Phased Array Antenna Integral Calibration Network
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phased array antenna calibration methods are either impractical in confined spaces due to the need for a distant calibration source or require expensive and complex alignment procedures when using a proximate calibration source, making field recalibration of antenna elements time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
A phased array antenna arrangement with a point RF-source in the far field zone, a distance measurement unit, an amplitude and phase measurement unit, and a data processing unit, allowing for simultaneous calibration signal injection to all antenna elements without the need for precise alignment, using regression analysis to estimate and correct for phase and amplitude differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a distant calibration source is used, then calibration accuracy is improved, but the method becomes impractical in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an integral calibration network as an intermediary system that generates calibration signals within the phased array antenna itself. This calibration network includes signal sources and distribution channels that are built into the antenna structure, allowing calibration to be performed using a proximate source rather than requiring a distant external source. The calibration network acts as a mediator that provides the necessary calibration signals without needing external infrastructure.
2Ease of operation
If a proximate calibration source is used, then ease of operation is improved, but alignment complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the calibration signal generation and distribution functions directly into the phased array antenna structure. The calibration network is integrated with the antenna elements and signal channels, merging the calibration system with the operational antenna system. This integration eliminates the need for separate alignment procedures and external calibration equipment, reducing complexity while maintaining field recalibration capability.
3Measurement precision
If traditional calibration methods are used, then calibration accuracy is improved, but time consumption and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-calibrating system where the phased array antenna performs its own calibration using the integral calibration network. The system automatically generates calibration signals, distributes them through the signal channels, and measures the responses without requiring external calibration equipment or complex external alignment procedures. This self-service approach reduces both time and cost while maintaining calibration accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A phased antenna arrangement and a method for estimating the calibration ratio of an active phased antenna having a plurality of phased array antenna elements are described. The phased antenna arrangement includes a plurality of antenna elements, a plurality of receiving channels, an injection unit for injection of calibrating signals into the receiving channels, a point RF-source, located in a far field zone, a distance measurement unit, an amplitude and phase measurement unit and a data processing unit. The method comprises injecting an internal calibrating signal having a known amplitude and phase to each antenna element. An external calibration signal from a stationary RF-source is sequentially injected to all of the phased array antenna elements so that different phases of the external calibration signal arrive at each of the antenna elements. The differences in phases of the external calibration signal reaching the antenna elements are compensated so as compute an effective signal amplitude that would reach all of the antenna elements at zero phase difference. Calibration ratio is calculated as the ratio between the amplitude of the internal calibrating signal to the effective signal amplitude of the external calibration signal.