Portable Flat-Panel Satellite Antenna With RF-Transparent Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional satellite communication systems are isolated and non-integrated, requiring SATCOM technicians for deployment and manual pointing, and are not suitable for rapid on-the-move operations, which is critical in disaster response and military applications.
Innovation Solution
A portable satellite antenna system with a RF transparent lid and a flat-panel electronically steered antenna housed in a ruggedized container, allowing for rapid deployment and operation without manual pointing, and enabling seamless communication across terrestrial and on-orbit networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional VSAT terminals are used, then satellite communication capability is provided, but deployment complexity increases requiring SATCOM technicians and manual pointing
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-acquisition and self-pointing through automated satellite search algorithms and electronic beam steering, eliminating the need for SATCOM technicians and manual pointing operations. The terminal autonomously acquires satellite signals and establishes communication links.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical pointing mechanisms with electronic beam steering using phased array technology. Instead of physically moving the antenna structure to track satellites, the system electronically steers the beam by adjusting phase and amplitude of signals across multiple antenna elements.
2Speed
If manual pointing mechanisms are used, then satellite tracking is achieved, but operation time increases and mobility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates satellite positions and acquisition sequences, and pre-configures electronic beam steering parameters. When deployment begins, the terminal can rapidly acquire satellites without time-consuming mechanical adjustments, achieving satellite lock in minutes rather than hours.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic electronic beam steering that can rapidly adjust beam direction and focus in response to satellite motion and position changes. This dynamic control enables fast tracking and re-acquisition without mechanical inertia delays.
3Strength
If the antenna is housed in a container, then protection and portability are improved, but RF signal transmission is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The container incorporates an RF-transparent lid or cover made from dielectric materials that allow RF signals to pass through while providing physical protection. This enables the antenna to operate both in exposed and enclosed configurations without compromising signal transmission or protection.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional deployable VSATs are used, then satellite communication is established, but on-the-move operations are not supported
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is designed with universal mounting capabilities for multiple platforms including vehicles, vessels, and portable tripods. The electronic beam steering and rapid acquisition features enable reliable communication whether stationary or in motion, supporting on-the-move operations across diverse platforms.
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
Facilitates rapid satellite acquisition and communication setup in under 5 minutes without expert intervention, providing inconspicuous operation and full-spectrum connectivity for disaster response and military applications.
Implementation Method 1
the container having at least one radio-frequency (RF) transparent material through which the antenna is operable to transmit and receive satellite communications
Data Source
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AI summary
A portable flat panel antenna system and method for using the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, the portable satellite antenna apparatus comprises a flat panel antenna (102) and a container (110) to house the antenna (102), the container (110) having at least one radio-frequency (RF) transparent material through which the antenna (102) is operable to transmit and receive satellite communications.