MEMS Radiometer Calibration Shielding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Radiometer arrays used in microwave detection systems face challenges in calibration, particularly due to the difficulty in calibrating each pixel, which affects the accuracy and efficiency of scanning large surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A calibration system comprising MEMS units and actuators that shield the radiometer antennas to generate environmental signals, allowing for the normalization of gains across the radiometer array, enabling precise calibration of radiometer arrays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If radiometers are arranged in an array to reduce scanning time, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases due to the difficulty of calibrating each pixel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple calibration functions into a single integrated calibration device that can simultaneously calibrate multiple radiometer elements in the array. The calibration device includes a control unit, signal generator, and switching mechanism that work together to provide unified calibration control for all array elements, thereby reducing overall calibration complexity while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a calibration device as an intermediary system between the control unit and the radiometer array elements. This calibration device acts as a mediator that generates calibration signals and distributes them to individual array elements through switching mechanisms, simplifying the calibration process by providing a centralized calibration interface rather than requiring direct calibration of each element
2Measurement precision
If mechanical scan systems are used to scan large surface targets, then measurement precision is maintained, but loss of time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static mechanical scanning to a dynamic array-based detection system where multiple radiometer elements can simultaneously detect different portions of the target. The system dynamically switches between array elements and incorporates rapid calibration capabilities, enabling both high precision and fast scanning by eliminating the need for slow mechanical movement while maintaining detection accuracy through electronic beam steering and simultaneous multi-point measurement
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 system achieves efficient and accurate calibration of radiometer arrays, reducing discrepancies in gain values and improving scanning efficiency by normalizing the environmental signals received across the array.
Implementation Method 1
the actuator enables the MEMS unit to shield an antenna of the radiometer according to the calibration signal, such that the radiometer generates an environmental signal according to an equivalent radiant temperature received from the MEMS unit
Data Source
AI summary
A calibration device, capable of calibrating a gain of a radiometer, includes an actuator and a micro-electromechanical-system (MEMS) unit. The actuator receives a calibration signal outputted from a control unit. The MEMS unit is coupled to the actuator, in which the actuator enables the MEMS unit to shield an antenna of the radiometer according to the calibration signal, such that the radiometer generates an environmental signal according to an equivalent radiant temperature received from the MEMS unit, and the control unit calibrates the gain of the radiometer according to the environmental signal.