Quiet Zone Measurement Correction for Antenna Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current measurement methods for antenna testing in compact ranges suffer from limited accuracy and efficiency due to the inability to effectively enlarge the quiet zone, leading to increased costs and reduced measurement efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A measurement method and system that determine correction factors based on the amplitude and phase distribution of the quiet zone, allowing for centering and radial movement of the device under test, and applying these corrections to increase the effective size of the quiet zone, thereby enhancing accuracy and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the quiet zone size is increased to improve measurement accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but the physical space and cost requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by measuring and correcting amplitude and phase distributions across the quiet zone. Instead of physically enlarging the quiet zone, the method changes the parameters (amplitude and phase) of the electromagnetic field through correction factors, effectively expanding the usable measurement area while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces correction factors as an intermediary element between the actual quiet zone and the measurement process. These correction factors compensate for field non-uniformities and effectively extend the quiet zone's usable area without requiring physical expansion of the measurement facility.
2Productivity
If correction factors are applied to increase effective quiet zone size, then measurement efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating correction factors based on measured amplitude and phase distributions before actual antenna measurements. This preliminary characterization of the quiet zone enables faster, more efficient measurements without requiring complex real-time corrections during the measurement process.
Data Source
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AI summary
A measurement method for increasing the effective size of a quiet zone is provided. The measurement method comprises the step of in the case that an amplitude and/or a phase distribution of the quiet zone is known, determining a set of correction factors on the basis of said amplitude and/or phase distribution of the quiet zone. Additionally or alternatively in the case that the amplitude and/or phase distribution of the quiet zone and an antenna radiating aperture location on a device under test (11) are known, the device under test (11) is centered in the middle of the quiet zone and the device under test (11) is moved radially in at least one axis.