CATR Alignment Verification Using a Rotating Reference Antenna
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing integrated circuits with integrated antennas for millimeter wave signals are slow and expensive, particularly due to the complexity and time-consuming nature of aligning compact antenna test range (CATR) equipment.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a reference antenna to rapidly verify the alignment of CATR equipment by rotating it through various angles and comparing measurements to a known RF signature, determining alignment tolerance and correcting any misalignment, thereby streamlining the testing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional alignment verification methods are used for CATR equipment, then alignment accuracy can be maintained, but the testing process becomes slow and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary alignment verification by rotating the reference antenna through a plurality of angles and comparing measurements to an expected RF signature before actual antenna testing begins. This preliminary check ensures alignment is verified in advance, preventing time loss during subsequent production testing while maintaining alignment accuracy through systematic angular measurements and signature comparison.
2Measurement precision
If traditional alignment verification methods are used for CATR equipment, then alignment accuracy can be maintained, but testing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-verification by automatically rotating the reference antenna through multiple angles, collecting RF measurements, comparing them to the expected signature, and determining alignment status without requiring external alignment experts or complex manual procedures. This self-service approach maintains alignment accuracy while reducing testing costs by eliminating the need for expensive manual alignment services.
3Productivity
If rapid alignment verification is implemented, then testing speed increases, but measurement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment verification process is segmented into discrete angular positions, with the reference antenna rotated through a plurality of specific angles. Each angle provides an independent measurement point that contributes to the overall alignment determination. This segmentation transforms a potentially complex continuous alignment problem into manageable discrete steps, enabling rapid verification while controlling measurement complexity through systematic angular sampling.
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 significantly reduces the time and cost associated with verifying CATR alignment, enabling faster and more economical testing of millimeter wave antenna systems.
Implementation Method 1
A reference antenna may be used to transmit and/or receive test signals in the CATR
Implementation Method 2
the CATR may perform poorly if the alignment of the elements is poor
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, and systems for verifying alignment of a compact antenna test range (CATR) are presented. A radio frequency (RF) profile may be generated based on test signals received by a reference antenna at a plurality of orientations. Phase and amplitude data of the RF profile may be used to determine whether the CATR is aligned properly.