Non-Uniform Array Beamforming With Adaptive Genetic Weights

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional beamforming techniques struggle with non-uniform antenna arrays, particularly those with unknown or damaged elements, as they require a priori knowledge of array uniformity and cannot effectively adjust weights to achieve specified beam patterns.

Innovation Solution

Utilizing machine learning algorithms, specifically genetic algorithms, to determine and apply weights dynamically to non-uniform antenna arrays, compensating for unknown or damaged elements to achieve desired beam patterns.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional beamforming techniques are used with non-uniform arrays, then the system requires a priori knowledge of array uniformity and cannot handle damaged elements, but this limits the adaptability and reliability of the system

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to non-uniform arraysVSAvoidperformance with damaged elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by using machine learning algorithms to dynamically adjust the weights of antenna elements based on observed signal characteristics. Instead of requiring fixed a priori knowledge of array uniformity, the system adapts weights in real-time to compensate for non-uniformities and damaged elements, transforming the static weight configuration into a dynamic, adaptive parameter set that responds to actual array conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements self-service by using the received signals themselves to determine the appropriate weights for beamforming. The machine learning algorithm processes the actual signal data from the non-uniform array and automatically adjusts weights to achieve desired beam patterns, eliminating the need for external calibration or manual intervention to characterize array non-uniformities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If machine learning algorithms are used to determine weights dynamically, then the system can handle non-uniform arrays without a priori knowledge, but this increases device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to process non-uniform arraysVSAvoidcomplexity of weight determination system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes traditional mechanical or manual weight determination methods with machine learning algorithms. Instead of using fixed lookup tables, manual calibration procedures, or simple adaptive algorithms that require extensive a priori knowledge, the system employs intelligent algorithms that automatically learn and adapt to array characteristics from the signal data itself, reducing the need for complex external calibration systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Device complexity

If traditional techniques require a priori knowledge of non-uniformities, then the processing is simpler, but this loses information about actual array conditions and reduces measurement precision

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of processingVSAvoidaccuracy of beam pattern achievement
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback by using the actual received signals to continuously monitor and adjust the weights. The machine learning algorithm processes the signal data and uses this feedback to refine weight assignments, ensuring that the beam patterns accurately reflect the true array conditions rather than relying on potentially inaccurate a priori assumptions about non-uniformities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20250266876A1Beamforming techniques from non-uniform arrays
Publication Date: 2025.08.21 KBR WYLE SERVICES LLC
  • US20250266876A1 patent drawing
  • US20250266876A1 patent drawing
  • US20250266876A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods are provided for generating weights for a non-uniform array. Control circuitry for the non-uniform array may receive an indication that signals transmitted by the non-uniform array should be modified to improve similarity to a specified beam pattern. The control circuitry may select a subset of potential parameters with a first genetic algorithm. Based on these parameters, the control circuitry may generate weights for the non-uniform array with a second genetic algorithm, where each determined weight impacts signal output by an element of the antenna array or other machine learning techniques can be used. The control circuitry may apply the weights to the non-uniform array.