Combined Cross-Link and Communication Phased Array Antenna

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing satellite communication systems require separate and expensive cross-link and communication-link antennas, which are heavy, costly, and inefficient in terms of space and flexibility, offering limited high-data-rate communication capabilities and sub-optimal performance due to single-beam and lower frequency UHF cross-link antennas.

Innovation Solution

A combined cross-link and communication-link phased array antenna system that integrates both functionalities into a single multi-beam phased array, utilizing a Ka-band frequency for higher directivity and flexibility, allowing for steerable beams and reduced weight and cost, with digital processing for enhanced performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate cross-link and communication-link antennas are used, then communication functionality is provided, but weight and cost increase and space efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication functionalityVSAvoidantenna weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines separate cross-link and communication-link antenna arrays into a single integrated phased array structure. The integrated array uses shared elements and unified beamforming control to provide both inter-satellite cross-link communication and satellite-to-ground communication capabilities, thereby reducing total weight while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated phased array is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - it can form independent beams for cross-link communication with other satellites and separate beams for communication with ground stations. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated antenna systems for each communication mode.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate cross-link and communication-link antennas are used, then communication functionality is provided, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication functionalityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If single-beam and lower frequency UHF cross-link antennas are used, then communication is enabled, but directivity and data rate performance deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication capabilityVSAvoiddirectivity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a phased array structure with electronic beamforming capability that allows dynamic steering of high-directivity beams toward specific satellites or ground stations. This electronic steering provides superior directivity compared to fixed single-beam antennas, enabling precise signal focusing and high-data-rate communication links.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated phased array operates at higher frequency bands (such as Ka-band) compared to traditional UHF cross-link antennas. This frequency parameter change enables narrower beam widths and higher directivity, thereby achieving improved data rate performance while maintaining communication capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Adaptability or versatility

If separate cross-link and communication-link antennas are used, then communication functions are provided, but device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication functionVSAvoidantenna system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11223126B1Combined cross-link and communication-link phased array for satellite communication

Publication Date: 2022.01.11 LOCKHEED MARTIN CORP

AI summary

An apparatus includes a cross-link phased array and a communication-link phased array. The cross-link phased array and the communication-link phased array are integrated into a single array. The cross-link phased array and communication-link phased array comprise a multi-beam phased array. The cross-link phased array provides communication between multiple space vehicles and the communication-link phased array provides communication between the satellite and the ground GPS system.