Hybrid Dual-Mode Phased Array Antenna for 3D Volumetric Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies for volumetric measurements of stockpiles, especially for non-flat surfaces, are inadequate due to limitations in accuracy, range, angular resolution, and cost, leading to errors and increased costs in custody transfer and inventory management.
Innovation Solution
A low-cost phased array antenna apparatus with beam steering capabilities, operating in a hybrid dual mode with MIMO radar and active beamforming, is used to perform direct 3D volumetric measurements of materials with varying slopes and uneven surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ground-based LiDAR technology using laser beams is used to measure distances and create detailed 3D point cloud representations, then measurement precision is improved, but the device becomes vulnerable in dusty environments and restrained towards flammable substances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical LiDAR technology with electromagnetic radar technology. The phased array antenna system uses radio frequency waves instead of laser beams to perform volumetric measurements, eliminating vulnerability to dust and flammable substances while maintaining measurement capability through electromagnetic wave reflection and time-of-flight measurement.
2Measurement precision
If ultrasonic level sensors are used to measure the level of materials in silos or tanks, then the level can be estimated, but the method assumes consistent material density throughout the stockpile which may not be accurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional point-to-point level sensing to three-dimensional volumetric sensing. The phased array antenna captures spatial distribution of material across the entire stockpile volume, enabling measurement of surface topology, density variations, and irregular shapes that single-point sensors cannot detect.
3Measurement precision
If manual methods with tape measures and surveying equipment are used to measure dimensions of stockpiles, then volume can be calculated using mathematical formulas, but the approach is time-consuming and prone to human errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs rapid electromagnetic wave-based volumetric measurement that automatically calculates three-dimensional stockpile geometry in real-time. The phased array antenna system captures complete spatial data and computes volume instantly through signal processing, eliminating manual measurement steps and human error while providing continuous monitoring capability.
4Ease of operation
If current level sensing instruments are used for point to point applications, then one dimensional measurements can be obtained, but accurate determination of volume for non-flat surfaces cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional measurement system where the phased array antenna performs both level detection and volumetric measurement simultaneously. The system adapts to various stockpile configurations including flat and non-flat surfaces, providing comprehensive three-dimensional spatial awareness that single-point sensors cannot achieve.
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
The solution provides high-resolution, accurate, and real-time 3D volumetric sensing, capable of handling non-flat surfaces and harsh environments, while being cost-effective and compact, thus addressing the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
The phased array aperture operates with a hybrid dual mode comprising a radar mode and an active beaming steering mode
Implementation Method 2
transmit antenna array comprising a plurality of transmit antenna elements... receive antenna elements... isolated from each other
Data Source
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AI summary
An antenna apparatus and a method of operating the antenna apparatus can include a group of receive antenna elements and a transmit antenna array comprising transmit antenna elements, wherein the transmit antenna array is located centrally in a phased array aperture that includes the transmit array antenna and the plurality of receive antenna elements. An isolation area can isolate the transmit antenna array from the receive antenna elements in the phased array aperture, and the phased array aperture can operate with a hybrid dual mode comprising a radar mode and an active beaming steering mode. The radar mode can be a multiple input multiple output (MIMO) radar mode, and the beamforming mode can be an antenna beamforming mode.