Distributed Smart Antenna Array for UAS Collision Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Traffic Alert/Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) directional antennas are too large and inflexible for many unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), often facing installation constraints due to engineering, aerodynamic, or balance issues, and require specific optimal locations which may not be available.
Innovation Solution
A distributed antenna system utilizing an array of monopole 'smart antennas' with integrated receivers and digital signal processing, allowing for flexible installation and dynamic configuration, capable of determining bearing without strict positional constraints through phase calibration and high-speed data networking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional directional antennas are used, then bearing detection functionality is achieved, but the antenna size becomes too large for many UAS vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the conventional single directional antenna into multiple separate monopole antenna elements distributed across the UAS vehicle. Each monopole element is simple and compact, but collectively they provide the bearing detection functionality through spatial distribution and signal processing, resolving the contradiction between size and functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point directional antenna to a distributed array of monopole elements across two or more dimensions of the UAS vehicle. This spatial distribution in multiple dimensions enables bearing detection while keeping individual elements small, overcoming the size limitation.
2Measurement precision
If conventional directional antennas are used, then bearing detection is possible, but installation flexibility is reduced due to strict positional constraints
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the antenna system into multiple independent monopole elements, the patent allows each element to be installed separately at various locations on the UAS vehicle. This segmentation removes the constraint of requiring a single optimal location, enabling flexible installation adapted to different vehicle configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The distributed monopole antenna elements can be installed at multiple locations and serve multiple functions: each contributes to bearing detection, and their distributed nature allows them to work around obstructions and fuel bladders. The system becomes universally adaptable to different UAS configurations.
3Measurement precision
If conventional directional antennas are used, then directional functionality is achieved, but installation location is constrained by engineering and aerodynamic issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the antenna system into multiple monopole elements that can be installed at non-optimal locations without compromising overall performance. Each element is simple to install, and their collective arrangement provides directional detection, making installation easier compared to a single conventional antenna requiring precise positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different monopole elements to be installed at different locations based on local constraints (fuel bladders, aerodynamic considerations). Each location's specific characteristics are accommodated, and the overall system maintains directional functionality through the distributed arrangement.
4Measurement precision
If conventional directional antennas are used, then bearing detection is achieved, but the antenna may be obstructed by rear fins causing bearing issues
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the antenna system into multiple distributed monopole elements, the patent ensures that not all elements are simultaneously obstructed by rear fins. The spatial distribution allows some elements to maintain clear signal paths, and signal processing combines their outputs to achieve accurate bearing detection despite partial obstructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial parameters of the antenna system from a single location to multiple distributed locations. This parameter change in spatial distribution alters the interaction with obstructing structures like rear fins, reducing their harmful impact on overall bearing detection capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
Various communication systems may benefit from suitable antenna systems. For example, unmanned aircraft may benefit from systems and methods for providing a distributed airborne collision avoidance system antenna array. An apparatus can include a transceiver configured to transmit and receive avionics signals at a host vehicle. The apparatus can also include an interface configured to communicate with an array of a plurality of avionics receivers, wherein the avionics receivers are configured to receive the avionics signals at the host vehicle.