Digital Phased Array Feed for Multi-Band Beam Steering
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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 specifically for one reflector, but the antenna can only communicate with one flight object at a time and cannot track multiple moving objects simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is segmented into multiple independent antenna elements arranged in a phased array configuration. Each element can be independently controlled to form multiple simultaneous beams, enabling the system to communicate with multiple flight objects across different bands simultaneously while sharing a common reflector structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The phased array feed system provides multi-functionality by enabling the single antenna system to perform multiple operations simultaneously: multi-band communication, multi-target tracking, and electronic beam steering without mechanical movement. This universal system replaces multiple specialized single-band antennas.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical adjustments are made to maintain beam alignment with moving objects, then the antenna can track flight objects, but the system becomes difficult to stabilize on moving objects like ships and aircraft
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical beam steering adjustments with electronic phase and amplitude control of individual antenna elements. This electronic beamforming allows rapid, precise, and vibration-free beam steering to track moving objects, eliminating the instability caused by mechanical movements on platforms like ships and aircraft.
Solution Approach 2:
The phased array system provides dynamic beam steering capability where beam direction can be changed electronically in real-time without physical movement. This dynamic control enables continuous tracking of moving flight objects while maintaining system stability on moving platforms through software-based adaptation.
3Productivity
If digital beamforming with multiple frequency converters is implemented, then simultaneous tracking of multiple flight objects is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The signal processing system is segmented into multiple independent frequency converter modules, each handling a specific frequency band. Each converter includes phase shifters and amplitude controllers that operate independently, allowing parallel processing of multiple bands and enabling simultaneous multi-object tracking through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes signal parameters (phase and amplitude) for each antenna element independently through digital control. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the system can electronically steer multiple beams to different directions and frequencies simultaneously, achieving multi-object tracking through parameter modulation rather than physical reconfiguration.
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 frequencies, 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.