Polyhedral Drone Antenna Array for Simultaneous Radio Wave Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional radio wave measurement systems using drones require time-consuming rotation to maximize sensitivity, increasing measurement time and potentially introducing errors due to directivity of antennas.
Innovation Solution
A radio wave environment measurement device employing a multi-copter type unmanned flight vehicle equipped with a polyhedron having antennas on multiple surfaces, allowing simultaneous detection of radio wave intensities in various directions without rotation, and attached to the airframe with a gap equivalent to one or more wavelengths to minimize interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the drone rotates to maximize antenna sensitivity, then measurement accuracy is improved, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is segmented into multiple directional antennas arranged on different surfaces of the polyhedron. Each antenna faces a specific direction, allowing simultaneous measurement of radio waves from multiple directions without requiring rotation of the entire drone.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement capability is extended from a single direction to three-dimensional space by placing antennas on multiple surfaces of the polyhedral structure. This spatial arrangement allows the system to capture radio waves from all directions simultaneously, eliminating the need for rotational movement.
2Device complexity
If a single-direction antenna is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement reliability decreases due to directivity limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The polyhedral antenna structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides directional sensitivity in multiple directions, enables three-dimensional radio wave environment mapping, and eliminates the need for rotational mechanisms. Each surface of the polyhedron contributes to a specific measurement function.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna system is divided into multiple directional elements positioned on different surfaces of the polyhedron. This segmentation allows each antenna to specialize in receiving signals from its specific direction while collectively providing comprehensive coverage of the radio wave environment.
3Device complexity
If the polyhedron is attached directly to the airframe, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision decreases due to interference
Solution Approach 1:
The polyhedron is extracted from direct contact with the airframe by introducing a gap between them. This separation removes the source of interference (the conductive airframe) from the antenna's operational environment, allowing for more accurate radio wave measurements without complicating the mounting structure.
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
Significantly reduces measurement time by eliminating the need for drone rotation and minimizes measurement errors by reducing directivity and interference, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of radio wave measurement.
Implementation Method 1
a reception antenna that receives a radio wave coming from the base station
Implementation Method 2
a power measurement unit that measures power of the received radio wave
Data Source
AI summary
A radio wave environment measurement device includes: a multi-copter type unmanned flight vehicle configured to move in midair; a polyhedron attached to an airframe of the multi-copter type unmanned flight vehicle, the polyhedron having a plurality of surfaces; and an antenna provided on each of the plurality of surfaces of the polyhedron.


