different regions of the world difficult.

[0038] In some embodiments, the disclosed flat panel array (FPA) antenna is also referred to as an antenna system. The disclosed embodiments of the FPA antenna include various dimensional shapes consisting of a single flat panel or multiple antenna panels.

[0039] The invention described herein and illustrated in the figures seeks to solve the problems faced by parabolic reflector antennas. In one embodiment, the FPA antenna includes a plurality of N UTMs and M UTEs. The M UTEs include M antennas and M active circuits. Each antenna generates an incoming signal in response to incident radio waves received from the satellite or transmits an outgoing signal toward the satellite. The active circuits process the incoming and outgoing signals. The FPA antenna further includes a control circuit for controlling the signal processing performed by the M active circuits. Advantageously, N and M can be adjusted to adjust the effective antenna area visible to the satellite and the corresponding throughput of the connection thereto in order to maintain connectivity. The satellite is located at an elevation angle between zero and 90 degrees.

[0040] As described below with respect to the methods shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the disclosed FPA antenna can be used to connect to a satellite at any elevation angle. One such example of such a method involves positioning the FPA antenna at a certain location. The FPA antenna includes a plurality of N UTMs, each of which contains M UTEs (user terminal elements). Each of the M UTEs includes M antennas and M active circuits. The antennas generate an incoming signal in response to incident radio waves received from the satellite, or transmit an outgoing signal toward the satellite. The active circuits process the incoming and outgoing signals. In this example, the FPA antenna further includes one or more sensors for measuring the strength of the connection signal to the satellite. This example includes a control circuit that determines whether the total connection signal strength measured by one or more sensors meets the signal strength requirement, and if not, adjusts one or more of N, M, and position to adjust the effective antenna area visible to the satellite until the signal strength meets the requirement. In this example, the satellite may be located at any elevation angle between zero and 90 degrees.

[0041] In some embodiments, the term “scanning loss” is used to describe the inverse of the term “gain.” Furthermore, scanning loss is defined as the difference in antenna gain at any elevation angle to the maximum gain occurring perpendicular to the antenna panel. For flat panels placed on the ground, the maximum occurs at an elevation angle of 90 degrees.

[0042] Advantages of the disclosed FPA antenna over a parabolic reflector antenna

[0043] The disclosed FPA antenna has several advantages over the parabolic reflector antennas commonly used today. These parabolic reflector antennas are typically large, heavy, and expensive. A parabolic reflector antenna typically includes several components, some of which include: 1) a main parabolic reflector that can be several meters in diameter; 2) an illumination horn that must be spaced at the focal length; and 3) a mechanical system supporting all the components. These components typically result in a heavy and bulky antenna.

[0044] In the first point of comparison, the disclosed FPA antenna uses components that are easier to manufacture. Larger parabolic antennas are more difficult to fabricate. The disclosed FPA antenna is even more advantageous in that it uses application agnostic UTEs. These application agnostic UTEs are less expensive because they can be mass-produced. The advantages of application agnostic components are further described below.

[0045] Furthermore, the disclosed FPA antenna has the advantage of electronic steering, allowing it to better handle multiple satellites at different elevation angles. Parabolic reflector antennas are often slower at beam steering compared to the disclosed FPA antenna, which can steer the beam in milliseconds.

[0046] Furthermore, the disclosed FPA antenna has the advantage of electronic steering and can handle multiple satellites at different elevation angles simultaneously.

[0047] Furthermore, while parabolic reflecting antennas present maintenance challenges due to the inclusion of high-precision mechanical positioners, many of the disclosed FPA antennas do not have mechanical positioners. In addition, because FPA antennas are flat, they are significantly less susceptible to wind speed issues.

[0048] Furthermore, parabolic reflector antennas typically include moving parts that can lead to failures or shortened lifespans due to aging. The disclosed FPA antennas, such as FPA antennas 552, 554, 556, 558, 560, and 562 in Figure 5B, which have at least fixed dimensions and shapes, do not include moving parts that can fail over time.

[0049] Additional advantageous features of the disclosed FPA antenna

[0050] As described below and illustrated in the figures, the disclosed FPA antenna has several advantageous features and capabilities, particularly compared to parabolic reflector antennas. For example, in one aspect of the present invention, the disclosed FPA antenna can connect to multiple satellites simultaneously in multibeam communications, which are located at any elevation angle from 0 to 90 degrees. Furthermore, the disclosed FPA antenna can measure the signal strength of the connection to the satellite and respond in several ways to defects such as changes in the dimensional shape of the antenna that change the effective antenna area visible to the satellite. Embodiments of the disclosed FPA antenna can be advantageously applied in countless contexts, including ground stations, ground terminals, mobile applications such as cars and trains, and any of the ground radio stations shown in Figures 1, 2A, and 2B.

[0051] In one embodiment, the disclosed FPA antenna has a user interface that enables programming of the control circuit. The user can use the user interface to input a satellite position indication. The position indication includes an azimuth angle, starting from 0 degrees true north and rotating clockwise to 360 degrees. The user can also use the user interface to input an elevation angle, starting from 0 degrees horizontal and pointing straight up into the sky at 90 degrees.

[0052] Figures 5A, 5B, and 6 show examples of antenna systems with multiple panel sides. As used herein, the effective satellite area, as shown in Figure 6, consists of the sum of the projected surface areas of each panel side visible from the satellite. Each projected area is a linear projection of the panel side onto an arbitrary plane perpendicular to the line of sight to the satellite.

[0053] In one embodiment, the disclosed antenna has a fixed dimensional shape, as shown, for example, as the FPA antennas 554, 556, 558, 560, and 562 in Figure 5B. Such a fixed dimensional antenna includes an antenna surface capable of communicating with a satellite at an elevation of 0 degrees. In one embodiment, the disclosed antenna has a combination of a single antenna surface 1902 shown in Figure 19 and a feed horn including a flared metal waveguide 1904.

[0054] In one embodiment, the disclosed FPA antenna has an adjustable tent-like structure 552 that can set the ridge height according to the position of the satellite to which the FPA antenna is attempting to communicate. In other embodiments (not shown), multiple tents are used to increase the effective area of ​​the FPA antenna and reduce scanning loss.

[0055] In other embodiments, the disclosed FPA antenna has a main panel and a plurality of movable side panels, as shown, for example, as FPA antennas 564, 566, 568, and 570 in Figure 5B. In such embodiments, the FPA antenna can maximize the effective antenna area visible to the satellite by moving one or more side panels using actuators. In such embodiments, individual side panels can be dedicated to a satellite and can be combined with other side panels to switch between multiple satellites.

[0056] Furthermore, the disclosed FPA antenna can form multibeam connections to multiple satellites, each satellite having its own effective antenna area.

[0057] In another advantage of the present invention, the disclosed FPA antenna can connect to a satellite positioned at any elevation angle from 0 to 90 degrees. To do so, in some embodiments, multiple FPAs are arranged in a three-dimensional shape, for example, in the shape of several fixed structures shown in Figure 5B, so that the antenna surface can be exposed to the satellite. Embodiments, also shown in Figure 5B, have movable side panels that can be adjusted using actuators to maximize the surface area visible to the satellite. In some embodiments, such as shown as antenna 572 in Figure 5B, one or more reflectors on the main panel are included to focus the satellite connection. Generally, in the disclosed FPA antenna having multiple side panels, the panels that are not in operation can be disabled to reduce power consumption.

[0058] Cost advantages of Application AgnosticUTE

[0059] The limited availability and purchaseability of satellite ground antenna systems are further exacerbated by the way they are manufactured. Conventional antenna systems are customized and designed for specific applications. Such customized projects typically require expensive, one-time engineering effort, which constitutes NRE costs. Furthermore, such antenna systems are typically produced in relatively small quantities, resulting in higher unit costs. An example of such a satellite internet system available today is one made by Gogo, a Chicago-based company in Illinois that provides satellite internet systems for use on aircraft. Gogo's antenna systems can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, which, in today's dollar values, is equivalent to the price of a house.

