Digital Beamformed Phased Array Feed for Multi-Band Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional satellite communication systems are limited by single-band operation and mechanical stability issues, making them inefficient for simultaneous tracking of multiple objects and difficult to apply to moving objects like ships and aircraft.
Innovation Solution
A digitally beamformed phased array feed system using multi-band software defined antenna array tiles, which can receive and transmit signals across multiple bandwidths simultaneously by digitally processing antenna element data to steer the antenna beam, incorporating tightly coupled dipole array elements, frequency converters, and digital beamformers to manage thermal noise and increase radiated power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional parabolic reflector antennas are used for satellite communication, then single band signal reception is achieved, but the ability to communicate with multiple flight objects simultaneously is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is divided into multiple independently controllable beamforming channels, each capable of processing different frequency bands. The digital beamformer segments the signal processing into separate channels that can be independently configured for different bands and targets, enabling multi-band operation while maintaining simultaneous communication capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic beamforming where the beam direction and shape can be electronically adjusted in real-time for each frequency band. This dynamic control allows the antenna to track multiple moving flight objects simultaneously across different bands without mechanical movement, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and productivity.
2Productivity
If digital beamforming is implemented to track multiple flight objects, then simultaneous communication capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The digital beamformer is designed as a universal processing unit that can handle multiple frequency bands and multiple target tracking simultaneously through a single integrated system. This multi-functional approach reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate systems for each band or target, as the same hardware infrastructure serves multiple purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces mechanical steering mechanisms with digital beamforming techniques. Instead of physically moving antenna elements to track multiple targets, the system uses digital signal processing to electronically steer beams, significantly reducing mechanical complexity while enabling simultaneous tracking of multiple flight objects.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single antenna array is configured for one reflector, then design simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different applications is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates preliminary configuration capabilities where beamforming weights and parameters can be pre-calculated and stored for different operational scenarios. This allows the single antenna array to be rapidly reconfigured for different applications without requiring physical redesign or manufacturing changes, maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving high adaptability.
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 communication with multiple objects across various frequency bands, improving the stability and adaptability of satellite communication systems for both stationary and moving platforms.
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
Implementation Method 3
digital sampling and processing of antenna element data to steer the direction of the antenna beam
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.