Phased Array Antenna Module Servicing via Thermal System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phased array antenna systems are complex and costly to service due to the need for extensive disassembly and reassembly, which limits their deployment to high-end applications and increases the risk of component damage.
Innovation Solution
A phased array antenna system design where horn/filter assemblies are mounted directly on modules, with a thermal system providing cooling and structural support, allowing modules to be serviced without removing distribution boards or disassembling the system, using interconnects that pass through the thermal system to connect modules with distribution boards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If conventional phased array antenna systems are assembled with multiple distribution boards and modules, then the system provides complete functionality, but servicing modules requires extensive disassembly and removal of distribution boards
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into independent module assemblies, each containing a module, distribution board, and interconnects as an integrated unit. This segmentation allows individual module assemblies to be accessed and serviced independently without requiring disassembly of the entire antenna system, resolving the contradiction between ease of repair and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Module assemblies are extracted as removable units from the antenna system. Each module assembly can be completely removed from the support structure as a single unit, allowing servicing without extensive disassembly of distribution boards or other system components, thereby improving ease of repair while maintaining complete system functionality.
2Ease of repair
If extensive disassembly and reassembly is performed for module servicing, then module access is achieved, but time and costs associated with removal, testing, and reassembly increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into modular assemblies that can be independently accessed, the patent eliminates the need for extensive disassembly and reassembly during servicing. Each module assembly can be removed and serviced quickly without affecting other parts of the system, significantly reducing servicing time and associated costs.
3Ease of repair
If distribution boards are removed to access faulty modules, then module servicing is enabled, but the risk of further damage to the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the system so that module assemblies are independent units that can be accessed without removing distribution boards. This eliminates the risk of damaging distribution boards or other electronic components during module servicing, maintaining system integrity while enabling easy repair.
Solution Approach 2:
Module assemblies are extracted as complete units including their associated distribution boards and interconnects. This extraction approach allows module servicing without any removal of distribution boards from the support structure, eliminating the risk of further damage to the system during servicing.
4Reliability
If previously removed components are retested and reinstalled after module servicing, then system proper operation is ensured, but costs associated with these efforts increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into independent module assemblies with integrated distribution boards, the patent eliminates the need for retesting and reinstallation of distribution boards after module servicing. Only the specific module assembly needs to be tested and reinstalled, significantly reducing servicing costs while ensuring system proper operation.
5Adaptability or versatility
If large numbers of dedicated individual parts and subassemblies are used, then complete system functionality is achieved, but excessive part counts with considerable mass result
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the module, distribution board, and interconnects into integrated module assemblies. This consolidation reduces the total number of separate parts and subassemblies while maintaining complete system functionality, thereby reducing excessive part counts and considerable mass associated with dedicated individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The module assemblies are designed as universal units that can be used in multiple positions and configurations within the antenna system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated individual parts for different functions, decreasing overall part counts and system mass while maintaining complete functionality.
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 design reduces the number of components that need to be disassembled and reassembled, saving time and cost, while minimizing the risk of damage and achieving significant mass reductions, enabling more efficient and cost-effective deployment of phased array antenna systems.
Implementation Method 1
a thermal system adapted to cool the modules, wherein the modules are mounted on a first surface of the thermal system
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed herein to provide improved phased array antenna system. For example, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a phased array antenna system includes a plurality of horn/filter assemblies. A plurality of modules are adapted to provide RF signals to the horn/filter assemblies. Each of the horn/filter assemblies is mounted on a top surface of a corresponding one of the modules. A thermal system is adapted to cool the modules. The modules are mounted on a first surface of the thermal system. A plurality of distribution boards associated with the modules are mounted on a second surface of the thermal system. A plurality of interconnects associated with the modules are adapted to connect the modules with the distribution boards through the thermal system.