Digital Beamformed Phased Array Feed for Multi-Band Beam Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional satellite communication systems are limited by traditional antennas that can only handle single-band signals and are designed to communicate with one flight object at a time, posing challenges in stabilizing antennas for moving objects like ships and aircraft, and lacking the capability for simultaneous tracking of multiple objects.
Innovation Solution
A digitally beamformed phased array feed system utilizing multi-band software defined antenna array tiles, which includes coupled dipole array antenna elements, frequency converters, and digital beamformers to receive and transmit signals across multiple bandwidths, allowing for simultaneous communication with multiple flight objects by steering the antenna beam electronically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional single-band antennas are used, then the antenna can be designed for a specific frequency, but it can only communicate with one flight object at a time and cannot operate across multiple bandwidths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-band phased array antenna system where a single antenna structure can operate across multiple frequency bands (L-band, S-band, C-band, X-band, Ku-band, Ka-band) by using digital beamforming to electronically configure different beam patterns and frequency responses, eliminating the need for separate single-band antennas for each frequency range
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical switching between different antennas or frequency configurations with digital signal processing and electronic beamforming, allowing rapid reconfiguration of the antenna system to different frequency bands and beam directions through software control rather than mechanical movement or switching
2Productivity
If traditional beamforming techniques are used, then the antenna can be designed for a specific target, but it can only track one flight object at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the antenna array into multiple independently controllable element groups, each capable of forming its own beam, allowing the system to simultaneously create multiple beams pointing at different flight objects by independently controlling the phase and amplitude of each element group
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic beamforming where the beam patterns can be rapidly reconfigured in real-time through digital signal processing, allowing the antenna system to dynamically adjust and maintain simultaneous tracking of multiple moving flight objects as they change position and velocity
3Speed
If parabolic reflector antennas are mechanically pointed at a target, then the antenna beam follows the reflector position, but the system cannot rapidly reconfigure for different targets without mechanical movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical pointing mechanism with electronic beam steering using phased array technology, where changes in beam direction are achieved by adjusting the phase and amplitude of signals at each antenna element through digital control, eliminating the need for mechanical movement and stabilization systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters (phase shifts, amplitude weights, frequency) of the antenna elements dynamically through digital signal processing to rapidly reconfigure the beam pattern and direction, allowing instant adaptation to different targets without any physical movement of the antenna structure
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
Enables simultaneous tracking and communication with multiple flight objects across various frequency bands, improving the flexibility and efficiency of satellite communication systems, particularly for moving targets, by using digital beamforming to dynamically adjust the antenna's beam direction and broaden its operational bandwidth.
Implementation Method 1
receiving, by a first coupled dipole array antenna element of a plurality coupled dipole array antenna elements of a multi-band software defined antenna array tile, a plurality of respective modulated signals associated with a plurality of respective radio frequencies
Implementation Method 2
converting, by the first principal polarization frequency converter of the first pair of frequency converters, the respective first modulated signals associated with the respective radio frequencies of the plurality of radio frequencies into respective second modulated signals having a first intermediate frequency
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for a digital beamformed phased array feed. The system may include a radome configured to allow electromagnetic waves to propagate; a multi-band software defined antenna array tile; a power and clock management subsystem configured to manage power and time of operation; a thermal management subsystem configured to dissipate heat generated by the multi-band software defined antenna array tile; and an enclosure assembly. The multi-band software defined antenna array tile may include a plurality of coupled dipole array antenna elements; a plurality of frequency converters; and a plurality of digital beamformers.