Digital Beamformed Phased Array Feed for Multi-Band Multi-Target Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional satellite communication systems are limited by traditional antennas designed for single-band signals, allowing only one flight object to be communicated with at a time, and face challenges in stabilizing antennas on moving objects like ships and aircraft due to mechanical pointing requirements.
Innovation Solution
A digitally beamformed phased array feed system utilizing 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, enabling simultaneous tracking of multiple flight objects with a single antenna array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional single-band antenna design is used, then the antenna can be designed for a specific frequency, but it can only communicate with one flight object at a time
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, S, C, X, Ku, Ka bands) and simultaneously communicate with multiple flight objects. This is achieved through digital beamforming that can dynamically configure the antenna to serve multiple functions and frequency ranges, eliminating the need for separate single-band antennas for each communication task.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna system is divided into multiple independently controllable beamforming channels, each capable of processing signals for different frequency bands and directional targets. This segmentation allows the system to simultaneously handle multiple frequency bands and multiple flight objects by directing different beam segments toward different targets, resolving the limitation of single-object communication.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical pointing is used to track flight objects, then the antenna can be aimed at a specific target, but it cannot track multiple moving objects simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical pointing system with an electronic beamforming system. Instead of physically moving the antenna to track flight objects, the system uses digital signal processing to electronically steer and shape the antenna beam. This substitution enables simultaneous tracking of multiple moving objects without mechanical complexity, as the electronic system can rapidly reconfigure beams for different targets without physical movement or stabilization requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The beamforming system dynamically adjusts the phase and amplitude of signals across the antenna array elements in real-time to track multiple moving flight objects. This dynamic electronic reconfiguration allows the system to adapt to moving targets without mechanical movement, enabling flexible multi-target tracking with improved ease of operation compared to mechanical systems.
3Productivity
If a single antenna array is used for multiple frequency bands, then device complexity is reduced, but traditional beamforming techniques cannot process multiple bands simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The digital beamforming system is segmented into multiple independent processing channels, each dedicated to a specific frequency band. This channelized architecture allows simultaneous processing of multiple frequency bands through parallel digital signal processing, resolving the limitation of traditional single-band beamforming while maintaining a unified antenna structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operating parameters (phase, amplitude, frequency) of each antenna element dynamically through digital control to accommodate multiple frequency bands. By programmatically adjusting these parameters, the single antenna array can be reconfigured for different frequency bands and beam directions, enabling simultaneous multi-band communication with improved productivity despite increased digital processing requirements.
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.