Active Array Antenna Distributed Control Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current active array antenna systems for radar and communication systems, particularly in space and airborne applications, face challenges in achieving lighter weight, lower cost, and greater conformality due to complex architectures and multilayer structures, which hinder efficient beam steering and data distribution.
Innovation Solution
A distributed control system for active array antennas is introduced, featuring a central processor and slave beam steering controllers that generate command signals to steer array beams using phase slope data, with each T/R module equipped with a beam steering control function to convert phase slope data into phase shift settings, and utilizing a single layer of flexible circuit board with integrated RF, control, and power distribution to reduce weight and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a distributed control system with beam steering control function is integrated into each T/R module, then beam steering efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the beam steering control function directly into each T/R module, merging the phase shifter control logic with the RF signal processing functions. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate external control circuits for each element, improving beam steering efficiency while managing complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The T/R module is designed as a universal building block that handles multiple functions: RF signal amplification, phase shifting for beam steering, and local control processing. This multi-functionality allows identical modules to be replicated across the array, simplifying the overall system architecture despite the enhanced capabilities of individual modules.
2Weight of moving object
If a single layer of flexible circuit board is used with integrated RF, control, and power distribution, then weight is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines RF signal paths, control signal lines, and power distribution traces into a single flexible circuit board layer. This integration eliminates the need for multiple separate layers or boards, significantly reducing the overall weight of the array structure while concentrating manufacturing requirements into a single fabrication process.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of a flexible circuit board instead of rigid multi-layer PCB structures reduces weight and allows conformal mounting on non-planar surfaces. The flexible substrate enables the array to be deployed on airships and other non-rigid structures, achieving weight reduction while maintaining electrical performance through careful trace routing and impedance control.
3Speed
If phase slope data is distributed to all T/R modules for beam steering, then beam steering speed is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the beam steering control function into segments distributed across each T/R module. Each module independently processes phase slope data to adjust its local phase shifter, enabling parallel beam steering operations that achieve fast response times. This segmentation allows the system to process control data efficiently across the entire array simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
Each T/R module contains the beam steering control function locally, allowing it to autonomously adjust its phase shift based on received phase slope data without requiring continuous external control signals. This self-service capability reduces the power consumption of the central control system while maintaining fast beam steering performance through distributed autonomous operation.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C
AI summary
A distributed control system for an active array antenna system is disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the array system employs many transmit/receive (T/R) modules each with an associated radiator element, a phase shifter element and a set of RF switch elements to set the module to transmit or receive modes. The array system is arranged to generate a transmit or receive array beam. The distributed control system in an exemplary embodiment includes an array processor for controlling the array, the processor configured to generate command signals to set the T/R module elements to transmit or receive mode and to steer the array beam to a desired direction. The command signals to steer the array beam include phase slopes common to all T/R modules in a given array or subarray. Each T/R module includes a beam steering control function configured to convert the phase slope data to phase data to set the phase shifter element for that T/R module to a phase shift setting for the beam direction associated with the phase slope index data.