Antenna Phase Center Determination Using Least-Square Techniques
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the phase center of antennas are not reliable due to incorrect simulation models, leading to unsatisfactory measurement uncertainty, especially in critical applications like GPS and aviation, where precise and cost-effective uncertainty determination is essential.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a positioning unit within an anechoic space to determine the phase center of an antenna under test by measuring the phase of a signal at different angular orientations and applying least-square techniques to quantify the measurement uncertainty directly, without relying on simulation data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If simulation techniques are used to determine measurement uncertainty, then the measurement uncertainty can be evaluated, but the results are unreliable due to incorrect simulation models
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simulation-based uncertainty determination with a direct experimental measurement approach. Instead of using computational models to estimate measurement uncertainty, the invention uses actual measurement data collected at multiple angular orientations to calculate uncertainty through least-square techniques, thereby substituting theoretical simulation with empirical measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system performs self-validation by using its own measurement data to determine measurement uncertainty. The system collects phase measurements at different angular positions and uses these same measurements to calculate the uncertainty through statistical analysis, making the system self-sufficient rather than relying on external simulation models.
2Measurement precision
If multiple measurements at different angular orientations are performed, then the phase center can be determined more accurately, but the measurement time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by performing measurements at a specific set of angular orientations that are sufficient for accurate phase center determination without requiring complete spherical scanning. The least-square technique allows using a limited number of strategically chosen measurement points to achieve the desired accuracy level.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the measurement parameters by working in the phase domain rather than amplitude domain, and by using least-square fitting to extract phase center information. This parameter transformation allows accurate determination with fewer measurements compared to traditional amplitude-based methods.
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
This approach allows for precise and reliable determination of phase center uncertainty in situ, reducing the need for simulation techniques and providing a cost-efficient method to identify measurement deviations and potential errors, thereby enhancing measurement quality and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
placing the antenna under test on a positioning unit within an anechoic space of a measurement system
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a phase center of an antenna under test is described wherein the antenna under test is placed on a positioning unit within an anechoic space of a measurement system, the positioning unit being configured to set the antenna under test in at least one angular orientation. At least the phase of a measurement signal assigned to the antenna under test is determined in dependency of the angular orientation of the antenna under test. The phase center of the antenna under test is determined by using least-square techniques while taking the phase of the measurement signal into account, and an uncertainty of the determination of the phase center is determined based on the outcome of the determination of the phase center of the antenna under test by using the least-square techniques. In addition, a measurement system is described.