[0060] In contrast, the technology described herein is directed toward antenna elements for modular antenna systems. More specifically, the technology is directed toward inexpensive, reusable, and replaceable antenna elements that can be incorporated into modular electronically scanned array antenna systems. The antenna systems described herein may consist of application-agnostic antenna elements that are designed only once. Such an approach minimizes NRE costs, facilitates mass production, and significantly reduces the cost per unit. In fact, the antenna elements described herein can be incorporated into modular electronically scanned array antenna systems that can be configured in various sizes and performance levels for a variety of high-performance commercial and consumer beam scanning applications, such as satellite communications, 5G cellular communications, automotive radar, and IoT applications.

[0061] As an example of advantageously reusing UTE designs to reduce NRE costs associated with beam scanning satellites, in one embodiment, the UTE can be designed only once, and an antenna system can be realized that includes one of the following: a first number of UTEs installed in a car, a second number of UTEs installed in a bus, a third number of UTEs installed in an aircraft, and a fourth number of UTEs installed in a cruise ship. The first, second, third, and fourth numbers of UTEs increase progressively.

[0062] In one embodiment, the technology described herein enables broader use of satellite connectivity by significantly reducing the cost of electronically scanned array antenna systems for satellite user terminals. In fact, the technology described herein reduces NRE costs, which, combined with mass production, enables high-performance user terminals costing less than $100 that can have transmission speeds faster than 1 Gbps. In other words, M UTEs can be mass-produced such that the manufacturing cost of each antenna system is equivalent to the average retail price offered by a commercially available personal computer manufacturer. This is, for example, more affordable than Gogo's commercial wireless satellite system, which costs the same as the price of a house, as mentioned above. Thus, in addition to contributing to existing markets, this technology also stimulates new, previously untapped markets where access to high-speed internet connectivity is not currently affordable.

[0063] Among other advantages, the modular antenna systems and solutions described herein promote inexpensive, reusable, replaceable, and modular flat beam-steering antennas. As mentioned above, the disclosed UTE can be designed only once without considering the final form factor. Such an approach reduces the NRE cost associated with the UTE, enabling antenna systems suitable for high-performance commercial and consumer beam-scanning applications such as satellite communications, 5G cellular communications, automotive radar, and IoT applications. In fact, the modular antenna systems and solutions described herein enable a wide range of satellite connectivity applications by significantly reducing the cost of phased arrays for satellite user terminals. The improvements described herein allow for the mass production of modular antenna elements, dramatically reducing the overall cost of beam-scanning array antennas. Furthermore, the array design reduces the complexity of the baseboard, further reducing the overall system cost. As a result, the systems and solutions described herein not only contribute to existing markets but also create new, previously non-existent markets where there is currently no way to access high-speed internet connectivity.

[0064] Furthermore, the modularity and reusability of the designs described herein enable rapid scalability for various forms of factors, thereby improving time to market. In fact, new systems and solutions can be deployed in just a few weeks using the building blocks disclosed herein.

[0065] As described above, each disclosed satellite antenna system is application agnostic and includes M UTEs, each including an antenna for generating an incoming signal in response to incoming satellite radio waves, or for transmitting an outgoing signal toward a receiver such as a satellite, a ground unit, multiple satellites, multiple ground units, and any combination thereof. As used herein, the term “application agnostic” means that the same UTE can be used in any application, for example, in a car, a bus, or a cruise ship.

[0066] As used herein, the term “electronically scanned array” means an electronically scanned array that generates radio wave beams that can be electronically steered in different directions without moving the antennas themselves; i.e., a computer-controlled array of antennas. It should be understood that the array may be controlled by a computer, a microcontroller, or an onboard processor.

[0067] As used herein, the term “die” is used in the context of integrated circuits and refers to a small block of semiconductor material on which a functional circuit is fabricated. Integrated circuits are typically manufactured in large quantities on a single wafer made of electronic-grade silicon or on other semiconductors through processes such as photolithography.

[0068] As used herein, the term “integrated circuit packaging” refers to the final stage of semiconductor device manufacturing, in which a block of semiconductor material is encapsulated within a support case that protects it from physical damage and corrosion. The case, known as a “package,” supports the electrical contacts that connect the device to a circuit board. As described herein, package materials are typically very lossy at RF frequencies, resulting in degradation of the RF signal passing through (e.g., from the die to the external environment of the package).

[0069] An overview and architecture of examples of satellite communication systems using various modular antenna systems to facilitate satellite-to-ground communication are described with reference to Figure 1. Various exemplary environments are described with reference to Figures 2A and 2B. Subsequently, examples of modular architectures of electronically scanned array antenna systems, including modules and panels constructed using inexpensive antenna elements, are described with reference to Figures 3 and 4, respectively. Examples of flat panel array antennas with low scanning loss at low elevation angles have several advantages over parabolic reflector antennas, and these examples are described with reference to Figures 5A to 8B. Subsequently, a more detailed description of antenna elements and the components, operation, and processes of exemplary modular electronically scanned array antenna systems is provided with reference to Figures 9 to 18.

[0070] Figure 1 shows a block diagram illustrating the general outline and configuration of a satellite communications system 100, including various examples of modular antenna array systems, according to one embodiment. More specifically, the satellite communications system 100 includes various examples of modular antenna systems configured to establish satellite and ground-to-ground communication links (or connections) using electronically scanned antenna arrays composed of inexpensive antenna (or user terminal) elements. As described herein, the various examples of modular antenna array systems can reduce the NRE costs associated with each new design by reusing the same or similar designs. Furthermore, the disclosed antenna elements enable manufacturers to reduce the total cost of the system on an unprecedented scale.

[0071] Although the satellite communication system 100 in Figure 1 shows a single satellite, it will be understood that the system can include any number of satellites. Furthermore, although various types of modular antenna array systems are shown for illustrative purposes, it will be understood that the configuration may include one or all of the examples of modular antenna array systems.

[0072] As shown in the example in Figure 1, the satellite communication system 100 includes a satellite 110 and various modular antenna array systems, including a modular gateway antenna system 115, modular satellite user terminal antenna systems 130 and 170, and modular radio antenna systems 140, 150 and 160. Each of the various modular antenna array systems includes at least one electronically scanned array antenna. In practice, the electronically scanned array antenna is modular and can therefore be formed in various sizes and performances using the inexpensive, reusable, and replaceable antenna elements described herein. In practice, the replaceable antenna elements described herein can be incorporated into larger antenna (or user terminal) modules. These antenna (or user terminal) modules can themselves be configured individually as electronically scanned array antennas or incorporated into larger antenna (or user terminal) panels for higher performance or higher throughput beam scanning, such as in satellite communications. As described herein, these electronically scanned array antennas utilize the same or similar design and manufacturing processes that facilitate the construction of scanning array antennas, thereby drastically reducing the overall cost of scanning array antenna systems.

[0073] In one embodiment, the satellite 110 is in geostationary orbit (GO), such as equatorial geostationary orbit (GEO), or non-geostationary orbit, such as low Earth orbit (LEO) or medium Earth orbit (MEO). The modular gateway antenna system 115 may be a modular electronically scanned array antenna system including a satellite communication panel 116. In practice, the satellite communication panel 116 is an antenna (or user terminal) panel formed together with a plurality of antenna (or user terminal) modules. This antenna module is formed together with a plurality of antenna (or user terminal) elements.

[0074] As shown in the example in Figure 1, the modular gateway antenna system 115 and the modular satellite user terminal antenna systems 130 and 170 communicate with satellite 110. The modular satellite user terminal antenna system 170 also communicates with user equipment 175. Furthermore, although the modular satellite user terminal antenna system 170 is shown as a separate unit, in some embodiments it can be integrated or combined with user equipment 175 to form a separate or single device, such as an integrated satellite transceiver, for example, a portable device having antenna (or user terminal) elements for direct communication with satellite 110.

[0075] Similarly, the modular satellite user terminal antenna system 130 communicates with the modular wireless antenna system 140, the modular wireless antenna system 150, and the user equipment 135. The modular wireless antenna system 140 communicates with the user equipment 145. Subsequently, the modular wireless antenna system 150 communicates with the user equipment 155 and the modular wireless antenna system 160. The modular wireless antenna system 160 further communicates with the user equipment 165.

