Multi-Axis Antenna Test Rig for Low-Interference mmWave Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing testing systems struggle to accurately calibrate and measure the radiation patterns of mmWave and THz-frequency antennas in various configurations and orientations, particularly due to interference from reflective surfaces and the sensitivity of high-frequency signals.
Innovation Solution
A multi-axis testing apparatus is employed, utilizing a base portion, arm portion, and platform portion to rotate the DUT around Azimuth, Elevation, and Polarization axes, with non-reflective materials and passthrough holes for wiring to minimize interference, and a frequency extender for higher frequencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If reflective surfaces are used in the testing environment, then structural integrity and ease of construction are improved, but signal interference and measurement accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies anechoic chamber design with absorptive materials that convert harmful reflective signals into beneficial non-reflective conditions. The absorptive lining transforms the problematic reflections into controlled signal absorption, enabling accurate mmWave and THz measurements while maintaining a functional testing space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an electromagnetic inert environment through anechoic chamber construction with signal-absorbing materials. This inert environment prevents unwanted electromagnetic reflections and interactions, allowing clean measurement of the device under test without interference from the surrounding structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-axis rotation capability is added to test various configurations, then adaptability and measurement completeness are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the rotation mechanism into three independent rotational axes (azimuth, elevation, and polarization axes). Each axis can be controlled separately, allowing the DUT to be positioned in various orientations. This segmentation enables comprehensive measurement of radiation patterns while keeping each individual axis mechanism relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-axis rotation system serves multiple functions: it can test antennas in different orientations, calibrate phased arrays, and measure radiation patterns comprehensively. A single integrated rotation mechanism performs all these tasks, reducing the need for separate testing apparatus for each configuration.
3Measurement precision
If frequency extender is used for mmWave and THz frequencies, then measurement accuracy for high-frequency signals is improved, but signal loss and interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frequency extender acts as an intermediary device that converts lower-frequency test signals into mmWave and THz frequencies for the DUT, and vice versa for measurement. This mediator enables the use of existing test equipment to measure high-frequency antennas without requiring direct generation of high-frequency signals, reducing signal loss and interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The frequency extender changes the operating frequency parameter by upconverting test signals to mmWave and THz bands. This parameter transformation allows accurate measurement of high-frequency antenna characteristics while using more stable lower-frequency test signals, reducing the impact of signal loss and interference during testing.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments herein relate to a testing apparatus for coupling with a device-under-test (DUT). The apparatus may include a base portion configured to couple to a testing platform, wherein the base portion is configured to rotate the DUT around a first axis. The apparatus may further include an arm portion configured to rotate the DUT around a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. The apparatus may further include a platform portion configured to couple to the DUT. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.