Phased Array Antenna With Mixed Beam Patterns for Longer Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phased array antenna systems waste significant power in non-remote fields due to isotropic elements, limiting the maximum range (Rmax) of the antenna without increasing the number of radiating elements or power per element.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a combination of isotropic and non-isotropic radiating elements, where isotropic elements cover non-remote fields and non-isotropic elements, with focused beams, cover remote fields, to redirect excess power for increased range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If isotropic radiating elements are used to cover non-remote fields, then the field of view is improved, but the maximum range (Rmax) deteriorates due to power waste in non-remote fields
Solution Approach 1:
The phased array antenna is divided into two distinct segments: isotropic radiating elements for non-remote field coverage and non-isotropic radiating elements for remote field coverage. This segmentation allows each segment to be optimized for its specific function, with the non-isotropic elements concentrating power in specific directions to extend Rmax while isotropic elements maintain broad coverage for near-field targets
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the antenna system are assigned different radiating characteristics. The non-isotropic radiating elements have directional radiation patterns optimized for remote field detection, while isotropic elements provide omnidirectional coverage for non-remote fields. This local differentiation of quality allows the system to simultaneously achieve broad field of view and extended maximum range
2Use of energy by moving object
If the number of radiating elements is increased to extend maximum range, then the maximum range (Rmax) is improved, but the device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation pattern parameter is changed from isotropic to non-isotropic for specific elements. By modifying the radiation characteristics (directionality) rather than simply adding more elements, the system achieves extended Rmax through more efficient power utilization. The non-isotropic elements concentrate energy in specific directions, effectively increasing range without proportionally increasing element count or system complexity
3Use of energy by moving object
If power per element is increased to extend maximum range, then the maximum range (Rmax) is improved, but the energy consumption deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Power is distributed non-uniformly across the radiating elements based on local requirements. Non-isotropic elements directed at remote fields receive higher power allocation to extend Rmax, while isotropic elements for non-remote fields operate at lower power levels. This localized power distribution optimizes energy consumption by concentrating power where it provides maximum range benefit rather than uniformly increasing power across all elements
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 configuration increases the maximum range (Rmax) by up to 78% while maintaining the same number of elements and power levels, effectively utilizing excess power for longer-range detection.
Implementation Method 1
Phased Array antennas for electromagnetic (radar and communication) and acoustic (sonar and ultrasound) systems use multiple radiating elements, each radiating electromagnetic waves or acoustic waves respectively. The waves radiating from each element of the array on the face of an antenna have their phase and the amplitude separately controlled so that one or more beams of in-phase radiated waves is projected in a narrow pattern in a specific direction.
Implementation Method 2
non-isotropic radiating elements, with focused beams, cover remote fields, to redirect excess power for increased range
Data Source
AI summary
A phased array antenna system comprising a plurality of isotropic radiating elements and/or omnidirectional receiving elements addressing close in fields and a plurality of non-isotropic radiating elements and/or non-omnidirectional receiving elements addressing remote fields with the combined elements used to extend the maximum range of the antenna system without increasing the number of element nor the output power of the antenna. The non-isotropic radiating elements and/or the non-omnidirectional receiving elements can be formed by adding focusing structures such as lenses or reflective structures in the radiating path of isotropic radiating elements and/or omnidirectional receiving elements. Antennas with combined isotropic radiating and non-isotropic radiating elements can be utilized for electromagnetic phased array radar, communication and imaging systems and for acoustic phased array sonar or ultrasound systems.