Phased Array Node Layout for Lower Count and Interference Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phased array antennas face challenges in reducing cost and complexity while maintaining performance, particularly due to high node counts required for broadband operations and interference rejection, which are exacerbated by the need for dense node spacing and frequency-dependent aperture adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and design approach that optimizes node placement in phased arrays by determining initial and final node locations based on constraints such as antenna shape, frequency range, and interference thresholds, using non-linear spacing to minimize node count while maintaining beam width and interference rejection performance across the frequency range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If nodes are placed at fixed separation with node spacings set at the highest frequency, then interference rejection is improved, but node count increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing different node spacing strategies in different regions of the array. The non-linear spacing section has varying node densities optimized for specific frequency ranges, while other sections use different spacing patterns. This allows interference rejection to be optimized locally without requiring dense spacing across the entire array, thereby reducing the total node count while maintaining performance.
2Quantity of substance
If denser nodes are inserted in the interior of each subarray, then node count is reduced somewhat, but aperture changes over the frequencies of each subarray
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by designing the array structure to adaptively adjust its effective aperture based on the operating frequency. The non-linear spacing section allows the aperture to be optimized for different frequency ranges, with the system dynamically selecting or reconfiguring which nodes are active for specific frequency bands. This maintains aperture stability for each subarray's frequency range while still reducing overall node count.
3Device complexity
If non-linear spacing is used to minimize node count, then cost and complexity are reduced, but maintaining beam width and interference rejection thresholds becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying the node spacing parameters in the non-linear spacing section to optimize performance. Specific spacing patterns and node positions are calculated to maintain beam width and interference rejection thresholds while minimizing node count. The design incorporates optimization algorithms that adjust spacing parameters to meet performance criteria, balancing complexity reduction with precision maintenance.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method includes receiving a set of constraints for an antenna having nodes of a phased array for receiving and/or transmitting a radiation signal, including a shape and size of the antenna, a frequency range for the radiation signal, and a view sector. The method includes receiving a set of thresholds including a threshold for a beam width of a central beam of the radiation signal and a threshold for interference associated with radiation outside of the central beam of the radiation signal. The method includes determining a first set of locations of the nodes based on the set of constraints and thresholds, determining an adjustment for the first set of locations in accordance with the set of thresholds, and determining a final set of locations of the nodes based on the adjustment to minimize a node count and achieving an optimized operation of the antenna.