Beam-Steering Antenna Delay-Line Layout for Wider Angular Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Frequency-scanned array antennas have limited angular coverage, restricting radar applications, especially those requiring surveillance of the frontal region, and existing workarounds like using circulators are impractical for compact systems due to size and integration issues.
Innovation Solution
A beam-steering antenna system that excites the antenna array from both sides using a power amplifier and a delay line, eliminating the need for circulators, allowing for compact and cost-effective implementation in solid-state electronics, with the delay line providing a time delay to enhance angular coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If circulators are used to excite the antenna array from both sides, then angular coverage is improved, but device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/ferrite-based circulator system with an electronic solution using solid-state power amplifiers and delay lines. This substitution eliminates the need for bulky ferrite components and permanent magnets, achieving the same bidirectional excitation function through electronic control of signal timing and direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters by using time-sequential excitation with controlled delays. Instead of simultaneous bidirectional excitation requiring circulators, the system uses time-divided excitation where each end of the array is excited in sequence with precise timing control, achieving angular coverage enhancement without additional passive components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple circulators are used for bidirectional excitation, then angular coverage is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive ferrite circulators with cost-effective solid-state electronic components (power amplifiers and delay lines). This substitution significantly reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining the bidirectional excitation capability, as solid-state components are more economical and easier to manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a single power amplifier that is time-sequentially switched to excite different ends of the array, rather than requiring separate amplifiers for each end. This time-division approach reduces the number of expensive components needed while achieving the same functional result.
3Area of stationary object
If the antenna array area is reduced for compact applications, then portability is improved, but angular coverage is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic time-sequential excitation where each end of the compact antenna array is excited in alternating time periods. This periodic bidirectional excitation allows a compact array to achieve enhanced angular coverage by effectively utilizing both ends of the array structure over time, compensating for the reduced physical size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic time-sequential control to the compact antenna array, switching the excitation direction periodically. This dynamic operation allows the compact structure to achieve variable beam steering and enhanced angular coverage that would otherwise require a larger physical array.
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
The solution effectively doubles the angular coverage of beam-steering antenna arrays without the need for bulky circulators, enabling compact and efficient radar systems for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
a delay line coupled to the second end of the transmission line configured to reflect a portion of the input signal into the transmission line, thereby providing a reflection signal during a second operating period
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of antenna elements selectively coupled to the transmission line for selectively coupling energy within the transmission line to the plurality of antenna elements
Data Source
AI summary
A beam-steering antenna system for improving the angular coverage comprises a transmission line comprising a first end and a second end. The antenna system further comprises a plurality of antenna elements selectively coupled to the transmission line for selectively coupling energy within the transmission line to the plurality of antenna elements. Furthermore, the antenna system comprises a power amplifier coupled to the first end of the transmission line configured to couple-in an input signal into the transmission line during a first operating period. Moreover, the antenna system comprises a delay line coupled to the second end of the transmission line configured to reflect a portion of the input signal into the transmission line, thereby providing a reflection signal during a second operating period.