Over-the-Air Measurement Module for High-Frequency Signal Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring high-frequency communication signals face challenges in achieving high accuracy and small size with minimal hardware effort, as cable connections can influence the behavior of devices under test and result in measurement inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
An over-the-air measurement module comprising a planar antenna, a mixer for frequency conversion, and a power sensor, mounted in a shielded box with absorptive surfaces to minimize reflections, utilizing monolithic microwave integrated circuit technology and coaxial connectors to maintain low power loss and achieve flexible, accurate measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If cable connections are used to connect signal source to measuring device, then signal transmission is achieved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to influence on device under test
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an over-the-air measurement module as an intermediary between the device under test and the measuring device. This module receives signals wirelessly via antenna, converts them to lower frequencies through mixing, and transmits the converted signals to the measuring device. This intermediary approach eliminates direct cable connections to the device under test, thereby preventing measurement inaccuracies caused by cable-induced behavioral changes while still enabling accurate signal measurement.
2Measurement precision
If over the air measurement is implemented, then influence on device under test is reduced, but signal frequency is extremely high requiring specialized handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by converting the signal frequency from extremely high frequencies (e.g., millimeter wave range) to lower intermediate frequencies through mixing with a local oscillator signal. This frequency transformation enables standard measuring devices to process the signals accurately while maintaining the benefits of over-the-air measurement. The parameter change from high frequency to lower frequency resolves the complexity issue without sacrificing measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If high frequency signals are measured directly, then signal integrity is maintained, but standard measuring devices cannot process the signals
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement module performs frequency conversion by mixing the received high-frequency signal with a local oscillator signal to produce an intermediate frequency signal. This parameter change in frequency enables compatibility with standard measuring devices that cannot directly process extremely high frequencies, while the mixing process maintains signal integrity through coherent detection. The frequency transformation bridges the gap between high-frequency signal sources and standard measurement equipment.
4Measurement precision
If measurements are performed without shielded enclosure, then device size is reduced, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a shielded box enclosing the measurement module components to create an electromagnetic inert environment. This shielded enclosure isolates the sensitive mixing and signal processing components from external electromagnetic interference, thereby ensuring high measurement accuracy. The shielded box acts as an inert electromagnetic environment that protects against unwanted signal coupling and interference, justifying the increased volume as necessary for maintaining 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 precise and flexible measurement of high-frequency signals with reduced reflections and power loss, allowing for accurate signal acquisition and transmission without influencing the device under test, while maintaining a compact module size.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna, which is adapted to receive a first measuring signal from a device under test or adapted to transmit a second measuring signal to the device under test
Implementation Method 2
a mixer which is directly connected to said antenna and is adapted to reduce or increase a frequency of the received first measuring signal
Implementation Method 3
at least some surfaces, advantageously all surfaces of the measuring module facing in the main radiation direction of the antenna are adapted to absorb electromagnetic radiation and do not reflect electromagnetic radiation
Data Source
AI summary
An over the aft measurement module comprises an antenna, adapted to receive a first measuring signal from a device under test or adapted to transmit a second measuring signal to the device under test. Furthermore, the over the air measurement module comprises a mixer, directly connected to said antenna, adapted to reduce or increase a frequency of the received first measuring signal, resulting in a frequency reduced or increased first measuring signal, or adapted to increase or reduce a frequency of a frequency reduced or increased second measuring signal, resulting in the second measuring signal. In addition to this, the over the air measurement module comprises a first connector, connected to said mixer, adapted to input a local oscillator signal into the mixer for frequency conversion.