Phased Array Signal Conditioning Module Layout for Wideband Beam Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phased array antennas face challenges in achieving increased bandwidth while maintaining a high ratio of main lobe power to side lobe power, and they often require reduced weight, size, manufacturing cost, and power requirements.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a phased array antenna system that includes a carrier with antenna elements and a signal conditioning module. The signal conditioning module is strategically positioned between the antenna elements and is electrically coupled to both the antenna elements and the carrier, utilizing a support structure with coupling elements and a ground plane for electromagnetic isolation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional phased array antenna configurations are used, then the antenna can transmit and receive signals in a preferred direction, but the bandwidth is limited and the ratio of main lobe power to side lobe power is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is divided into multiple antenna elements arranged in a specific geometric configuration (e.g., tetrahedral, rectangular array). Each element is independently controlled with its own signal conditioning module, allowing individual phase and amplitude adjustment. This segmentation enables precise beamforming control across broader frequency ranges while maintaining directional integrity through coordinated operation of discrete elements
Solution Approach 2:
The signal conditioning modules dynamically adjust phase and amplitude of signals for each antenna element in real-time based on feedback and control algorithms. This dynamic control allows the system to adapt to changing frequency conditions, maintaining optimal main lobe to side lobe ratios across expanded bandwidth by continuously optimizing signal parameters
2Device complexity
If conventional antenna designs are used, then the antenna structure is simple, but the weight, size, and power requirements are high
Solution Approach 1:
Signal conditioning modules are integrated within or alongside antenna elements in a nested configuration, where components are housed within the same structural envelope. This nesting approach consolidates multiple functions (radiation, signal conditioning, amplification) into overlapping spatial volumes, reducing overall antenna weight and size while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional components (antenna elements, signal conditioning circuits, amplifiers, and support structures) are merged into integrated assemblies. The coupling elements and support structures serve dual purposes: providing mechanical support while also serving as electrical interconnects, thereby reducing the number of separate components and overall system weight
3Volume of moving object
If conventional antenna designs are used, then the antenna structure is compact, but power requirements are high
Solution Approach 1:
Signal conditioning is applied locally at each antenna element rather than centrally, allowing independent optimization of power consumption for each element. Low-noise amplifiers and signal conditioning circuits are positioned immediately adjacent to each antenna element, enabling localized signal enhancement with minimal power requirements while maintaining compact overall system size
Solution Approach 2:
The signal conditioning modules dynamically adjust their operation based on signal strength and quality requirements, activating amplification and signal processing functions only when and where needed. This dynamic power management maintains compact antenna size while reducing overall power consumption by eliminating continuous full-power operation 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 enhances bandwidth, maintains high main lobe power, reduces weight and size, lowers manufacturing costs, and decreases power requirements, thereby improving the overall performance and efficiency of the phased array antenna system.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a support structure with coupling elements and a ground plane for electromagnetic isolation
Data Source
AI summary
A phased array antenna system includes a carrier, a first antenna element and a second antenna element coupled to a first side of the carrier, the second antenna element spaced apart from the first antenna element by a space; and a signal conditioning module including a support structure having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, one or more signal conditioning elements coupled to the first side of the support structure, and a plurality of coupling elements coupled to the second side of the support structure. The signal conditioning module is coupled to the first side of the carrier and disposed in the space on the first side of the carrier between the first antenna element and the second antenna element. At least one coupling element is electrically coupled to the carrier. The signal conditioning module is electrically coupled to the first antenna element.