Switched Antenna Array Calibration for Parasitic Coupling Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronically switched antenna arrays face a limited measurement dynamic range due to parasitic coupling of a radiation source to the RF output, which affects the performance and accuracy of signal reception.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that measure parasitic coupling signals and reference signals to calculate parasitic coupling-free reception signals for each antenna element, thereby reducing parasitic coupling and increasing dynamic range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an electronically switched antenna array is used, then signal reception capability is provided, but parasitic coupling limits the measurement dynamic range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and separates the parasitic coupling signal from the total received signal through a calibration process. By measuring the parasitic coupling signal independently (with all switches off) and then subtracting it from the total signal measurements, the harmful parasitic component is removed, enabling accurate measurement of weak signals across a wider dynamic range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs a preliminary calibration measurement to characterize the parasitic coupling before actual signal reception. The system first measures the parasitic coupling signal when all switches are off, then uses this pre-measured information to compensate for parasitic effects during subsequent measurements, thereby extending the usable dynamic range.
2Adaptability or versatility
If parasitic coupling is present in the antenna array output, then signal reception is affected, but the dynamic range among antenna elements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback-based calibration approach where the measured parasitic coupling signal is used to correct subsequent measurements. The system feeds back the characterized parasitic coupling information into the signal processing chain, allowing real-time compensation and maintaining both high reliability and extended dynamic range across all antenna elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the antenna array by systematically switching individual antenna elements on and off during calibration. This allows measurement of parasitic coupling contributions from each element, enabling element-specific compensation that extends the usable dynamic range across the entire array while maintaining signal reception accuracy.
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
The method effectively reduces parasitic coupling, enhancing the dynamic range and accuracy of signal reception in antenna arrays, particularly in near-field scanning applications.
Implementation Method 1
measuring in response to a signal radiated by a signal source a parasitic coupling signal received by the signal receiver connected to the output of said antenna array
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for removal of a parasitic coupling of a signal source to an output of an antenna array comprising at least one antenna element connected via an associated controllable switch to a signal receiver connected to the output of said antenna array, the method includes measuring a parasitic coupling signal received by the signal receiver connected to the output of said antenna array while all switches of the antenna array are switched off and a first reference signal received by a reference signal receiver; measuring a total reception signal for each antenna element and a second reference signal; calculating a parasitic coupling free reception signal for each antenna element by subtracting a ratio between the measured parasitic coupling signal and the measured first reference signal from a ratio between the total reception signal.