Beam Tracking Using Single Feed Array and Periodic Probing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current beam tracking methods in long-distance microwave communication are time-consuming and resource-intensive, particularly due to the use of array antennas which require periodic probe signals to determine the direction of arrival, leading to high costs and power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A beam tracking apparatus with N probe points and a processor that detects received signal strength at preset locations, using a single-pole N-throw switch to successively turn on probe points and switch the antenna's working status based on a preset switching rule, reducing the need for multiple detectors and resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If array antenna is used for beam scanning, then beam tracking capability is achieved, but total costs and power consumption become excessively high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the beam tracking function from the complex array antenna system by using a single feed array with periodic probing. Only the necessary components for direction of arrival detection are retained, while removing redundant channels and detectors, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining beam tracking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a simple paraboloid reflector with a single feed array instead of expensive array antenna elements. The system employs periodic probing with a single detector rather than multiple continuous detectors, reducing overall system cost and power consumption while achieving the same beam tracking function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If array antenna is used for beam scanning, then beam tracking is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies the antenna structure by extracting only the essential elements needed for beam tracking: a paraboloid reflector with a single feed array. The complex multi-element array structure is removed, retaining only the necessary components for direction of arrival detection through periodic probing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If periodic probe method is used to determine direction of arrival, then beam tracking is achieved, but detection time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic probing of the feed array to determine direction of arrival. By systematically activating different feed elements in a periodic sequence and detecting signal strength at each position, the system identifies the direction of arrival through the position of maximum signal strength, achieving beam tracking through time-multiplexed periodic detection.
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 enables fast and accurate beam tracking with reduced resource consumption, shortening the detection time and improving engineering efficiency by only detecting signal strength at specific locations.
Implementation Method 1
The detector is configured to: detect received signal strength at N preset locations in an antenna by using the N probe points
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of this application relate to the communications field, and provide a beam tracking apparatus and method, and an antenna system, to implement fast antenna beam tracking that occupies a small quantity of resources. A solution provided in the embodiments of this application includes: a detector is configured to detect received signal strength at N preset locations in an antenna by using N probe points; and a processor switches a working status of the antenna according to a preset switching rule and based on a strength relationship among N received signal strength values sent by the detector, to perform beam tracking. This application is used for beam tracking.