Array Antenna System with Sub-Array Switching for Beam Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing array antenna systems require a long time to find an optimum tilt angle, are costly due to multiple variable phase shifters, and increase interference with other devices by raising sidelobe levels.
Innovation Solution
An array antenna system with a simplified structure featuring a matrix arrangement of antenna elements, n-ary switches, and a switch controller that selectively activates elements based on signal direction to form beam patterns, reducing the need for multiple phase shifters and lowering sidelobe levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If variable phase shifters are used to adjust the phase of signals at each antenna element, then the vertical angle of the main lobe can be changed to transmit and receive signals in specific directions, but the time required to find the optimum tilt angle increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the antenna array into multiple sub-arrays, where each sub-array can be independently controlled. This allows the system to adjust the vertical angle by controlling specific sub-arrays rather than adjusting each individual element, significantly reducing the time required to find the optimum tilt angle while maintaining the ability to change beam direction
2Reliability
If separate variable phase shifters are provided for each antenna element to adjust phase, then the main lobe gain can be optimized, but the cost and size of the antenna system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple antenna elements into sub-arrays that share common phase shifters. Instead of providing separate phase shifters for each element, multiple elements are grouped and controlled by shared phase control signals, reducing the total number of phase shifters required while maintaining the ability to optimize main lobe gain through coordinated control of sub-arrays
3Device complexity
If a single variable phase shifter is used to reduce cost, then the number of components decreases, but the sidelobe level increases causing interference with other devices
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the antenna array into multiple sub-arrays with independent phase control, the system can optimize the radiation pattern more effectively than a single phase shifter approach. This segmentation allows for better control of sidelobe levels while using fewer phase shifters, reducing interference with other devices
4Measurement precision
If multiple variable phase shifters are used to control each antenna element, then precise phase adjustment is possible, but the power consumption of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple antenna elements into sub-arrays that share common phase shifters, reducing the total number of active components. This merging approach maintains sufficient phase adjustment precision for beamforming while significantly reducing the power consumption associated with operating multiple independent phase shifters
Data Source
AI summary
An array antenna system is provided. The array antenna system includes a plurality of antenna elements which are arranged at intervals in rows and in columns; and a control means which selectively operates at least two antenna elements of the plurality of the antenna elements according to a direction of received radio signals.