[0076] User devices 135, 145, 155, 165, and 175 may be any device capable of communicating with a mobile device, telephone, smartphone, tablet, laptop computer, computer, wearable device, smartwatch, audiovisual device, Internet of Things (IoT) device, or modular antenna array system. Furthermore, user devices 135, 145, 155, 165, and 175 may be devices (e.g., access points, smart cells, etc.) used to communicate with one or more end-user devices (not shown).

[0077] During operation, various examples of modular antenna array systems communicate with user equipment via a bidirectional access link (having a forward access link and a return access link). Similarly, modular wireless antenna system 150 communicates with modular wireless antenna system 160 via a bidirectional access link (having a forward access link and a return access link). For example, the bidirectional access link may be an intercity link. An example of this intercity link is shown and described in more detail with reference to Figure 2A.

[0078] The modular gateway antenna system 115 may have access to the Internet 125 or one or more other types of public, semi-private, or private networks. As shown in the example in Figure 1, the modular gateway antenna system 115 communicates with infrastructure 120 that can access the Internet 125 or one or more other types of public, semi-private, or private networks. The modular gateway antenna system 115 may also be connected to various types of communication backhaul, including, for example, a terrestrial line network such as a fiber optic network or a public switched telephone network (not shown).

[0079] In one embodiment, the modular gateway antenna system 115 may be configured to communicate with other gateways via infrastructure 120, or to communicate without using infrastructure 120. Infrastructure 120 may include, in whole or in part, a network control center (NCC), a satellite control center (SCC), wired and / or wireless core networks, and / or other components or systems used to facilitate the operation of and / or communication with the satellite communication system 100.

[0080] The bidirectional communication between satellite 110 and the modular gateway antenna system 115 is called a feeder link, and the communication between satellite 110 and the modular satellite user terminal antenna systems 130 and 170 is called a bidirectional service link.

[0081] Figures 2A and 2B show block diagrams illustrating examples of satellite communication systems 200a and 200b, which include various modular antenna systems configured to establish satellite and ground-to-ground communication links (or connections) using electronically scanned antenna arrays formed with inexpensive antenna (or user terminal) elements, according to one embodiment.

[0082] First, referring to the example in Figure 2A, the satellite communication system 200a includes various modular antenna systems configured to establish satellite and ground-to-ground communication links (or connections) using electronically scanned antenna arrays formed with inexpensive antenna (or user terminal) elements. More specifically, the example in Figure 2A illustrates the use of various modular antenna systems described herein to provide intercity connectivity (e.g., intercity link 250).

[0083] Figure 2B shows an example in which infrastructure (e.g., lampposts) 260 can be adapted to or incorporated into the modular electronically scanned array antenna system described herein to establish or improve connectivity in a specific area or region. In one embodiment, the infrastructure (e.g., lampposts) 260 may be a self-contained unit. For example, the infrastructure 260 may be "plug-and-play." This allows the unit to be immediately operational after installation to provide connectivity to a fixed wireless system 270, for example, to nearby houses and schools in a town and other portable user devices 280 within range.

[0084] Figure 3 shows a block diagram illustrating an example of a modular architecture of an antenna module 300 formed using multiple antenna (or user terminal) elements 310 according to one embodiment. More specifically, the example in Figure 3 shows the antenna module 300 along with exploded views of example components of the antenna (or user terminal) elements 310. The antenna module 300 may be any of the antenna modules shown and described with reference to Figure 1, but other configurations are also possible. Furthermore, while the antenna (or user terminal) elements 310 and the antenna (or user terminal) module 300 are shown herein primarily with hexagonal elements, it should be understood that elements of other shapes (e.g., triangles, squares, circles, etc.) are also possible. Further examples of antenna (or user terminal) module configurations are shown and described in more detail below.

[0085] As shown in the example in Figure 3, the antenna (or user terminal) module 300 includes a plurality of antenna (or user terminal) elements 310 arranged on or within the structure 320. The antenna (or user terminal) elements 310 may be arranged on or within various configurations within the structure 320 to form the antenna module 300. Further examples of structures are shown and described in more detail below.

[0086] Referring again to Figure 3, each antenna (or user terminal) element 310 includes a radiator (or antenna) 312 and an active circuit 314. The active circuit 314 can be realized within the die and may include various components such as amplifiers, RF circuits, digital-to-analog (D / A) converters, and analog-to-digital (A / D) converters. Although not shown in the example in Figure 3, this die is larger than the die from conventional antenna elements. In fact, in one embodiment, the die occupies the same (or similar) area as the radiator (or antenna) element. As described herein, increasing the die size facilitates the integration of various components (e.g., RF circuits, digital-to-analog (D / A) converters, analog-to-digital (A / D) converters, etc.) that have not been realized in conventional antenna element dies due to design and dimensional limitations.

[0087] As described herein, conventionally, connecting a radiator (or antenna) 312 and an active circuit 314 requires at least two, and often three or more, lossy radio frequency (RF) transition sections. When these are stacked on top of each other, these lossy RF transition sections cause signal degradation of up to half of the total signal power, for example, up to 3 dB. The embodiments described herein reduce or eliminate these lossy RF transition sections by embedding or integrating the radiator (or antenna) 312 with the active circuit 314.

[0088] Furthermore, the antenna elements described herein integrate various components into the active circuit 314 compared to conventional antenna elements for phased array antenna systems. For example, the antenna elements described herein integrate the RF circuit, D / A converter, and A / D converter into the active circuit 314. Also, various components of conventional antenna elements (e.g., phase shifters) are no longer necessary.

[0089] In one embodiment, the radiator (or antenna) 312 and the active circuit 314 are integrated or embedded within a single die (e.g., a silicon die) and packaged together to eliminate the lossy RF transition section. Hereinafter, the single die is referred to as an antenna-on-chip (AOC) element. An AOC element may include an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) that can be implemented as an integrated circuit (IC). Various layers and components of example AOC elements are shown and described in more detail below.

[0090] In one embodiment, the radiator (or antenna) 312 and active circuit 314 are closely integrated but not mounted on a single die (e.g., silicon die) in order to reduce multiple high-loss RF transitions to a single high-loss RF transition, while making the components of the antenna element available via tape reels. Tape reels generally refer to the process of mounting surface-mount devices (SMDs) by filling each pocket of a pocket (or carrier) tape with these SMDs. For example, the units are typically sealed within the carrier tape with cover tape by heat or pressure. The carrier tape can then be wound around a reel for easier handling and transport. The reels are housed in reel boxes before being ultimately shipped to the customer. As described herein, the availability of components via tape reels reduces the cost of the increasing number of components required to create and build antenna elements at scale for modular beam scanning antenna array systems.

[0091] Furthermore, by closely integrating the radiator (or antenna) 312 and the active circuit 314, although not on a single die, it becomes easier to use three-dimensional (3D) printing technology to print the radiator (or antenna) 312. An example illustrating this integration is shown and explained in more detail below.

[0092] Figure 4 shows a block diagram illustrating an example of a modular architecture of an antenna (or user terminal) panel 400 formed using multiple antenna modules 300 according to one embodiment. As used herein, the antenna panel 400 is sometimes referred to as a UTP (User Terminal Panel). More specifically, the example in Figure 4 shows an antenna (or user terminal) panel 400 formed using multiple antenna modules 300 as shown in Figure 3. The antenna (or user terminal) panel 400 may be any of the antenna panels shown and described with reference to Figure 1 (e.g., satellite communication panels 112, 114, 116, or 132), but other configurations are also possible. Furthermore, while the antenna modules 300 are primarily shown with hexagonal elements in this specification, it will be understood that other shapes, such as triangles, squares, circles, and combinations or variations thereof, are also possible.

[0093] Another advantage of the disclosed embodiments is that different user terminal elements can be selected to accommodate each user terminal module. Many antennas are resonant devices, which operate efficiently in a relatively narrow frequency band. Antennas need to be tuned (matched) to the same frequency band as the wireless system to which they are connected; otherwise, reception and / or transmission will be hindered. The disclosed embodiments make it possible to tune each of several UTEs to one or more of several frequency bands. In one embodiment, each UTE on the first UTM is tuned to the first frequency band in order to maximize the throughput of radio signals communicated by the UTEs on the first UTM in the first frequency band. In another embodiment, each UTE on the first UTM is tuned to different frequency bands in order to maximize the various frequency bands over which radio waves are communicated by the UTEs on the first UTM.

