Digital Beamformed Phased Array Feed for Multi-Band Target Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional satellite communication systems are limited to single-band signals and can only communicate with one flight object at a time, making them inefficient and challenging to stabilize on moving objects like ships and aircraft, as they require mechanical adjustments to maintain beam alignment.
Innovation Solution
A digitally beamformed phased array feed system using multi-band software defined antenna array tiles that can receive and transmit signals across multiple bandwidths simultaneously, allowing for simultaneous tracking of multiple flight objects with a single antenna array by digitally processing antenna element data to steer the antenna beam.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional single-band parabolic reflector 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 digitally controllable beamforming. The system uses multiple antenna elements that can be independently controlled to achieve frequency agility and multi-functionality, allowing one antenna to perform what traditionally required multiple separate antennas
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical beam steering (physical movement of the parabolic reflector) with electronic beamforming through digital signal processing. By applying phase and amplitude weights to signals from multiple antenna elements, the system can electronically steer beams across different directions and frequencies without mechanical movement, enabling rapid reconfiguration between frequency bands and target objects
2Reliability
If mechanical adjustments are made to maintain beam alignment with moving objects, then tracking capability is achieved, but the system becomes difficult to stabilize on fast-moving aircraft and ships
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical tracking systems with digital beamforming that can rapidly and precisely steer electron beams to track moving objects. The digital signal processing allows for real-time calculation and application of beamforming weights to maintain accurate tracking of fast-moving targets like aircraft and ships without the inertia and mechanical complexity of physical antenna movement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic beam steering capability where the beam direction can be rapidly changed by adjusting digital weights on antenna elements. This dynamic electronic control allows the system to adapt to moving targets in real-time, providing reliable tracking stability without mechanical adjustment mechanisms that struggle with fast-moving objects
3Productivity
If digital beamforming is implemented to steer antenna beams for simultaneous multi-object tracking, then communication with multiple flight objects is enabled, but the processing complexity and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the large phased array into multiple smaller sub-arrays or tiles, each capable of independent beamforming. This segmentation allows parallel processing of signals for multiple targets, reducing the computational burden on any single processing unit while maintaining the ability to track multiple objects simultaneously. Each sub-array can be controlled independently to form beams toward different targets
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a multi-stage beamforming approach where coarse beam steering is performed first to identify regions of interest, followed by finer beam adjustment and focusing. This hierarchical approach processes only the necessary portion of the full signal set at each stage, reducing overall computational complexity while achieving accurate multi-target tracking
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 efficient communication with multiple flight objects across various frequency bands, improving the ability to track moving targets and reducing the need for mechanical adjustments, thereby enhancing the stability and versatility of satellite communication systems.
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.