Phased Array Antenna Orientation Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phased array antennas in cellular communications often have inaccurate orientation during installation, leading to unreliable RF-Planning and network simulations due to practical complications during mounting on cell towers.
Innovation Solution
A method to accurately determine the orientation of a phased array antenna using successive beamforming, involving positioning a communication device, generating and measuring beam patterns, and comparing received signal vectors to calculate the correct orientation using a pattern matching algorithm like least squares technique.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If phased array antennas are installed on cell towers, then cellular communication coverage is achieved, but orientation accuracy deteriorates due to practical installation complications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary beamforming measurements and orientation calculations before finalizing the RF-Planning configuration. By sequentially generating beam patterns and measuring received signal parameters in advance, the system determines the actual orientation of the phased array antenna, allowing RF-Planning tools to use accurate orientation data for reliable simulation results.
2Measurement precision
If external devices are used to indicate correct orientation, then measurement accuracy improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the phased array antenna system to self-determine its own orientation by performing beamforming measurements and comparing received signal parameters against calculated vectors. The system uses its existing beamforming capability and signal measurement functions to autonomously calculate orientation, eliminating the need for external orientation-indicating devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical external orientation-indicating devices with an electronic/software-based solution. By using successive beamforming and pattern matching algorithms, the system electronically determines orientation through signal processing rather than mechanical measurement tools, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy.
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 method ensures accurate determination of the phased array's orientation, providing reliable simulation results and reducing the need for external, expensive devices by using a communication device to measure and compute the correct angle of departure or arrival.
Implementation Method 1
with the phased array antenna, sequentially generating each beam pattern of a library of multiple beam patterns
Implementation Method 2
for each of the sequentially generated beam patterns from the library of multiple beam patterns, and by using either the phased array antenna or the communication device, measuring a received signal parameter
Data Source
AI summary
A method of determining an orientation of a phased array antenna that involves positioning a communication device in front of the phased array antenna; with the phased array antenna, sequentially generating each beam pattern of a library of multiple beam patterns; for each of the sequentially generated beam patterns from the library of multiple beam patterns, measuring a received signal parameter, wherein the received signal parameters for the library of multiple transmit beam patterns form a measured received signal vector for the phased array antenna; and determining the orientation of the phased array antenna by comparing the measured received signal vector for the phased array antenna to each of a plurality of calculated received signal vectors.