[0094] As described herein, an antenna (user terminal) panel may be formed or configured from multiple antenna modules based on a specific application. For example, larger panels may be required for high-performance commercial and consumer beam scanning applications that require long-range communication or applications that require high levels of throughput. Advantageously, these antenna (or user terminal) panels can be modularly constructed using interchangeable building blocks, such as antenna (user terminal) modules and / or antenna (user terminal) elements, thus eliminating the need for custom design.

[0095] Figure 5A shows an antenna system having multiple antenna panels for communicating with satellites at various different elevation angles, according to one embodiment. As shown, the antenna (FPA) system 500 includes a main panel surrounded by four cornered side panels. Also shown are satellite 502 at an elevation angle of 90 degrees, satellite 504 at an elevation angle of 45 degrees, and satellite 506 at an elevation angle of 0 degrees.

[0096] During operation, the antenna system 500 communicates with satellite 502, which is positioned at an elevation angle of 90 degrees, primarily using its main panel, with parts of its four side panels also visible to the satellite and used for communication. The FPA antenna system 500 communicates with satellite 504, which is positioned at an elevation angle of 45 degrees, using parts of its main panel as well as parts of its two side panels B and C for communication. The FPA antenna system 500 communicates with satellite 506, which is positioned at 0 degrees, using only side panel B. This side panel B is the only side of the antenna system 500 visible to satellite 506. Advantageously, in this way, satellite 500 can communicate with satellites at any elevation angle between 0 and 90 degrees.

[0097] It should be noted that side panels A, B, C, and D can be assembled from the same UTM module as the main panel. Panels can be manufactured in different dimensions and shapes to optimize them for different applications, such as round and rectangular shapes. The height and / or width can be increased to increase the area of ​​the side panels.

[0098] Figure 5B shows several flat panel array antennas according to one embodiment. Several fixed-dimension flat panel array (FPA) antennas are shown: tent 552, flat-top pyramid 554, triangular pyramid 556, triangular pyramid with side panels 558, geodesic dome 560, and mixed spline 562. With the exception of 552, all of these fixed-dimension FPA antennas can establish connections with satellites at any azimuth and elevation angle. With the exception of tent 552, none of the fixed-dimension FPA antennas have moving parts, which reduces the possibility of failure.

[0099] Also illustrated are a mechanically assisted FPA antenna consisting of a tilt panel 564, a flat-top pyramid 566 with movable wings, an octagonal main panel 568 with eight folded wings, and a main panel 570 with a reflector (shown as 572 in the side view). During operation, actuators 1 and 2 rotate the tilt panel 564 around a pivot point along the x and y axes so that the antenna system can be oriented towards the satellite for all elevation angles. The flat-top pyramid 566 includes four actuators (not shown) that move one of the four wings (wing A, wing B, wing C, and wing D) to attempt to position itself in an arbitrary plane perpendicular to the line of sight to the satellite. The octagonal pyramid 568 with movable sides also includes actuators (not shown) that move the sides to attempt to position themselves in an arbitrary plane perpendicular to the line of sight to the satellite. Similarly, the main panel 570 with a reflector includes four actuators (not shown) that move the reflector to transfer the connection to the satellite to the main panel. Advantageously, all four mechanically assisted FPA antennas, 564, 566, 568, and 570, can establish connections with satellites at any azimuth and elevation angle. In addition, the 566 and 568 have the advantage of being able to increase gain where signals from the main panel and wings are combined when the wings are folded back to the level of the main panel.

[0100] Figure 5C is a graph showing the relative antenna gain contributions of the main panel and side panels as a function of the satellite's elevation angle. As shown in the figure, graph 575 shows the antenna gain as a function of elevation angle. At an elevation angle of 90 degrees, the antenna gain is considered to be entirely attributable to the main panel gain 580. At an elevation angle of 0 degrees, the antenna gain is considered to be entirely attributable to the side panel gain 585. At other elevation angles, both the main panel gain 580 and the side panel gain 585 contribute to the total gain 590.

[0101] A threshold of 595 for satellite connectivity is also provided, which in one embodiment is used by the FPA antenna to determine whether a connection with the satellite has been established, as shown in Figure 8B. If it is determined that a connection has been established, the connection can be maintained.

[0102] Furthermore, a threshold of 595 for satellite connectivity in one embodiment is used by the FPA antenna to determine whether it is worthwhile to continue using the UTE to communicate with the satellite. If it is not worthwhile, it may be considered that it is not worthwhile to consume the power required to keep the UTE running. If the signal strength of the satellite communication is lower than the threshold of 595 for satellite connectivity, the UTE can be powered off to save power. It should be understood that antenna gain is directly proportional to the effective antenna area visible to the satellite. In one embodiment, the main panel provides sufficient gain, and only the main panel is powered on and used, with one or more side panels powered off. In another embodiment, when the satellite is at a low elevation angle, only one or more side panels are used, and the main panel can be powered off to save power.

[0103] Figure 6 shows several embodiments of the effective antenna area of ​​flat panel array antennas. A flat panel array antenna 602 with side-parted triangular panels is shown with an effective antenna area of ​​604, an FPA antenna 606 with side-parted hexagonal panels has a hexagonal effective antenna area of ​​608, and an FPA antenna 610 with side-parted octagonal panels has an octagonal effective antenna area of ​​612. During operation, each effective antenna area can be calculated as the sum of the projected areas visible from each satellite of the N UTMs. Each projected area includes the linear projection of the UTM surface onto an arbitrary plane perpendicular to the line of sight to the satellites. Here, for simplification, each satellite is shown positioned at an elevation angle of 90 degrees, directly above the FPA antenna. Therefore, none of the side portions of the FPA antenna are visible from the satellites, and the effective antenna area essentially coincides with the surface area of ​​the main panel of the FPA antenna.

[0104] Figure 7 shows an example of how to obtain the projected area. The scenario shown in Figure 6 is a simple calculation because the satellite is positioned directly above the FPA antenna. If the satellite is positioned at a different elevation angle, for example 45 degrees, or if the FPA antenna surface is positioned at a certain angle, the effective antenna area will be smaller than the total surface area of ​​the FPA antenna panels. In contrast, the FPA antenna 704 is a tilted panel antenna with its top surface tilted at an angle θ. Here, satellite 702 is positioned directly above the FPA antenna 704, and the effective antenna area 706 visible to satellite 702 is the actual surface area of ​​the top panel multiplied by cosθ. On the other hand, satellite 703 is positioned horizontally at an elevation angle of 0 degrees. The effective antenna area 708 visible to satellite 703 is smaller than the total area of ​​the main panels of the FPA antenna and is equal to the area of ​​the top panel multiplied by sinθ.

[0105] Figure 8A shows a method of using an antenna system to communicate with a satellite at an arbitrary elevation angle according to one embodiment. As shown, process 800 begins at 802. In operation 804, the process asks to position an antenna system comprising one or more panels, each panel comprising a plurality of N UTMs arranged in either a fixed or mechanically assisted dimensional shape, the N UTMs comprising M UTEs, the M UTEs comprising M antennas and M active circuits, each antenna generating an incoming signal in response to incident radio waves received from the satellite or transmitting an outgoing signal toward the satellite, each active circuit processing the incoming and outgoing signals, and the antenna system further comprising one or more sensors that measure the total connection signal strength of the N UTMs toward the satellite. In operation 806, the process asks to use a control circuit to control the signal processing performed by the M active circuits. In operation 808, the process determines whether the total connection signal strength meets the threshold for satellite connectivity, and if not, it requests adjustments to one or more of N, M, and position to adjust the effective antenna area visible to the satellite until the total connection signal strength meets the threshold for satellite connectivity. The satellite is located at an elevation angle between 0 and 90 degrees. In one embodiment, though not shown, the FPA antenna transmits a ping signal to the satellite, and the FPA antenna then receives a response from the satellite to the ping signal.

