AESA Multi-Band Beamforming for Single-Layer Multi-Beam Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional aircraft SATCOM communication systems require multiple antennas for different constellations, leading to increased weight, cost, and complexity due to the need for separate manifold layers for each beam, making multi-beam applications impractical.
Innovation Solution
An active electronically scanned array (AESA) antenna device configured to perform beamforming and signal routing within a single beam forming network of a multi-chip module, allowing multiple beams to be routed through a single manifold layer, utilizing active combining and splitting to support multi-beam connectivity without signal cross-contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate SATCOM communication systems are used to communicate with different constellation systems (Ku-band and Ka-band), then communication compatibility with multiple constellations is achieved, but aircraft weight, cost, and power consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple SATCOM communication systems into a single integrated AESA antenna device that can simultaneously support multiple constellation systems (Ku-band and Ka-band) and multi-beam applications. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate antennas for different constellations, directly reducing aircraft weight while maintaining full communication compatibility across multiple satellite networks
Solution Approach 2:
The AESA antenna device is designed with universal multi-functionality to communicate with various constellation systems across different frequency bands (Ku-band and Ka-band) and support multiple beams simultaneously. This single device performs the functions previously requiring multiple separate systems, achieving adaptability without the associated weight penalty
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate SATCOM communication systems are installed on the aircraft, then multi-constellation communication capability is achieved, but system cost and electrical power requirements double
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple separate SATCOM systems into a single AESA antenna device with shared signal processing resources. By consolidating the receive and transmit paths, beamforming networks, and control systems into one integrated platform, the electrical power consumption is reduced compared to operating multiple independent systems, while maintaining full multi-constellation capability
3Ease of operation
If traditional passive combiners/splitters are used for signal routing, then beam routing is achieved, but the physical size and bulk of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/passive combiners and splitters with electronically controlled phase shifters and beamforming networks integrated into the AESA architecture. This electronic substitution eliminates bulky passive components while maintaining full signal routing capability through programmable beamforming, significantly reducing the physical footprint of the system
4Ease of operation
If separate manifold layers are used for each beam in the PCB, then signal routing for multiple beams is achieved, but the PCB becomes functionally and structurally impracticable beyond two beams
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple beam signal paths into a single integrated manifold layer through the AESA beamforming network. Instead of requiring separate PCB layers for each beam, the electronic beamforming capability allows multiple beams to be routed through shared physical infrastructure, making the system practicable for more than two beams without increasing PCB layer complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
An active electrically scanned array (AESA) antenna device is disclosed. In embodiments, the AESA antenna device includes a beam forming network (212) including a plurality of analog beamformer (ABF) integrated circuit devices (214). The beam forming network may be configured to: receive a first set of signals and a second set of signals with multiple ABF integrated circuit devices, and combine the first set of signals and the second set of signals to generate a first receive input beam and a second receive input beam. In embodiments, the AESA antenna device further includes a carrier substrate (204) communicatively coupled to the beam forming network. The carrier substrate may be configured to receive the first receive output beam with a first electrical line (208a) and the second receive output beam with a second electrical line (208b), and route the first electrical line and the second electrical line within a first manifold layer (210) of the carrier substrate.