Antenna Lens Array for Multi-Satellite Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio frequency antenna systems are inadequate for tracking multiple low/medium orbit satellites due to limitations such as single satellite tracking capability, high cost, inter-antenna interference, and inability to independently track adjacent satellites with full-time downlink.
Innovation Solution
An antenna system utilizing an array of spherical lenses with mechanically movable RF elements and a phase shifter, allowing for parallel and perpendicular movement along curved tracks, and a control mechanism to adjust signal phases for multiple satellite tracking and coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single gimballed reflector antenna is used, then the antenna can track one satellite, but it cannot track multiple satellites simultaneously and requires expensive multiplication of antennas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the single antenna system into multiple independent feed elements (first feed element and second feed element) that can be independently positioned and controlled. Each feed element can track different satellites simultaneously, transforming one antenna into a multi-satellite tracking system without requiring multiple separate antenna structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a second spatial dimension for feed element positioning by allowing feeds to move not only in the traditional elevation plane but also in a second plane perpendicular to the first. This dimensional expansion enables multiple feeds to occupy distinct spatial positions, allowing simultaneous tracking of multiple satellites without physical antenna multiplication.
2Reliability
If multiple antennas are installed at large intervals, then each antenna can track satellites independently, but the system becomes expensive and occupies large area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple independent tracking functions into a single antenna structure by combining multiple feed elements within one reflector system. The first and second feed elements, along with their respective positioning mechanisms, are integrated into one antenna unit, maintaining independent tracking capability while consolidating the physical footprint to a single installation location.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conformal phased array antennas are used, then multiple satellites can be tracked, but the system experiences high gain loss near horizon and has narrow bandwidth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electronic phase shifting mechanism of phased array antennas with a mechanical positioning system. Feed elements are physically moved to different spatial locations using mechanical actuators and positioning mechanisms, eliminating the need for complex phase shifters and reducing signal loss near the horizon while maintaining broad bandwidth capability.
4Ease of operation
If spherical lens antenna with RF transceivers is used, then beam steering capability is improved, but the system is not suitable for target tracking application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic positioning capability to the feed elements through mechanical actuators that enable real-time movement in multiple planes. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to actively track moving targets such as satellites, transforming the static spherical lens antenna into a versatile target tracking system while maintaining beam steering capability.
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 efficient ground-based and sky-based communication and tracking of multiple objects with improved coverage and capacity, reducing the need for multiple antennas and minimizing interference.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna uses an array of spherical lenses, and mechanically movable elements
Implementation Method 2
a phase shifter that is configured to adjust a phase of the signals produced by the RF elements
Data Source
AI summary
A radio frequency antenna array uses lenses and RF elements, to provide ground-based and sky-based coverage for multiple object communication and tracking. The antenna array can include two spherical lenses, where each spherical lens has at least two associated RF elements. Each of the RF elements associated with a given lens produces an output beam with an output area. Each lens also includes a sub-controller configured to combine the output beams produced by the RF elements. The antenna includes a control mechanism configured to enable a user to move the RF elements along their respective tracks, and automatically combine, or modify the phase of, the output beams from the RF elements based on the relative positions between the RF elements. The combined beams track independent targets, such as satellites, across an area.