[0106] In one embodiment, if the total connection signal strength is insufficient for satellite connection, the method requires adjusting one or more of N, M, and position to adjust the effective antenna area visible to the satellite until the signal strength meets the requirements. The satellite is located at an elevation angle between 0 and 90 degrees.

[0107] Figure 8B shows a method performed by an FPA to connect to a satellite at an arbitrary elevation angle according to one embodiment. As shown, the flat panel array (FPA) antenna performs method 850, starting from 852. In operation 854, the FPA antenna powers on N UTMs. One or more of the N UTMs are foldable, and the N UTMs contain M UTEs. Each of the M UTEs has an antenna that generates an incoming signal in response to incident radio waves from the satellite or transmits an outgoing signal to the satellite, and an active circuit that processes the incoming and outgoing signals. The M UTEs are further coupled to one or more signal strength sensors that measure the strength of the connection to the satellite. In operation 856, the FPA antenna accesses the satellite's azimuth and elevation angles. In operation 858, the FPA antenna uses actuators to fold one or more foldable UTMs perpendicular to the satellite. In operation 860, it transmits a ping signal to the satellite. In operation 862, the FPA antenna receives a response from the satellite to the ping signal. In operation 864, the FPA antenna uses one or more signal strength sensors to determine if the cumulative signal strength received from the satellite by M UTEs meets the connection threshold. In operation 866, the FPA antenna maintains the connection with the satellite.

[0108] Figure 9 shows a block diagram illustrating an example of a system (beam scanning antenna) for transmitting and receiving satellite radio signals for a particular application, according to one embodiment. As shown, the satellite antenna system 900 includes a mechanical chassis 904 containing user terminal (UT) modules 906A, 906B through 906N (where N is equal to 16). Each UT module contains 16 daisy-chained UTEs. These are examples of UTE 310, each containing an antenna 312 and an active circuit 314. In other embodiments, more than 16 UTEs are daisy-chained, as shown, for example, in Figures 11B and 11C. The processing performed by the active circuits of the UTEs is controlled by a UT control 908.

[0109] As shown in the figure, each combiner receives signals from four UTMs, so the 16 UTMs supply 16 analog signals from the first-level RF combiners 910A and 910B to 910X (where X is equal to 4). The second-level RF combiner 912 combines the signals from the first level. It should be noted that in other embodiments, there may be more or fewer combiners. It should also be noted that the number of combiner levels may vary. In other words, although two-level combiners are shown in Figure 9, in other embodiments, there may be more or fewer levels.

[0110] Furthermore, UT antennas 916A, 916B through 916M are shown. Here, M is equal to 256, N is equal to 16, and the number of UTEs per O and UTM is equal to 16.

[0111] During operation, the satellite antenna system 900 provides satellite communications for personal computer applications. In this case, the satellite antenna system 900 communicates with satellite 210, which is shown as including a satellite communications panel 214.

[0112] In one embodiment, each of the M antennas of M UTEs is tuned to one or more of several different frequency bands. In another embodiment, each of the antennas of each UT module is identical. As shown, the incoming signals received from each UTE's antenna are analog voltages, each of the M active circuits receives, processes, and generates output signals having analog voltages, and each of the N UTMs generates an analog signal that is combined with analog signals from other UTMs. The received radio signals are transmitted from the RF combiner 912 to the modem (receiver) 914, which then supplies these signals to a device 916 such as a TV or internet receiver.

[0113] One embodiment reduces the cost and area required for routing by sending digital control signals along a daisy-chain of active circuits, rather than routing them from the control circuit to each active circuit. In particular, in one embodiment, digital control signals, clock, and power pass between modules using input and output buffers such as buffers 1010 and 1012 in Figure 10. In such a scenario, the system cost can be further reduced by using only one controller circuit to control multiple active circuits in the daisy-chain, leveraging the daisy-chain concept.

[0114] In some such scenarios, the daisy-chain passes digital control signals, power signals, and clock signals. Analog processing is performed by combiners such as combiners 910A-N and 912 in Figure 9. In one embodiment, signals from each UTM are returned to the controller via the daisy-chain, and the controller monitors the signals to measure the health of the system.

[0115] Figure 10 shows a block diagram illustrating an example of a user terminal module, a user terminal control module, and an amplitude adjustment buffer according to one embodiment. As shown, system 1000 is an example of a UT control 908 and one of the UTMs 906A-906N in Figure 9. Here, UTM 1006 includes 16 UTEs 1002A-1002P. UTM 1006 is configured to receive incoming signals from buffer 1010, supply signals to be processed through a daisy-chain of UTEs, and supply outgoing signals through buffer 1012. Buffers 1010 and 1012 are connected to a controller board 1008, which serves applications on a personal computer 1014, a modem board, a network adapter, and other electronic devices. In one embodiment, the controller board 1008 monitors the health of the system by monitoring one or more signal characteristics of the signals received from buffer 1012.

[0116] Figures 11A to 11C show block diagrams illustrating user terminal modules interconnected in various configurations according to one embodiment. It should be noted that the antennas used in the disclosed antenna system can be selected based on various criteria, including target frequency range, target polarization, and target beam direction. For example, as described above, an antenna tuned to a specific frequency range, such as the Ku-Ka frequency band, can be selected. Furthermore, an antenna can be selected based on the polarization of the received signal (horizontal polarization, vertical polarization, left circular polarization, or right circular polarization). Furthermore, an antenna can be selected based on the tuned beam direction. According to these criteria, one embodiment selects modules having identical antennas. Another embodiment divides the UTEs on the UTM into two or more groups, with the antennas within each group having identical characteristics. User terminal elements (UTEs) can be selected based on frequency, polarization, and tuned beam direction.

[0117] Figure 11A shows a block diagram illustrating an example of multiple user terminal modules and a user terminal control module according to one embodiment. Here, the antenna system 1100 includes four UTMs 1102, 1104, 1106, and 1108, each of which includes a daisy chain of 16 UTEs on its respective module. UTM 1102 includes a daisy chain of UTEs 1112A to 1112P. UTM 1104 includes a daisy chain of UTEs 1114A to 1114P. UTM 1106 includes a daisy chain of UTEs 1116A to 1116P. UTM 1108 includes a daisy chain of UTEs 1118A to 1118P. Here, each of the four UTMs (1102, 1104, 1106, and 1108) has a separate connection to the controller board 1101-1, which serves the applications of the personal computer 1101-2.

[0118] Figure 11B shows a block diagram illustrating an example of multiple user terminal modules and a user terminal control module according to one embodiment. Here, the antenna system 1120 includes 16 UTMs classified into four groups: UTMs 1122-1 to 4, 1124-1 to 4, 1126-1 to 4, and 1128-1 to 4. Each of the four groups of UTMs includes a daisy-chain of 64 UTEs across the stack. For example, the first group includes daisy-chained modules 1122-1, 1122-2, 1122-3, and 1122-4. UTM 1122-1 includes 16 UTEs 1132A to 1132P. UTMs 1122-2, 1122-3, and 1122-4 each include 16 UTEs (not shown here). However, Figure 11C shows all four UTMs 1122-1, 1122-2, 1122-3, and 1122-4, along with the 16 UTEs included on each UTM. The output of UTM 1122-1 is connected to the input of UTM 1122-2, and finally, the output of UTM 1122-4 is connected again to controller board 1121-1, which is connected to computer 1121-2. Similarly, UTM 1124-1 is shown to include UTEs 1134A-1134P, UTM 1126-1 is shown to include UTEs 1136A-1136P, and UTM 1128-1 is shown to include UTEs 1138A-1138P. Modules 1122-1~4, 1124-1~4, 1126-1~4, and 1128-1~4 are shown in a stacked configuration in Figure 11B, but it should be understood that when in use, the modules may be arranged so as not to overlap, allowing them to transmit and receive signals and not being obstructed by other modules.

