Antenna Array Testing via Probe Back-Projection for Defect Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current antenna testing methods are time-consuming and fail to accurately identify the location and nature of defects in array antennas, such as soldering errors, leading to inefficiencies in production and increased scrap rates.
Innovation Solution
A testing method and system using an array of probes connected to a Vector Network Analyzer and computer, which reconstructs signal magnitude and phase to diagnose defects, including swap, short, or open circuit issues by comparing signals from the antenna under test to a golden antenna, allowing for precise defect identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single probe or array of probes is moved around the antenna to measure transmitted signals, then the testing can detect that an antenna is not working properly, but the testing becomes very time-consuming and provides no indication of where problems originate within the antenna
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the antenna into individual radiating elements and tests each element separately by injecting signals at specific ports and measuring responses at corresponding probe positions. This segmentation allows rapid identification of which specific element has a defect, eliminating the need to scan the entire antenna surface and providing both speed and diagnostic information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses near-field measurements taken at discrete probe positions around the antenna to back-project and reconstruct far-field patterns. This preliminary measurement approach captures all necessary data in a single setup, avoiding time-consuming sequential scanning while enabling comprehensive defect detection and localization.
2Productivity
If traditional production testers are used to perform phase-magnitude tests, then testing can be performed during production, but the testers are very time-consuming and do not provide diagnostic information about defect location or nature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the testing process by assigning specific probe positions to test specific radiating elements. Each element is tested independently by injecting signals at its corresponding port and measuring at its designated probe position(s). This segmentation enables rapid production testing while providing detailed diagnostic information about which element fails and what type of failure occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical scanning approach with a fixed array of probes and uses signal processing (back-projection algorithms) to achieve comprehensive testing. Instead of physically moving probes around the antenna, the system uses multiple fixed measurement points and computational methods to rapidly diagnose all elements, dramatically reducing testing time while maintaining diagnostic capability.
3Ease of manufacture
If cables are soldered manually to radiating elements, then flexibility in assembly is maintained, but defects such as bad soldering, no soldering, wrong position soldering can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service testing where the antenna under test is automatically evaluated by the testing system without requiring manual inspection. The system autonomously injects signals, measures responses, back-projects near-field data to far-field patterns, and diagnoses defects in each radiating element. This automated self-diagnosis ensures consistent quality assessment while maintaining manufacturing flexibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method and system for the testing of an antenna comprising a plurality of radiating elements, wherein an array of one or more probes is placed in front of the antenna to be tested, and wherein the following steps are performed : acquisition by the array of one or more probes or by the radiating elements of the antenna under test of an RF signal emitted by the antenna under test or by the array of one or more probe (s), back propagation reconstruction of the signal emitted through a computation of the signal received by the various probes of the array of one or more probes or by the radiating elements of the antenna under test, test of the signal thus reconstructed or of parameters thereof to detect a potential defect of the antenna.