Integrated Antenna Module for Over-the-Air RF Pulse Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio frequency (RF) test systems face calibration issues due to the use of separate components interconnected by cables, and they are unable to generate radio frequency pulses for evaluating device characteristics over-the-air.
Innovation Solution
An integrated antenna module comprising a signal generation module, a measurement module, and an antenna, where the signal generation module includes a control unit that processes digital control signals to generate short RF pulses with steep edges, allowing for over-the-air RF testing without separate cables, and the measurement module performs analog measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate components are used for signal generation and control, then the system can be controlled externally, but calibration issues arise due to cable connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the signal generator and control unit into a single integrated antenna module. The control unit is directly integrated within the signal generation module, eliminating the need for external cable connections between separate components. This integration maintains external controllability through a control input while eliminating calibration issues caused by cable connections between separate components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate components are used for measurement and signal generation, then the system can be modular, but the system cannot generate RF pulses for over-the-air testing
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated antenna module performs multiple functions within a single unified structure. It can generate RF signals, generate RF pulses for over-the-air testing, and perform measurements. The module includes both a signal generation module with control unit and a measurement module, enabling it to function as both a signal source and a measurement instrument, thus achieving universality rather than modular separation.
3Reliability
If integrated construction is used for antenna module, then calibration is simplified and RF pulse generation is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the control unit and signal generator into a single compact module with a unified housing. This merging reduces the overall system complexity by eliminating the need for external cable connections and separate component mounting. The integration simplifies the system architecture while maintaining all necessary functions, actually reducing rather than increasing device complexity.
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 a compact, cost-efficient antenna module capable of generating and measuring RF pulses within the microwave range, enabling accurate over-the-air testing with fast switching times and steep signal edges, thus addressing calibration and pulse generation limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The signal generation module generates an analog radio frequency (RF) signal, particularly a radio frequency signal pulse
Implementation Method 2
The antenna is assigned to the measurement module and the signal generation module
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna module for over-the-air testing, the antenna module comprises a signal generation module, a measurement module, and an antenna. The signal generation module comprises a control input. The measurement module comprises an analog output. The antenna is assigned to the measurement module and the signal generation module. The signal generation module comprises a signal generator and a control unit assigned to the control input. The control unit is configured to receive a control signal via the control input. The control unit is configured to process the control signal received via the control input, thereby controlling output of the signal generation module. Further, a test system is described.