Antenna Array Calibration Using Orientation and Signal Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current direction-finding systems in wireless communication devices require cumbersome calibration processes, especially in manufacturing and post-manufacture, due to environmental and usage-related changes, making them impractical for large-scale production and long-term accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A method for calibrating direction-finding systems using a signal receiver array and sensors, where a device receives signals from an external tag, records signal data and orientation information as it is moved, and uses this data to formulate a calibration matrix or adjust existing calibration values, considering signal quality and user interaction to account for interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional calibration techniques are used with anechoic chambers and network analyzers, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a virtual calibration model that copies the essential calibration data without requiring physical anechoic chambers. The system creates a digital representation of the antenna array's response characteristics, allowing calibration to be performed through software simulation rather than expensive physical measurement equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical calibration process (using network analyzers and anechoic chambers) with an electronic/software-based system. The calibration is performed by having the device move through predefined positions and recording signal strength data, which is then processed algorithmically to generate calibration values, eliminating the need for complex physical measurement equipment.
2Manufacturing precision
If individual device calibration in anechoic chambers is performed, then manufacturing precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to prohibitive calibration time and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal calibration method that can be applied to all devices in the same antenna array configuration without requiring individual physical calibration. The system uses a standardized set of predefined positions and signal sources that work across multiple devices, allowing batch calibration rather than individual calibration, thereby significantly improving productivity while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs calibration measurements at predetermined positions before final assembly or deployment. By pre-calibrating the antenna array response characteristics at known positions and storing this data for later use, the system eliminates the need for time-consuming calibration procedures during manufacturing or field deployment, thereby improving productivity without sacrificing accuracy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If calibration is performed after manufacturing, then adaptability to environmental changes is improved, but loss of time increases due to recalibration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors signal strength and position data during operation. This feedback information is used to dynamically adjust calibration values without requiring manual recalibration, allowing the system to adapt to environmental changes in real-time or near real-time, thereby reducing the time loss associated with traditional post-manufacturing calibration requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A system used for calibrating a direction-finding system. A device may include a signal receiver array. The signal receiver array may be utilized to determine the direction of arrival for signals emitted by other devices, and therefore, may be used to resolve the direction towards another device using the received signal. For example, an external tag may be utilized to emit a wireless signal usable inducing a response in each signal receiver of the signal receiver array. The device may also include one or more sensors usable in determining device orientation and/or a change in device orientation. The combined signal receiver response information and orientation information may be recorded at various instants as the device is moved for use in calibrating the antenna array.