Non-Focused Reflector Antenna for Flexible Power Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile satellite services (MSS) architectures rely on complex multiport amplifiers (MPAs) that are costly, complex, and limited in their ability to transfer capacity among beams, requiring predetermined capacity allocation before manufacture.
Innovation Solution
The use of dedicated fixed-gain amplifiers for each feed antenna in an array illuminating a non-focused reflector with a fixed amplitude distribution, allowing for selective power allocation among beams without the need for MPAs, and utilizing a non-parabolic reflector curvature to create a symmetrical quadratic phase-front for efficient beam formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiport amplifiers (MPA) are used to provide high power for MSS systems, then power capacity is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power amplification function by replacing the integrated multiport amplifier with multiple dedicated fixed-gain amplifiers, each assigned to specific feed elements. This segmentation simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining the required power capacity for multiple beams simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic power allocation capability through the non-focused reflector configuration, allowing the system to flexibly transfer power capacity among beams in real-time based on demand, rather than being fixed by the MPA architecture. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by enabling high power capacity with simplified, adaptable components.
2Power
If multiport amplifiers (MPA) are used to meet capacity needs, then power delivery is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase due to severe operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the amplification function into dedicated fixed-gain amplifiers for each feed element, the patent reduces the precision requirements for each individual component. Each amplifier operates under less severe conditions compared to the integrated MPA, making manufacturing and calibration more feasible while maintaining overall power delivery capability.
3Ease of operation
If MPA architecture is used with defocused arrays, then beam formation is achieved, but adaptability is reduced as capacity transfer among beams is limited and predetermined
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a non-focused reflector configuration that enables dynamic power allocation and flexible capacity transfer among beams. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to changing traffic demands in real-time, resolving the contradiction between maintaining ease of beam formation and achieving high adaptability for capacity redistribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the reflector from focused to non-focused, which fundamentally alters the beam formation mechanism. This parameter change enables flexible power distribution and capacity transfer among beams while maintaining operational simplicity, thereby resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability.
4Device complexity
If dedicated fixed-gain amplifiers are used for each feed antenna, then device complexity is reduced, but power allocation flexibility must be maintained through alternative mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the non-focused reflector configuration to provide dynamic power allocation capability, compensating for the reduced flexibility that might result from using dedicated fixed-gain amplifiers. The reflector's non-focused geometry enables flexible power distribution among beams, maintaining adaptability while benefiting from the simplified amplifier architecture.
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
This solution reduces system mass, cost, and complexity while enabling flexible power allocation among beams, improving capacity utilization and reducing the number of required feed array elements, thereby enhancing the efficiency and adaptability of satellite systems.
Implementation Method 1
The curvature is configured to create a symmetrical quadratic phase-front in an aperture plane of the reflector
Implementation Method 2
Each feed antenna is configured to contribute power toward each of the plurality of beams
Data Source
AI summary
A antenna system for generating and distributing power among a plurality of non-focused beams is provided The system comprises a reflector having a focal plane and a non-parabolic curvature configured to form the defocused beams. The curvature is configured to create a symmetrical quadratic phase-front in an aperture plane of the reflector. The system further comprises a plurality of feed antennas disposed in the focal plane of the reflector and configured to illuminate the reflector. Each feed antenna is configured to contribute power toward each of the defocused beams. The system further comprises a plurality of fixed-amplitude amplifiers, at least one of which corresponds to each feed antenna.