Fresnel Structure Antenna Array for Versatile Device Testing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current test systems for devices under test, such as communication devices, require multiple antenna arrays and recalibration for different device sizes and frequencies, leading to increased effort and costs due to the need for separate setups.

Innovation Solution

A test system comprising an antenna array and a Fresnel structure adjustment unit placed between the antenna array and the device under test, allowing for the adjustment of plane waves to accommodate different device sizes and frequencies without recalibrating the system, using a single antenna array by positioning the adjustment unit within the Fraunhofer distance and configuring it to project various field distributions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple antenna arrays are used to test different device sizes and frequencies, then testing versatility is improved, but device complexity and costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting versatilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal antenna array system that can test multiple device sizes and frequencies by dynamically adjusting the near-field to far-field conversion characteristics. The single antenna array is designed to handle diverse testing scenarios through parameter adjustment rather than requiring separate dedicated arrays for each test condition, thereby achieving multi-functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the antenna array to adapt its electromagnetic field characteristics in real-time. By changing operational parameters such as frequency and positioning, the same physical antenna array can dynamically convert between near-field and far-field conditions to accommodate different device under test configurations, eliminating the need for static multiple arrays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Measurement precision

If antenna arrays are recalibrated for different test conditions, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoidloss of time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary calibration setup during the initial configuration phase, establishing a universal calibration framework that can accommodate multiple test conditions. By pre-configuring the antenna array to handle various near-field to far-field conversion scenarios, the system eliminates the need for repeated recalibration when switching between different device sizes or frequencies, thus reducing time loss while maintaining measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Device complexity

If a single antenna array is used for different frequencies, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidfrequency adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes parameter changes in the electromagnetic operating characteristics of the antenna array to achieve frequency adaptability. By adjusting operational parameters such as excitation frequency, element activation patterns, and near-field to far-field conversion parameters, the single antenna array can effectively adapt to different frequency requirements without physical modification, thereby maintaining low device complexity while achieving high frequency versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 cost-effective testing of devices under far field conditions at different frequencies and sizes without the need for multiple antenna arrays, enhancing the efficiency and reducing calibration efforts by adapting the frequency range through the Fresnel structure without changing the antenna array.

Implementation Method 1

an adjustment unit having a Fresnel structure wherein the adjustment unit is placed between the antenna array and the device under test

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFresnel diffraction: Fresnel Diffraction

Implementation Method 2

an antenna array which has a plurality of individual antenna elements used to emit electromagnetic waves

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP3312619B1Test system and method for testing a device under test
Publication Date: 2022.03.30 ROHDE & SCHWARZ GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3312619B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3312619B1 patent drawing
  • EP3312619B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A test system (10) for testing a device under test (12) is described, which comprises an antenna array (14) having a plurality of antenna elements (18) and an adjustment unit (16) having a Fresnel structure. The adjustment unit (16) is placed between the antenna array (14) and the device under test (12). Further, a method for testing a device under test (12) is described.