Movable Sub-Reflector for Multiband Tracking Antenna
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tracking antenna systems require multiple reflectors and complex configurations to accommodate both C-band and Ku-band signals, leading to increased complexity and susceptibility to interference, while a single reflector system capable of receiving both bands is desirable for stable satellite communication.
Innovation Solution
A tracking antenna system with a single primary reflector and a movable sub-reflector that switches between positions to redirect RF signals from the primary reflector to either a C-band or Ku-band feed, allowing for seamless operation across both frequency bands using stationary primary and secondary feeds and an actuator mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple reflectors are used to accommodate both C-band and Ku-band signals, then the antenna system can receive both frequency bands, but the system complexity increases and susceptibility to interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable sub-reflector that can dynamically change its position between a deployed configuration (for Ku-band operation) and a stowed configuration (for C-band operation). This dynamic repositioning allows a single primary reflector to serve multiple frequency bands by changing the signal path through the sub-reflector's position, thereby reducing the need for multiple fixed reflectors and lowering overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single primary reflector is designed to perform multiple functions by working with the movable sub-reflector in different configurations. When the sub-reflector is deployed, the system operates in Ku-band mode; when stowed, it operates in C-band mode. This multi-functionality allows one reflector structure to replace what would traditionally require separate reflectors for each frequency band.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple reflectors are used to accommodate both C-band and Ku-band signals, then the antenna system can receive both frequency bands, but the system becomes more susceptible to interference
Solution Approach 1:
By dynamically positioning the sub-reflector, the system creates distinct, isolated signal paths for C-band and Ku-band operations. When the sub-reflector is in the deployed position, it directs Ku-band signals along a specific path while C-band signals pass through unaffected. Conversely, when stowed, C-band signals are directed to the feed while Ku-band signals are blocked. This dynamic isolation reduces mutual interference between the two frequency bands.
3Device complexity
If a single reflector system is used, then the complexity is reduced and interference is minimized, but the capability to receive both C-band and Ku-band signals is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The single primary reflector system achieves multi-band capability through the dynamic sub-reflector mechanism. The sub-reflector's movement between deployed and stowed positions enables the same physical reflector structure to serve both C-band and Ku-band frequencies, maintaining simplicity while achieving versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable sub-reflector acts as an intermediary element that enables the single primary reflector to serve multiple functions. By inserting or removing the sub-reflector from the signal path, the system can redirect signals appropriate for each frequency band to the common feed, allowing one reflector to effectively become two functional reflectors through the intermediary's positioning.
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 stable and accurate tracking of satellites across C-band and Ku-band frequencies with a single antenna, reducing interference and complexity, and improving operational reliability by using a single reflector system.
Implementation Method 1
a sub-reflector that moves between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the sub-reflector is out of the first RF path such that radio waves reflected by the reflector pass uninterrupted along the first RF path to first feed
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
A tracking antenna system for use in a plurality of discrete radio frequency (RF) spectrums includes a stabilized antenna support configured to direct and maintain the antenna in alignment with a communications satellite, a reflector mounted on the stabilized antenna support, the reflector reflecting radio waves along a first RF path, a first feed for gathering radio waves within a first of the discrete RF spectrums traveling from the reflector, a sub-reflector movable between first and second positions, the first position outside the first RF path.