Phased Array Probe Layer Calibration for Millimeter-Wave Antennas
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Phased array antenna calibration in millimeter wave applications beyond 70 GHz is particularly challenging due to manufacturing variances, temperature, and environmental effects, which affect phase and amplitude control.
Innovation Solution
A calibration system that includes a calibration probe layer with a one-to-one correspondence to the antenna-under-test elements, using an RF probe connected via a feed network to transmit and receive RF signals for precise calibration of each antenna element, including phase and amplitude adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional near-field and far-field calibration methods are used, then calibration can be performed for lower frequency bands, but calibration becomes particularly challenging and ineffective for millimeter wave applications beyond 70 GHz
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary calibration probe layer positioned between the antenna under test and the measurement system. This probe layer acts as a mediator to facilitate accurate calibration at millimeter wave frequencies by providing a known reference structure that accounts for near-field effects and manufacturing variances, enabling effective calibration where conventional direct measurement methods fail
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration probe layer is designed as a copy or replica of the antenna under test's element structure, positioned in a known configuration. By measuring the response of this known copy structure, the system can determine calibration parameters that are then applied to the actual antenna elements, enabling accurate characterization without direct measurement of the operating antenna
2Manufacturing precision
If manufacturing variances and environmental effects are not compensated, then the system is simpler, but phase and amplitude control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calibration measurements using the probe layer before actual operation. By pre-characterizing the phase and amplitude responses of each element under controlled conditions and storing these calibration parameters, the system compensates for manufacturing variances and environmental effects in advance, enabling precise control during operation without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The calibration system uses feedback from measurements taken with the probe layer to determine correction parameters for each antenna element. These feedback-derived parameters are then applied to adjust phase shifters and amplifiers, compensating for manufacturing tolerances and environmental variations, thereby achieving precise phase and amplitude control despite initial imperfections
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
The system effectively calibrates each individual element of the phased array antenna, improving the precision of phase and amplitude control, thereby enhancing the accuracy of radiation patterns and beam steering in millimeter wave applications.
Implementation Method 1
The RF probe can transmit/receive an RF signal to/from all the AUT elements
Data Source
AI summary
Examples disclosed herein relate to a phased array antenna calibration system. The system includes a radio frequency (RF) probe configured to transmit and receive an RF signal, a probe layer coupled to the RF probe via a transmission line layer and configured to transmit or receive the RF signal with the RF probe. In some aspects, the probe layer comprising a plurality of probe elements arranged in an array that corresponds to an arrangement of radiating elements in an antenna-under-test (AUT). The system also includes a foam layer coupled to the probe layer and configured to isolate the AUT from the probe layer.