Modular Alignment Fixture for 5G Phased Array Antenna Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing phase array antennas in 5G devices are slow, expensive, and difficult to integrate with automatic testing equipment, often focusing on individual elements rather than the entire array, and may not accurately correlate with 3GPP Direct Far Field methods, leading to uncertainty in results due to measurement antenna interference.
Innovation Solution
A modular alignment fixture that provides the necessary friction and isolation for phase array antennas, allowing for correct positioning within an anechoic chamber, enabling efficient over-the-air testing of beamforming capabilities and reducing electromagnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional testing methods are used for phase array antennas, then individual element functionality can be tested, but the beamforming capability of the entire array cannot be tested and the testing process is slow and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system is segmented into modular components including a handler for device manipulation, an anechoic chamber for electromagnetic isolation, and integrated alignment fixtures. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to enable rapid OTA testing of entire phase array antennas rather than individual elements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple testing functions into a single integrated OTA testing system. The handler, anechoic chamber, and alignment fixtures are merged into one cohesive system that can test the complete beamforming capability of phase array antennas in a single operation, eliminating the need for separate testing procedures
2Reliability
If OTA chambers are incorporated into production testing, then beamforming capability can be tested, but scalability constraints make it difficult to achieve high volume production
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system is designed with universal components that can handle multiple device types and configurations. The modular alignment fixtures and handler can be reconfigured for different phase array antenna designs, allowing the same OTA chamber infrastructure to support high volume production testing across various 5G device models without sacrificing beamforming testing accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic alignment capabilities where the alignment fixtures can be adjusted and reconfigured during operation. This dynamic adaptability allows the testing system to maintain precise positioning for accurate beamforming measurements while rapidly transitioning between different device types to achieve high production volumes
3Measurement precision
If measurement antenna is used for testing, then signal reception can be achieved, but the measurement antenna adds extra uncertainty to the results
Solution Approach 1:
The anechoic chamber serves as an intermediary environment that isolates the measurement process from external electromagnetic interference. By placing both the device under test and measurement antenna within this controlled environment, the system reduces measurement uncertainty caused by multipath effects and external signals, thereby improving signal measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The anechoic chamber creates an electromagnetically inert environment using absorptive materials that prevent signal reflection and interference. This inert electromagnetic atmosphere ensures that measurements of phase array antenna beamforming capabilities are not contaminated by external or internal reflections, significantly reducing measurement uncertainty
4Manufacturing precision
If alignment fixture provides friction for positioning, then DUT can be held in testing position, but excessive friction may prevent proper alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment fixture incorporates dynamic friction control where the friction level can be adjusted during the alignment process. Initially, lower friction allows easy insertion and movement of the device under test for alignment, then friction is increased to lock the device in the precise testing position, thereby achieving both ease of operation and manufacturing precision
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 rapid, cost-effective, and accurate testing of phase array antennas by ensuring correct alignment and isolation, thereby improving the scalability and reliability of 5G device manufacturing by validating the beamforming capabilities of phase array antennas.
Implementation Method 1
A level of friction may be determined for a specific type of device under test (DUT)). An alignment fixture may be configured to provide the desired level of friction
Implementation Method 2
While in the testing position, the alignment fixture may isolate the DUT(s) from electromagnetic interference
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments are presented of a system including an alignment fixture for testing (e.g., rapidly and cheaply) phased array antennas and other devices configured for radio frequency (RF) transmission and/or reception. A device to be tested (e.g., the device under test (DUT)) may be positioned in a testing position by the alignment fixture. The alignment fixture may provide a configurable level of friction to retain the DUT in the testing position. The alignment fixture may provide isolation from electromagnetic interference for the DUT while in the testing position.