Antenna Array Calibration Device Using Segmented Signal Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current calibration methods for antenna arrays used in body scans require large and unwieldy calibration standards, leading to inefficiencies and the need for decommissioning scanners or additional equipment.
Innovation Solution
A calibration device comprising a transmitter, receiver, and antenna characteristic calculator that uses multiple calibration signals and reflection characteristics to determine antenna characteristics without large-scale standards, allowing for accurate calibration with minimal equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional calibration standards are used for calibrating antenna arrays, then calibration accuracy can be achieved, but the calibration standards become large and unwieldy, requiring additional equipment and decommissioning scanners
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration process is segmented into multiple measurement steps using a single compact calibration standard. Instead of using one large comprehensive standard, the invention divides the calibration into separate measurements: through-transmission measurements, reflection measurements, and crosstalk measurements, each performed with the same small calibration standard in different configurations
Solution Approach 2:
A single calibration standard serves multiple functions throughout the calibration process. The same calibration standard is used for through-transmission calibration, reflection calibration, and crosstalk calibration, eliminating the need for multiple different calibration standards and reducing overall equipment requirements
2Measurement precision
If multiple different calibration standards are used to achieve accurate calibration, then measurement precision improves, but the number of calibration standards and their total size increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration standard is used in different dynamic configurations and positions throughout the calibration process. The same physical standard is moved to different locations and oriented differently to perform various calibration measurements, replacing the need for multiple static calibration standards
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration standard serves itself by being reused across multiple calibration functions. Through proper signal processing and mathematical calculations, the same hardware standard provides the necessary reference for all calibration measurements, making the system self-sufficient with minimal external equipment
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
Enables precise calibration of antenna arrays with reduced equipment needs, facilitating quick and efficient calibration processes, especially in body scanners.
Implementation Method 1
a transmitter, which is configured for transmitting a first calibration signal to all antennas of the antenna array
Implementation Method 2
a reflection unit, which is configured for reflecting, with a first reflection characteristic, a third calibration signal successively transmitted by the antennas of the antenna array
Data Source
AI summary
A calibration device for calibrating an antenna array is provided. The calibration device comprises a transmitter, which is configured for transmitting a first calibration signal to all antennas of the antenna array, resulting in a plurality of received first calibration signals provided by the antenna array to the calibration device. Moreover, the calibration device comprises a receiver, which is configured for receiving a plurality of second calibration signals from the antennas of the antenna array. Finally, the calibration device comprises an antenna characteristic calculator, which is configured for calculating an antenna characteristic of each individual antenna of the antenna array based on the plurality of received first calibration signals and the plurality of received second calibration signals.