Adaptive Nulling Parasitic Array Antenna Beamforming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parasitic array antennas require complex and expensive solutions for beamforming, which involves forming directional beams and nulls, and there is a need for a low-cost alternative.
Innovation Solution
A parasitic array antenna system with a ground plane, a driven element, and an array of parasitic elements positioned around the driven element, where a controller selectively applies a binary or variable load to each parasitic element to function as a steerable reflector, shaping the radiation pattern to achieve desired directional beams and nulls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If adjustable reactance such as varactors is used for beamforming in parasitic array antennas, then directional beams and nulls can be formed, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive adjustable reactance components (varactors) with simple, inexpensive loading elements that can be selectively connected to parasitic elements. These loading elements are basic electrical components rather than complex adjustable devices, significantly reducing cost and device complexity while maintaining beamforming capability through controlled loading of parasitic elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of parasitic elements by selectively applying loads to them. By controlling the loading state of individual parasitic elements, the radiation pattern can be dynamically adjusted to form directional beams and nulls without requiring complex adjustable reactance components on each element.
2Ease of operation
If adjustable reactance is used for beamforming, then directional control is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes expensive varactor diodes with inexpensive loading elements that are simple electrical components. These loading elements can be implemented with basic materials and standard manufacturing processes, dramatically reducing the manufacturing cost while preserving the essential beamforming function through selective loading of parasitic elements.
3Device complexity
If parasitic elements are used without selective loading, then the antenna structure is simple, but beamforming and null steering capabilities are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic controllability to the parasitic array antenna by enabling selective loading of individual parasitic elements. This allows the antenna to dynamically change its radiation pattern and steering characteristics based on operational requirements, transforming a static simple structure into an adaptable system with beamforming and null steering capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the parasitic array into individually controllable segments (parasitic elements) that can be selectively loaded. By controlling the loading state of each parasitic element independently, the system achieves beamforming capability while maintaining the fundamental simplicity of the parasitic array structure.
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
This approach provides a low-cost solution for steering nulls and forming directional beams, suitable for various communication applications, including mobile microwave ISR, with the ability to switch between omni and directional modes, effectively reducing interference and enhancing signal-to-noise ratio.
Implementation Method 1
the array of parasitic elements functions as a steerable reflector for reflecting the radiation pattern of the driven element
Implementation Method 2
Beamforming is a signal processing technique for directional signal transmission or reception. Such techniques may allow an antenna to produce high directional beams in the desired directions and nulls in the undesired directions
Data Source
AI summary
A parasitic array antenna and a beamforming method for such a parasitic array antenna are disclosed. The parasitic array antenna may include a single driven element at the center of a ground plane. The driven element may be surrounded by multiple parasitic elements. RF loading may be selectively applied to each parasitic element. When symmetric loading is applied to the parasitic elements, the parasitic array antenna may function as an omnidirectional antenna. When asymmetric loading is applied to the parasitic elements, a null and a directional beam may be formed for the parasitic array antenna, therefore providing beamforming capabilities to the parasitic array antenna.