Phased Array Reference Ring for Low-Noise Phase Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phased array antenna systems face challenges in achieving synchronized phase references across multiple distributed receiver-exciter units, leading to phase ambiguities and increased noise, which affect the detection of return signals and require precise cable matching and calibration.
Innovation Solution
A reference signal distribution system using counter-rotating reference signals on a ring cable to synchronize analog regenerative frequency dividers, providing a common phase reference signal through a power splitter and distribution ring, eliminating the need for precise cable matching and reducing phase noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional reference signal distribution methods are used, then system complexity is reduced, but phase synchronization precision deteriorates due to phase ambiguities and cable matching requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The reference signal distribution system is segmented into multiple independent ring cables, each serving specific receiver-exciter units. This segmentation allows each ring to be independently calibrated and maintained, reducing overall system complexity while improving phase synchronization precision through localized reference signal distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates equipotential reference signal paths by using counter-rotating signals on ring cables that arrive at each receiver-exciter unit with identical phase. This equipotential approach eliminates phase ambiguities and cable matching requirements, achieving high phase synchronization precision without increasing system complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If precise cable matching and calibration are implemented, then phase synchronization precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The reference signal distribution system performs self-calibration through the counter-rotating signal mechanism. The system automatically establishes phase coherence without requiring external calibration equipment or procedures, eliminating the need for precise cable matching while simplifying manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of signal propagation by using counter-rotating signals on ring cables instead of traditional single-direction distribution. This parameter change transforms the system from one requiring precise cable matching to one that achieves phase synchronization through the inherent properties of counter-rotating signal paths.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If traditional reference signal distribution is used, then device complexity is low, but phase noise increases affecting signal detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reference signal distribution function with the data signal transmission by using the same ring cable infrastructure for both purposes. This merging reduces device complexity while the counter-rotating signal mechanism simultaneously suppresses phase noise through coherent combining at the receiver-exciter units.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback through the counter-rotating signal paths, where signals traveling in opposite directions around the ring provide automatic phase correction. This feedback mechanism reduces phase noise without requiring additional active components, maintaining low device complexity while improving signal detection quality.
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 approach ensures identical phase across the array face with low phase noise, improving signal detection and eliminating phase ambiguities without the complexity and expense of precise phase-matching and recalibration.
Implementation Method 1
a power splitter configured to create, from a frequency-divided reference signal, a counterclockwise divided reference signal and a clockwise divided reference signal
Implementation Method 2
the ring tap is configured to produce a phase synchronization signal based on the counterclockwise divided reference signal and the clockwise divided reference signal
Implementation Method 3
an analog regenerative frequency divider configured to produce a common phase reference signal based in part on the phase synchronization signal
Data Source
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AI summary
A reference signal distribution system is disclosed. The reference signal distribution system can include a power splitter to create, from a frequency-divided reference signal, a counterclockwise divided reference signal and a clockwise divided reference signal. The reference signal distribution system can include a distribution ring to provide the counterclockwise divided reference signal to a ring tap, and provide the clockwise divided reference signal to the ring tap. The reference signal distribution system can include a ring tap to produce a phase synchronization signal based the counterclockwise divided reference signal and the clockwise divided reference signal. The reference signal distribution system can include an analog regenerative frequency divider to produce a common phase reference signal based in part on the phase synchronization signal.