3D Phased Antenna Array With Hinged Calibration Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing on-vehicle radar systems face challenges in accurately calibrating three-dimensional antenna arrays due to environmental changes and mechanical complexities, leading to performance issues in estimating radar parameters like directions of arrival and Doppler shift, especially in automotive applications where temperature differentials and aging affect phase and gain.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional antenna array system with a hinged configuration and a hinged power transformer facilitates real-time phase and gain calibration by mechanically joining and electrically coupling antenna arrays, allowing for dynamic calibration without disconnecting or intrusively acting on the antennas, using a calibration circuit and external signal generator to inject RF pilot signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a 3D antenna array is configured with rotated antenna boards to improve spatial resolution, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for hinged mechanical joints and angled electrical coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna array is divided into multiple independent antenna boards that can be separately positioned and calibrated. Each board is an independent unit that can be rotated to specific angles, allowing the complex 3D structure to be managed as modular segments rather than a monolithic assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna boards are designed with hinged joints that allow dynamic positioning and rotation to different angles. This dynamic capability enables the antenna array to achieve various 3D configurations for improved spatial resolution while maintaining the ability to adapt and recalibrate positions as needed.
2Manufacturing precision
If antenna arrays are calibrated only once during vehicle production, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but reliability deteriorates due to temperature differentials and component aging during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system performs periodic calibration cycles during vehicle operation rather than a single initial calibration. The calibration circuit regularly injects test signals and adjusts phase and gain parameters to compensate for temperature changes and component aging, maintaining reliable performance throughout the vehicle's operational life.
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system uses feedback from measured phase and gain variations to automatically adjust antenna parameters. During operation, the system monitors performance degradation due to temperature differentials and aging, then applies corrective calibration signals to maintain accurate radar parameter estimation.
3Manufacturing precision
If intrusive actions are taken to disconnect antennas for calibration, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to system disruption
Solution Approach 1:
A calibration circuit serves as an intermediary component that enables calibration without disconnecting the antennas from the radar system. The calibration circuit injects test signals through existing connections and measures responses, allowing accurate calibration to be performed while the antennas remain connected and the system remains operational.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate and continuous calibration of phase and gain parameters, ensuring coherent operation of the radar system under varying conditions, enhancing the estimation of radar parameters and improving overall performance.
Implementation Method 1
the first antenna array is electrically coupled to the second antenna array via the hinged power transformer
Implementation Method 2
the hinged power transformer including a primary winding, a secondary winding, and a ferrite core
Data Source
AI summary
A three-dimensional (3D) antenna array system in the form of a phased array antenna having a first antenna array and a second antenna array, a calibration circuit including an external signal generator, and a hinged power transformer is described. The external signal generator is electrically connected to the first antenna array, and the first antenna array is electrically coupled to the second antenna array via the hinged power transformer. The hinged power transformer mechanically joins the first antenna array to the second antenna array in one of a first position and a second position, with the first antenna array being disposed at an angle in relation to the second antenna array when the hinged power transformer is disposed in the first position.