Reversible Reflector Antenna for Dual Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current satellite antennas lack flexibility in geographical coverage and frequency bands, leading to inefficiencies such as mass, size, and cost issues, as well as significant ohmic losses and complexity in achieving dual coverage and frequency flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A reflector antenna with a reversible reflector and three motors providing kinematic flexibility, allowing for optimal RF performance on multiple coverages and frequency planes using a single reflector with interchangeable reflective surfaces and multiple sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate antennas are used to cover the same geographical area, then coverage flexibility is improved, but mass and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate antenna systems into a single integrated reflector structure with two deployable surfaces. The common support structure and shared deployment mechanism merge previously separate components, reducing overall mass while maintaining the capability to provide two distinct coverage areas through selective deployment of the first or second reflective surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The single reflector assembly serves multiple functions by incorporating two deployable reflective surfaces that can be independently positioned. The same physical structure can provide coverage for two different geographical areas or frequency bands, eliminating the need for separate dedicated antennas for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two sources are placed side by side in front of an oversized reflector, then frequency flexibility is improved, but directivity losses increase due to defocusing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic deployment mechanism that allows the reflector surfaces to be positioned optimally for each source. When source 1 is active, the first reflective surface is deployed; when source 2 is active, the second reflective surface is deployed. This dynamic reconfiguration ensures each source is properly focused by its corresponding surface, eliminating defocusing losses while maintaining frequency flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflector is segmented into two distinct deployable surfaces, each optimized for a specific source and frequency range. This segmentation allows each surface to be independently positioned and focused on its corresponding source, preventing the defocusing problems that would occur with a single oversized static reflector trying to serve both sources simultaneously.
3Device complexity
If a single source with complex electrical architecture is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ohmic losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electrical architecture with a mechanical solution. Instead of using a single source with complex dual radiofrequency chains and electrical switching networks, the system uses two independent sources with a mechanically deployable reflector system. The mechanical deployment of the appropriate reflective surface acts as a physical switch, eliminating the need for complex electrical signal routing and reducing ohmic losses associated with electrical switches and connectors.
4Adaptability or versatility
If two distinct antennas with deployable reflectors are used, then coverage flexibility is improved, but device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate antenna deployment systems into a single integrated mechanism. The common support structure and shared deployment mechanism control both reflective surfaces, reducing the overall complexity compared to two independent deployable reflector systems. The surfaces can be independently deployed or stowed, providing coverage flexibility with a unified control system.
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
Enables flexible geographical coverage and frequency operation without aberrations or losses due to defocusing, reducing complexity and production costs while maintaining performance.
Implementation Method 1
The antennas placed on board satellites typically comprise a reflector, geometrically formed, illuminated by a single source to cover a coverage area pointed at the Earth.
Data Source
Figure 1a~2a
Figure 2b~3a
Figure 3b
AI summary
The antenna has a reversible reflector (10) with two separate reflecting surfaces (R1, R2) shaped geometrically to respectively cover different geographical zones. Two independent radiofrequency signal sources (S1, S2) are arranged in a fixed configuration and connected to separate radio-frequency supply chains (2, 3) defining different and predefined operating frequency planes (F1, F2). The reflector occupies two deployment positions in which focal points of the surfaces are located at a phase center (5) and another phase center of the sources by two motors (M1, M2), respectively.