Field Programmable Microwave Array Reconfiguration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional microwave and radio systems for applications like satellites and spacecraft are costly, bulky, and have long development times due to the need for redundant hardware-based components and complex switching arrangements in space-limited environments.

Innovation Solution

A field programmable microwave array (FPMA) with a programmable connection matrix of conductors and switching elements allows for reconfiguration of RF and microwave circuit elements to perform various logical functions, enabling redundancy and adaptability through selective activation of switches, and remote troubleshooting and repair.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If hardware-based radios with redundant spares and switching arrangements are used, then functional reliability is ensured, but the system becomes costly, bulky, and time-consuming to develop

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional reliabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal radio frequency front end module that can perform multiple functions (transmitter, receiver, different signal processing configurations) through a single reconfigurable architecture using software control instead of multiple dedicated hardware components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses dynamic reconfiguration of the radio frequency front end module through software-controlled switching elements that can change the circuit topology and signal paths in real-time, allowing the same hardware to adapt to different operational requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If redundant spares and switching arrangements are implemented, then system reliability is improved, but the size and weight increase in space-limited environments

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem reliabilityVSAvoidsystem weight

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple redundant subsystems into a single integrated reconfigurable module where backup functionality is achieved through software-controlled reconfiguration of the same hardware rather than physical duplicate components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

A single radio frequency front end module is designed to perform multiple functions including transmission, reception, and various signal processing operations, eliminating the need for separate dedicated hardware for each function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If hardware-based radios with complex switching arrangements are used, then functional reliability is ensured, but development time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional reliabilityVSAvoiddevelopment time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses software to dynamically change operational parameters and circuit configurations rather than requiring hardware redesign, allowing rapid adaptation to different applications and requirements without lengthy development cycles

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8774730B1Field programmable microwave arrays

Publication Date: 2014.07.08 LOCKHEED MARTIN CORP

AI summary

A field programmable microwave array is provided. The field programmable microwave array includes one or more RF elements interconnected by an array of switching elements. The switching elements enable the field programmable microwave array to perform one or more RF or microwave subassembly functions.