Collapsible Radial Antenna Assembly for Portable Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional portable navigation systems face challenges in maintaining accurate positioning due to signal shading and the difficulty of portability with multiple antennas, which can lead to loss of position determination in dynamic environments like aircraft or space vehicle refueling.
Innovation Solution
A portable navigation apparatus with a radially distributed antenna assembly that includes a master antenna and multiple auxiliary antennas, capable of transitioning between expanded and collapsed configurations, ensuring durability and compactness while reducing signal shading and improving accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple antennas are used to reduce signal shading and improve positioning accuracy, then positioning accuracy is improved, but portability and ease of transport deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna assembly employs a collapsible support structure that allows transition between an expanded operational configuration and a collapsed transport configuration. This dynamic reconfiguration enables the system to maintain multiple antennas for accurate positioning while becoming compact and portable for easy transport between locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna assembly design allows the auxiliary antennas and support structures to be nested or folded together in a compact arrangement during transport. The multiple antennas are arranged to fit within a small volume when collapsed, similar to nested dolls, while maintaining their functional separation when deployed.
2Reliability
If multiple antennas are used to reduce signal shading, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is divided into a master antenna and multiple auxiliary antennas, each with specific functional roles. The master antenna serves as the primary reference while auxiliary antennas provide redundant signal reception. This segmentation allows the complex function of multi-antenna operation to be managed through clearly defined individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna assembly structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for all antennas, enables collapsible transport, maintains precise geometric relationships between antennas, and facilitates easy deployment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system despite its capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable navigation apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a multi-antenna assembly configured for including an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. The antenna assembly includes a master antenna, and at least two auxiliary antennas. The at least two auxiliary antennas are radially distributed about the master antenna. Furthermore, the master antenna and auxiliary antennas are substantially coplanar when the antenna assembly is in the expanded configuration.