Reconfigurable AESA Switch Network for FDD and TDD Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems face challenges in supporting both frequency division duplexing (FDD) and time division duplexing (TDD) communication protocols with a single antenna, requiring multiple narrowband filters and antennas, which limits flexibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An active electronically scanned array (AESA) with a switch network that includes mode-switching, filter switching, and crossover switching stages, allowing array elements to be configured for transmit, receive, or isolation functions, enabling seamless switching between FDD and TDD modes by modifying couplings and swapping signal paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple narrowband filters and antennas are used to support both FDD and TDD protocols, then communication protocol compatibility is improved, but device complexity and quantity of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal antenna system where a single antenna can operate in both FDD and TDD modes through a reconfigurable AESA architecture. The switch network enables the same physical antenna to be dynamically configured for different duplexing operations, eliminating the need for separate FDD and TDD antenna sets. This multi-functionality approach reduces component quantity while maintaining protocol compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic reconfiguration of the AESA system through switch networks that can change the operational mode (FDD/TDD) and functional allocation (transmit/receive/isolation) of array elements in real-time. This dynamic switching capability allows the system to adapt to different communication protocols without requiring multiple static configurations, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If separate narrowband filters are used for different frequency operations, then frequency selectivity is improved, but device complexity and bandwidth flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the switch network configuration to achieve different frequency operations. By dynamically adjusting the switch states and signal path configurations, the system can select different frequency bands and duplexing modes without requiring physical filter changes. This parameter-based reconfiguration maintains frequency selectivity while improving bandwidth flexibility and reducing the number of physical filters needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The AESA system implements a universal signal path that can be configured for different frequency operations through electronic switching rather than requiring separate narrowband filters for each frequency band. The same physical infrastructure supports multiple frequency selections through dynamic routing, reducing component complexity while maintaining the ability to operate selectively in different frequency ranges.
3Stability of the object's composition
If array elements are fixed in specific functions, then system stability is improved, but adaptability and isolation performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic functional allocation where array elements can be switched between transmit, receive, and isolation functions based on operational requirements. The switch network enables real-time reconfiguration of element functions while maintaining system stability through controlled switching. This dynamic approach improves isolation performance by allowing optimal element placement for each operational mode without compromising overall system stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the AESA system into independently controllable functional groups through the switch network. Array elements are organized into subarrays that can be independently configured for transmit, receive, or isolation functions. This segmentation allows flexible reconfiguration while maintaining stable operation within each functional group, thereby improving both adaptability and isolation performance.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods described herein are directed towards an active electronically scanned array (AESA) that can perform both frequency division duplexing (FDD) operations and time division duplexing (TDD) operations. The AESA includes a switch network having one or more switching stages coupled between a transceiver and one or more array elements to switch the AESA between FDD operation and TDD operations, modify a function of one or more of the array elements in the AESA and/or swap portions of the AESA between different functions. The switch network can be disposed in a feed portion of the AESA. Thus, functions of each of the array elements or subarrays of multiple array elements in the AESA can be modified at a feed portion of the AESA. The array elements can be configured for TDD operations and FDD operations and can be configured as a transmit elements, receive elements or isolation elements.