Antenna Module Test Layout Using Element Grouping for Faster OTA Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Testing the performance of antenna modules with multiple elements in 5G mobile communication systems is inefficient due to increased time and device size requirements, especially when conducting over-the-air tests, which become longer and more complex with the number of antenna elements.
Innovation Solution
A test device and method that includes a first antenna module and a second antenna module facing each other, with the second module's elements grouped into controlled antenna element groups to radiate radio waves and test the performance of the first module, using power dividers and combiners to manage and measure transmission and reception power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional testing methods are used for antenna modules with multiple elements, then testing coverage is comprehensive, but testing time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna elements of the second antenna module are divided into multiple antenna element groups. By testing different groups simultaneously or in parallel, the overall testing time is reduced while maintaining comprehensive coverage of all antenna elements. Each group can be tested independently, allowing parallel processing of multiple propagation paths.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple antenna element groups are controlled together to test multiple propagation paths simultaneously. The controller coordinates multiple groups to radiate radio waves toward the first antenna module at the same time, combining their testing capability to reduce total testing time while maintaining comprehensive measurement coverage.
2Measurement precision
If traditional testing methods are used for antenna modules with multiple elements, then all propagation paths are tested, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second antenna module is segmented into multiple antenna element groups that can be controlled independently. This segmentation allows the testing system to manage and control multiple groups within a compact structure, reducing the overall device footprint while maintaining the capability to test all propagation paths through coordinated operation of the groups.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent organizes antenna element groups in a spatial arrangement that optimizes the testing of multiple propagation paths. By strategically positioning and grouping elements in three-dimensional space, the device achieves comprehensive propagation path coverage without requiring a proportionally larger physical footprint, effectively utilizing spatial dimensionality to reduce device size.
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 reduces the size and time required for testing antenna modules by allowing simultaneous testing of multiple propagation paths while maintaining performance discrimination, making it suitable for efficient 5G communication system testing.
Implementation Method 1
a second antenna module that includes a plurality of antenna elements and is disposed to face the seating portion so as to radiate radio waves toward the first antenna module
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a communication technique for converging IoT technology with a 5G communication system for supporting a higher data transmission rate beyond a 4G system, and a system therefor. The present disclosure may be applied to an intelligent service (for example, a smart home, a smart building, a smart city, a smart car or connected car, health care, digital education, retail business, a security and safety-related service, etc.) on the basis of 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology. The present invention provides a device for testing an antenna module, the device comprising: a seating unit which has seated thereon a first antenna module comprising a plurality of antenna elements; a second antenna module which comprises a plurality of antenna elements and is disposed so as to face the seating unit so as to be capable of emitting a radio wave toward the first antenna module; and a control unit which is electrically connected to the second antenna module and tests the performance of the first antenna module by controlling the second antenna module by grouping each antenna element of the second antenna module into at least one antenna element group.