[0119] Similar to the system in Figure 11A, the UTM stack has four connections to the controller board 1121-1. In contrast to the system in Figure 11A, the daisy-chain consists of 64 UTEs. By daisy-chaining four stacks of UTMs, four times the number of UTEs can be controlled by the controller board 1121-1, thereby reducing the cost per UTE in the system. According to the disclosed embodiment, any number of UTMs can be daisy-chained in series. The system 1120 can be scaled by inserting additional UTMs into the daisy-chain.

[0120] Figure 11C is a block diagram showing the stack of UTMs 1122-1 to 1122-4 in Figure 11B. As shown, the controller board 1141-1 is connected to supply input to the first UTM 1122-1 of the four stacked UTMs and to receive output from the fourth UTM 1122-4 of the four stacked UTMs. In such an embodiment, a daisy chain of 64 active circuits can perform signal processing and route control along the daisy chain. Also shown is UTM 1122-2, which includes 16 UTEs and continues the daisy chain by receiving the output of UTM 1122-1. Also shown is UTM 1122-3, which includes 16 UTEs and continues the daisy chain by receiving the output of UTM 1122-2. Also shown is UTM 1122-4, which includes 16 UTEs and continues the daisy chain by receiving the output of UTM 1122-3. The UTM1122-4 completes a daisy-chain of 64 UTEs by returning its output to the controller board 1141-1.

[0121] Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view of an antenna printed circuit board mounted on a module printed circuit board connected to a controller board used in a beam scanning antenna according to one embodiment. As shown, the cross-sectional view 1200 includes an antenna PCB 1202, a module PCB 1206, and a control PCB 1208. A UT antenna element is also placed on the antenna PCB 1202. Similarly, an active circuit element is placed on the module PCB 1206 to be controlled by a control circuit on the control PCB 1208 and configured to perform the operation described herein, for example, as described with respect to Figure 8.

[0122] Figure 13 shows plan and perspective views of an antenna board mounted on a module board used in a beam scanning antenna according to one embodiment. Assembly 1300 is shown in both a plan view showing the antenna board 1302 and a perspective view showing both the antenna board 1302 and the module board 1306.

[0123] Figure 14 shows typical components and connectors used to assemble a beam scanning array system according to one embodiment. As shown, component 1400 includes an antenna element 1405, an SMP connector 1410, a printed circuit board 1415, and a connector 1420. It should be noted that the parts used to construct the demonstration product are expected to be available at minimal cost.

[0124] Figure 15 shows an exemplary structure 1500 used to form an antenna (or user terminal) module according to one embodiment. More specifically, the example in Figure 15 shows a structure in which seven antenna (or user terminal) elements 1510 are arranged. The exemplary structure 1500 may be the structure 320 in Figure 3, but other configurations are also possible. Although not shown in the example in Figure 15, one or more of the exemplary structures can be fixed to a baseboard to form a high-performance scanning array antenna system.

[0125] Figure 16 shows an exemplary structure 1600 used to form an antenna (or user terminal) module according to one embodiment. Exemplary structure 1600 is similar to exemplary structure 1500 in Figure 15, but is designed to more securely hold the antenna (or user terminal) element 1618 in the appropriate position. Furthermore, as shown in the example in Figure 16, exemplary structure 1600 is completely occupied by the antenna (or user terminal) element 1610.

[0126] Figure 17 shows an example of a configuration in which multiple ground user terminals are composed of a modular satellite user terminal antenna system to improve the range and speed for real-time image acquisition applications.

[0127] Today, image acquisition is primarily done through satellite LEO constellations. However, the coverage of image acquisition typically depends on how many satellites are included, and satellites may need to wait several minutes to several hours to cover different parts of the Earth. That is, satellite 1710 must traverse a specific path on Earth and wait until it can establish communication with a ground terminal 1720 (e.g., a fixed-beam dish antenna solution or gateway) before it can send the acquired images back to Earth. As mentioned above, there are typically one to five ground terminals 1720 along a particular path, and therefore considerable latency occurs in image processing.

[0128] As described herein, many low-cost beamforming terminals can be used to replace a few expensive fixed-beam dish antenna solutions to facilitate real-time or near-real-time image acquisition.

[0129] Figure 18 shows an example of a synthetic aperture ground user terminal consisting of multiple modular satellite user terminal antenna systems according to one embodiment.

[0130] To acquire high-quality images, satellites need to have extremely large antenna sizes. Satellites typically achieve this by implementing synthetic aperture radar (SAR). For example, a small satellite acquires images while moving and then reintegrates the data as if it were a large aperture. The satellite then has very large files, and extremely large ground terminals (several meters in size) are required to receive these quickly on the ground. For example, large dish-shaped antennas costing millions of dollars are often used for this purpose.

[0131] The example in Figure 18 shows a synthetic aperture ground user terminal composed of many user terminals located several meters or at any distance apart, which collectively receive and combine data to effectively create a large overall ground terminal. By utilizing this configuration, gigabytes of data can be received in seconds, and even live video streams of satellite-acquired images are possible.

[0132] The example in Figure 19 shows a ground user terminal consisting of a modular satellite user terminal antenna system 1902 with an additional feed horn 1904 used to extend the range of elevation angles covered compared to a single FPA. The feed horn enables the transmission and reception of signals at elevation angles that the FPA cannot cover.

[0133] Alternatively, in one embodiment, a single mobile terminal (for example, on a vehicle) can move around to create a larger terminal overall.

[0134] Further Examples

[0135] The following examples describe various examples of the configuration and embodiments of the disclosed invention described above.

[0136] Embodiment 1 provides an exemplary antenna system comprising P UTPs, each containing N UTMs arranged in either a fixed or mechanically assisted dimensional shape, wherein the N UTMs each contain M UTEs, and the M UTEs each contain M antennas and M active circuits, each antenna generating an incoming signal in response to incident radio waves received from the satellite or transmitting an outgoing signal toward the satellite, each active circuit processing the incoming and outgoing signals and including a control circuit for controlling the signal processing performed by the M active circuits, and the connection can be maintained by adjusting N and M to adjust the effective antenna area visible from the satellite and the corresponding throughput of the connection thereto, the satellite being located at an elevation angle between zero and 90 degrees.

[0137] Example 2 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 1, wherein the effective antenna area includes the sum of the projected surfaces of the UTP visible from the satellite, and each projected area includes the linear projection of the antenna panel surface onto an arbitrary plane perpendicular to the line of sight to the satellite.

[0138] Embodiment 3 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Embodiment 1, wherein each UTE antenna further generates an incoming signal in response to incident radio waves received from the second satellite, or transmits an outgoing signal toward the second satellite, and can adjust the second effective antenna area visible from the second satellite and the corresponding throughput of the second connection to the second satellite, and can maintain the second connection by adjusting N and M so as to scale, the second satellite is located at an elevation angle between zero and 90 degrees, and the antenna system maintains multibeam connections with both the first satellite and the second satellite.

[0139] Example 4 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 1, wherein the P UTPs are arranged in a fixed-dimensional shape, and the fixed-dimensional shape is one of a tent, a main panel with multiple side UTPs, a triangular UTE pyramid, a triangular UTE pyramid with side UTPs, a geodesic tile dome, and a structure with multiple splines.

[0140] Embodiment 5 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Embodiment 1, wherein the P UTPs include a main panel connected to a plurality of side UTPs, each including at least one foldable side UTP, the antenna system further includes one or more actuators connected to the at least two foldable side UTPs, and the control circuit further causes the one or more actuators to adjust the angles of the at least two foldable side UTPs.

[0141] Embodiment 6 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Embodiment 5, and further includes a sensor for measuring the signal strength of each UTE, a connection to the satellite, and a user interface for providing feedback that reflects the strength of the UTE connection, and further includes the contents of an exemplary display used by the control circuit to adjust one or more side panel angles, wherein the user interface is configured to receive an indication of the elevation angle of the satellite.

[0142] Example 7 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 5, wherein the control circuit is further configured to attempt to conserve power by turning off the power to one or more inoperable side UTPs.

[0143] Example 8 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 5, wherein the control circuit is further configured to adjust one or more side panel angles to maximize the effective antenna area visible from a moving satellite.

[0144] Example 9 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 5, further comprising one or more reflectors, each reflector positioned to reflect the connection with the satellite to one or more of the UTMs.

