Predictive Directional Antenna Targeting for Mobile Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Communication systems with directional antennas face challenges in maintaining line-of-sight with mobile communication nodes, especially when these nodes are in motion or in areas with obstructions, leading to signal loss and difficulty in reestablishing communication.
Innovation Solution
A predictive directional antenna targeting method that uses state information from mobile communication nodes, including position and trajectory, to estimate future positions and reposition the antenna to maintain line-of-sight, accounting for terrain maps and mission parameters to optimize path probabilities and reestablish communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tracking antenna systems continuously transmit position information to reposition antennas, then communication reliability is improved, but system complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by predicting the future position of the mobile communication node based on its current trajectory and state information. The directional antenna is proactively repositioned to the predicted location before the node actually reaches it, preventing communication loss rather than reacting to it. This eliminates the need for continuous position transmission and reactive tracking adjustments.
2Reliability
If directional antennas require clear line of sight for uninterrupted communication, then signal quality is improved, but adaptability to obstructed areas deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses terrain maps and the mobile node's planned trajectory to predict future positions that may be obscured by terrain features. By proactively repositioning the directional antenna before the node enters an obstructed area, the system maintains line-of-sight communication through the obstruction rather than losing signal when the node enters the obstructed zone.
3Measurement precision
If tracking information is lost when communication is interrupted, then measurement precision is maintained, but reestablishing communication becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring communication status and comparing it with predicted positions. When communication is lost, the system uses the stored trajectory and state information to determine the node's likely position, then actively repositions the antenna to reestablish line-of-sight. This feedback loop enables automatic recovery without requiring the mobile node to transmit additional position information.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of predictive targeting of a directional antenna is provided. The method includes receiving a plurality of state information at a directional antenna control system from a mobile communication node, where the state information includes a position and a trajectory of the mobile communication node. The directional antenna control system logs the state information as a last known position and a last known trajectory of the mobile communication node. An estimated future position of the mobile communication node is determined based on the last known position, the last known trajectory, and a time period. Based on a loss of communication between the directional antenna and the mobile communication node, the directional antenna control system positions the directional antenna to establish a line-of-sight between the directional antenna and the estimated future position of the mobile communication node.