Adjustable Antenna Feed Assembly for Multi-Reflector Compatibility

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional antenna positioning systems require a new feed assembly for each size of reflector, limiting flexibility and necessitating multiple purchases to accommodate varying reflector sizes and frequencies.

Innovation Solution

A mechanically adjustable feed system comprising a feed base, splash plate assembly, and feed insert, allowing for dynamic modification to accommodate different reflector sizes and frequencies through interchangeable components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate feed assembly is used for each reflector size, then the antenna system can be optimized for each specific configuration, but the device complexity and cost increase due to needing multiple feed assemblies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna system optimizationVSAvoidnumber of feed assemblies
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The feed assembly is designed with universal compatibility across multiple reflector sizes through standardized mounting interfaces and adjustable positioning mechanisms. The feed horn assembly can be configured to work with different reflector diameters (e.g., 60cm, 80cm, 100cm) without requiring separate dedicated assemblies for each size, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining optimization capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The feed assembly is divided into modular components including the feed horn, mounting bracket, and positioning mechanisms that can be independently adjusted or replaced. This segmentation allows the same base assembly to be adapted to different reflector configurations by modifying or repositioning specific components rather than requiring entirely separate assemblies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple feed assemblies are purchased to accommodate varying reflector sizes and frequencies, then all configuration needs are met, but the cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration coverageVSAvoidnumber of feed assemblies
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The feed assembly incorporates universal mounting mechanisms and adjustable features that enable a single assembly to serve multiple reflector sizes and frequency configurations. The standardized interfaces and reconfigurable design allow one feed assembly to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate assemblies, thereby reducing the quantity needed while maintaining full adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The feed assembly includes dynamic adjustment capabilities such as movable mounting positions and reconfigurable components that allow it to adapt to different configurations on-demand. This dynamic flexibility enables a single assembly to cover multiple static configurations that would otherwise require multiple dedicated assemblies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If a fixed feed assembly is used, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to different reflector sizes and frequencies is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefeed assembly structureVSAvoidreflector size compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The feed assembly is segmented into distinct functional modules (feed horn, mounting bracket, positioning mechanisms) that can be independently adjusted or reconfigured. This modular structure maintains relative simplicity while enabling adaptability, as each segment can be modified or repositioned to suit different reflector configurations without redesigning the entire assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The feed assembly incorporates dynamic elements such as adjustable mounting positions and reconfigurable components that enable adaptation to different reflector sizes and frequencies. These dynamic features are integrated in a way that does not substantially increase overall structural complexity, allowing the assembly to transition between configurations while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11909096B2Mechanically adjustable antenna positioning system
Publication Date: 2024.02.20 ANTENNA RESEARCH ASSOCIATES INC
  • US11909096B2 patent drawing
  • US11909096B2 patent drawing
  • US11909096B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An adjustable antenna positioning system feed is disclosed herein. The adjustable antenna positioning system feed includes a feed base, a splash plate assembly, and a feed insert. The feed base is configured to be coupled to a reflector. The splash plate assembly is configured to be removably coupled to the feed base. The adjustable antenna positioning system feed is in a primary arrangement when directly coupled. The feed insert is positioned between the feed base and the splash plate. The adjustable antenna positioning system feed is in a secondary arrangement when the feed insert is coupled with the feed base and the splash plate.