[0145] Embodiment 10 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Embodiment 5, wherein the control circuit is further configured to control the multibeam connection of the antenna system with multiple satellites by either dedicating each of the side UTPs to the first satellite, combining them with one or more other side UTPs connected to the first satellite, or switching the connection between the first satellite and the second satellite.

[0146] Example 11 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 1, wherein P is equal to 2, and the first UTP and the second UTP are arranged in the shape of an A-frame tent, the A-frame tent having an adjustable ridge height.

[0147] Example 12 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 1, wherein the antenna system is arranged as a flat-top pyramid having one main UTP and four side UTPs.

[0148] Example 13 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 1, wherein the antenna system is arranged as a tipi having a hexagonal base and six triangular side UTPs.

[0149] Example 14 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 1, the antenna system including six upper triangular UTPs and six side UTPs, the six side UTPs arranged in a hexagonal shape.

[0150] Example 15 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 1, wherein the antenna system is arranged in the shape of a geodesic dome and includes a plurality of UTPs.

[0151] Example 16. The antenna system of Example 1, wherein the antenna system includes an octagonal main panel directly above a plurality of layers of concentric octagonal spline UTPs, the layers of which gradually increase in diameter.

[0152] Example 17 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 1, the antenna system including a flat main panel configured to tilt around a pivot point, the antenna system further including a first actuator connected to a first side of the main panel and a second actuator connected to a second adjacent side of the main panel, the first and second actuators configured to adjust the title of the main panel.

[0153] Embodiment 18 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Embodiment 1, wherein the antenna system is arranged as a flat-top pyramid having one main UTP and four foldable wing UTPs, and each of the four foldable wing UTPs is connected to an actuator configured to adjust the angle of the foldable wing UTP relative to the main UTP.

[0154] Example 19 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 1, the antenna system including an octagonal main panel connected to eight foldable wing UTPs, each of which is connected to an actuator configured to adjust one or more angles of the wing UTP.

[0155] Example 20 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 1, the antenna system including a rectangular main panel connected to four foldable reflectors, each foldable reflector being connected to an actuator configured to adjust the angle of the reflector so as to reflect incident satellite signals off the main panel.

[0156] Example 21 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 1, the antenna system including four side UTPs arranged as a pyramid, but having an open top surface instead of a flat panel top surface.

[0157] Example 22 includes the contents of the exemplary antenna system of Example 1, the antenna system including four side UTPs arranged as a tipi with an open top surface.

[0158] Example 23 is an exemplary method for connecting an antenna system to a satellite, wherein the antenna system is positioned at a certain location, and the antenna system comprises P UTPs, each containing N UTMs, which are positioned in a fixed or mechanically assisted dimensional shape, the N UTMs each containing M UTEs, the M UTEs each containing M antennas and M active circuits, each antenna generating an incoming signal in response to incident radio waves received from the satellite or transmitting an outgoing signal toward the satellite, each active circuit processing the incoming and outgoing signals, and signal processing performed by the M active circuits. The antenna system includes a control circuit for controlling the signal processing performed by the M active circuits, and further includes one or more sensors for measuring the total connection signal strength of the N UTMs to the satellite, and determines whether the total connection signal strength satisfies a threshold for satellite connection, and if it does not, adjusts the effective antenna area visible to the satellite by adjusting N, M, and one or more of the positions until the total connection signal strength satisfies the threshold for satellite connection, and the satellite is positioned at an elevation angle between zero and 90 degrees.

[0159] Example 24 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein the effective antenna area includes the sum of the projection surfaces of the P panels visible from the satellite, and each projection area is a linear projection of the UTP surface onto an arbitrary plane perpendicular to the line of sight to the satellite.

[0160] Example 25 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein each panel further generates an incoming signal in response to incident radio waves received from the second satellite, or transmits an outgoing signal toward the second satellite, and the N and M can be adjusted as the second effective antenna area visible from the second satellite and the corresponding throughput of the second connection to the second satellite, the method further adjusts N and M to maintain the second connection, the second satellite is positioned at an elevation angle between zero and 90 degrees, and the antenna system maintains a multibeam connection with both the satellite and the second satellite.

[0161] Example 26 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein the P UTPs are arranged in a fixed-dimensional shape, and the fixed-dimensional shape is one of a tent, a main UTP with multiple side UTPs, a triangular UTP pyramid, a triangular UTP pyramid with side UTPs, a geodesic tile dome, and a structure with multiple splines.

[0162] Example 27. In the method of Example 23, the P UTPs include a main UTP connected to a plurality of side UTPs, each including at least two foldable side UTPs, the antenna system further includes one or more actuators connected to the at least two foldable side UTPs, and the control circuit further causes the one or more actuators to adjust the angles of the at least two foldable side UTPs.

[0163] Example 28 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 27, wherein the antenna system further includes a user interface, the method further provides feedback reflecting the total signal strength of the connection, provides a display of the satellite's azimuth and elevation angles using the user interface, operates one or more side UTPs by the control circuit using the display, and adjusts the angles of one or more side UTPs.

[0164] Example 29 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 27, and further includes the control circuit that attempts to save power by turning off the power to one or more inoperable side UTPs.

[0165] Example 30 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 27, and further includes the control circuit that adjusts one or more side panel angles to maximize the effective antenna area visible from a moving satellite.

[0166] Example 31 includes the details of the exemplary method of Example 27, wherein the antenna system further comprises one or more reflectors, each reflector positioned to reflect the connection with the satellite to one or more of the UTMs.

[0167] Example 32 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 27, and further uses the control circuit for controlling the multibeam connection of the antenna system with multiple satellites, wherein the control circuit either dedicates each of the side UTPs to the first satellite, combines them with one or more other side UTPs connected to the first satellite, or switches the connection between the first satellite and the second satellite.

[0168] Example 33 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein P is equal to 2, and the first UTP and the second UTP are arranged in the shape of an A-frame tent, the A-frame tent having an adjustable ridge height.

[0169] Example 34 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein the antenna system is arranged as a flat-top pyramid having one main UTP and four side UTPs.

[0170] Example 35 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein the antenna system is arranged as a hexagonal tipi having six triangular side UTPs.

[0171] Example 36 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein the antenna system is arranged as a tipi having a hexagonal base and six triangular side UTPs.

[0172] Example 37 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein the antenna system is arranged in the shape of a geodesic dome, and the antenna system includes a plurality of UTPs.

[0173] Example 38 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein the antenna system includes an octagonal main panel directly above multiple layers of concentric octagonal spline UTPs, the layers of which gradually increase in diameter.

[0174] Example 39 includes the details of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein the antenna system includes a flat main panel configured to tilt around a pivot point, and the antenna system further includes a first actuator connected to a first side of the main panel and a second actuator connected to a second adjacent side of the main panel, wherein the first and second actuators are configured to adjust the title of the main panel.

[0175] Example 40 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein the antenna system is arranged as a flat-top pyramid having one main UTP and four foldable wing UTPs, and each of the four foldable wing UTPs is connected to an actuator configured to adjust the angle of the foldable wing UTP relative to the main UTP.

[0176] Example 41 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein the antenna system includes an octagonal main panel connected to eight foldable wing UTPs, each of which is connected to an actuator configured to adjust one or more angles of the wing UTP.

[0177] Example 42 includes the embodiment of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein the antenna system includes a rectangular main panel connected to four foldable reflectors, each foldable reflector being connected to an actuator configured to adjust the angle of the reflector so as to reflect an incident satellite signal off the main panel.

[0178] Example 43 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 23, wherein the antenna system includes four side UTPs arranged as a pyramid, but has an open top surface instead of a flat panel top surface.

[0179] Example 44 is an exemplary method performed by an antenna system, The present invention provides a method for powering up N UTMs (User Terminal Modules) arranged on P UTPs (User Terminal Panels), one or more of the N UTMs being foldable, the N UTMs containing M UTEs (User Terminal Elements), each of the M UTEs having an antenna that generates an incoming signal in response to incoming radio waves from a satellite or transmits an outgoing signal to the satellite, and an active circuit that processes the incoming and outgoing signals, the M UTEs being further connected to one or more signal strength sensors that measure the strength of the connection to the satellite, accessing the satellite's azimuth and elevation angles, using actuators to fold the one or more foldable UTMs perpendicularly to the satellite, transmitting a ping signal toward the satellite, receiving a response to the ping signal from the satellite, using the one or more signal strength sensors to determine if the cumulative strength of the signals received from the satellite by the M UTEs satisfies a connection threshold, and maintaining the connection with the satellite.

[0180] Example 45 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 44, and further includes turning off the power to one or more UTEs that the signal strength sensor determines to be below a useful threshold when the signal strength sensor determines that the intensity of the signal received from the satellite is below a useful threshold.

[0181] Example 46 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 44, and further receives the azimuth angle and elevation angle of the satellite using a user interface, and further provides feedback using the user interface that the signal received from the satellite satisfies the connection threshold.

[0182] Example 47 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 44, wherein the azimuth angle and elevation angle are obtained from one or more of the following: an internet satellite list, a non-transient machine-readable medium, and memory.

[0183] Example 48. The method of Example 44, wherein P is equal to 2, and the first UTP and the second UTP are arranged in the shape of an A-frame tent, and the A-frame tent has an adjustable ridge height.

[0184] Example 49 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 44, wherein the antenna system is arranged as a flat-top pyramid having one main UTP and four side UTPs.

[0185] Example 50 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 44, wherein the antenna system is arranged as a tipi having a hexagonal base and six triangular side UTPs.

[0186] Example 51 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 44, wherein the antenna system is arranged as a tipi having a hexagonal base and six triangular side UTPs.

[0187] Example 52 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 44, wherein the antenna system is arranged in the shape of a geodesic dome, and the antenna system includes a plurality of UTPs.

[0188] Example 53 includes the details of the exemplary method of Example 44, wherein the antenna system includes an octagonal main panel directly above multiple layers of concentric octagonal spline UTPs, the layers of which gradually increase in diameter.

[0189] Embodiment 54 includes the details of the exemplary method of Embodiment 44, wherein the antenna system includes a flat main panel configured to tilt about a pivot point, and the antenna system further includes a first actuator connected to a first side of the main panel and a second actuator connected to a second adjacent side of the main panel, the first and second actuators configured to adjust the title of the main panel.

[0190] Example 55. The method of Example 44, wherein the antenna system is arranged as a flat-top pyramid having one main UTP and four foldable wing UTPs, and each of the four foldable wing UTPs is connected to an actuator configured to adjust the angle of the foldable wing UTP relative to the main UTP.

[0191] Example 56 includes the same method as described in Example 44, wherein the antenna system includes an octagonal main panel connected to eight foldable wing UTPs, each of which is connected to an actuator configured to adjust one or more angles of the wing UTP.

[0192] Example 57 includes the exemplary method of Example 44, wherein the antenna system includes a rectangular main panel connected to four foldable reflectors, each foldable reflector being connected to an actuator configured to adjust the angle of the reflector so as to reflect an incident satellite signal off the main panel.

[0193] Example 58 includes the contents of the exemplary method of Example 44, wherein the antenna system includes four side UTPs arranged as a pyramid, but has an open top surface instead of a flat panel top surface.

[0194] Example 59 includes an antenna system comprising one panel and one or more horn antennas.

[0195] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, aspects of the present invention may be embodied as systems, methods, or computer program products. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention may take the form of entirely hardware embodiments, entirely software embodiments (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or combined software and hardware embodiments. All of these may be collectively referred to herein as “circuits,” “modules,” or “systems.” Furthermore, aspects of the present invention may take the form of computer program products embodied in one or more computer-readable media having computer-readable code to be embodied.

[0196] The descriptions and figures contained herein illustrate specific embodiments to instruct those skilled in the art on how to manufacture and use the best mode. Some conventional suns have been simplified or omitted in order to illustrate the principles of the invention. Those skilled in the art will be able to conceive of variations from these embodiments that fall within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the features described above can be combined in various ways to form multiple embodiments. As a result, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, but is specified only by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. It is an antenna system, The system comprises two or more user terminal panels (UTPs), and each of the UTPs is: It includes one or more user terminal modules (UTMs), and each of the one or more UTMs is: It includes two or more user terminal elements (UTEs), and the two or more UTEs are One or more antennas, each configured to generate an incoming analog signal in response to incident radio waves received from a first satellite, or to transmit an outgoing analog signal toward the first satellite, Two or more active circuits, each configured to process the incoming analog signal and the outgoing analog signal. Includes, The aforementioned UTPs are, One or more sensors configured to measure the connection signal strength of the one or more UTMs to the first satellite, A control circuit, In order to change one or more characteristics of the incoming analog signal and the outgoing analog signal, a digital control signal is transmitted to the two or more active circuits of the UTE, which is routed along the daisy-chain of the two or more active circuits of the UTE. Switch the connection of at least one of the aforementioned UTPs from the first satellite to the second satellite. For the UTE of one or more UTMs, the power to the active circuit of the UTE that does not meet the connection signal strength threshold for satellite connection is turned off. A control circuit configured as follows Includes, Each of the two or more UTEs has a surface region formed by a part of the UTE, and each of the UTPs is oriented in a different direction from the others. Antenna system.

2. The antenna system according to claim 1, wherein the first UTP and the second UTP among the two or more UTPs are configured in a fixed-dimension shape with the first UTP and the second UTP rotated at different angles from each other.

3. The antenna system according to claim 2, wherein the first UTP and the second UTP are directed at an elevation angle between 0 and 90 degrees with respect to the Earth's horizon.

4. The antenna system according to claim 2, wherein the control circuit is further configured to electromechanically adjust the orientation of the first UTP and the second UTP in the azimuth plane.

5. The antenna system according to claim 1, further comprising a user interface configured to provide feedback reflecting the connection signal strength of the two or more UTEs.

6. A method for connecting an antenna system to a satellite, An antenna system including two or more user terminal panels (UTPs) is placed at a certain location, and each of the UTPs is: It includes one or more user terminal modules (UTMs), and each of the one or more UTMs is: It includes two or more user terminal elements (UTEs), and the two or more UTEs are One or more antennas, each configured to generate an incoming analog signal in response to incident radio waves received from a first satellite, or to transmit an outgoing analog signal toward the first satellite, Two or more active circuits, each configured to process the incoming analog signal and the outgoing analog signal. Includes, The aforementioned UTPs are, One or more sensors configured to measure the connection signal strength of the one or more UTMs to the first satellite. Includes, Each of the two or more UTEs has a surface region formed by a part of the UTE, and each of the UTPs is oriented in a different direction from the others. In order to change one or more characteristics of the incoming analog signal and the outgoing analog signal, a digital control signal is transmitted to the two or more active circuits of the UTE via a control circuit, which is routed along the daisy-chain of the two or more active circuits of the UTE. Switch the connection of at least one of the aforementioned UTPs from the first satellite to the second satellite. The connection signal strength of the connection to the first satellite is determined via the one or more sensors. If the determined connection signal strength does not meet the connection signal strength threshold for satellite connection, the power to the two or more UTEs that do not meet the connection signal strength threshold for satellite connection is turned off. method.

7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising coupling the arriving analog signals from two or more UTMs to increase the gain of the arriving analog signals.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the two or more UTPs include a main UTP and a side UTP.

9. The method according to claim 6, wherein the first UTP and the second UTP among the two or more UTPs are configured to have fixed dimensions, with the first UTP and the second UTP rotated at different angles from each other.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the first UTP and the second UTP are directed at an elevation angle between 0 and 90 degrees with respect to the Earth's horizon.

11. Furthermore, the method according to claim 9, wherein the orientations of the first UTP and the second UTP are electromechanically adjusted in the azimuthal plane.

12. The method according to claim 6, wherein the antenna system further comprises a user interface configured to provide feedback reflecting the connection signal strength of the one or more UTEs.

13. The antenna system according to claim 1, wherein the control circuit is further configured to control the power supplied to the two or more active circuits of the UTE, and the power is routed along the daisy-chain of the two or more active circuits of the UTE.

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