RF Antenna Array Testing via Segmented Microwave Filter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Testing radio-frequency (RF) antenna elements in large arrays is challenging due to the difficulty in identifying defective elements when the measured response is an average of all elements, making it hard to detect issues with a small percentage of deficient elements.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using a frame with a filter to isolate subsets of RF antenna elements, allowing for individual testing by transmitting and receiving microwave energy, and using a controller and analyzer to provide stimuli and measure characteristics, enabling element-by-element testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If all RF antenna elements are tested together as a group, then the testing process is simple and fast, but the measurement response is an average of all elements making it impossible to identify defective elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the array of RF antenna elements into multiple subsets using a physical filter with openings. Each opening exposes only a specific subset of elements to the microwave energy, allowing individual testing of each subset. This segmentation enables identification of defective elements while maintaining efficient batch testing procedures.
2Reliability
If a small number of RF antenna elements are deficient, then the overall antenna performance may still be acceptable, but the defective elements cannot be detected when testing the entire array
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the antenna array into subsets using the filter mechanism, the patent enables detection of defective elements even when they represent a small percentage of the total array. Each subset can be independently evaluated to identify local defects that would be masked in a full-array measurement.
3Measurement precision
If element-by-element testing is performed without segmentation, then defective elements can be identified, but the testing process becomes extremely time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent groups elements into subsets that can be tested in batches rather than individually. The filter with multiple openings allows each subset to be tested as a unit, significantly reducing the number of measurements required compared to strict element-by-element testing, while still enabling identification of which specific elements are defective within each subset.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple openings in the filter to test multiple subsets simultaneously or in rapid sequence. This merging of testing capabilities maintains high productivity by processing groups of elements together, while the segmented nature of the openings preserves the ability to identify specific defective 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
Enables precise identification and correction of defects in RF antenna elements, improving the efficiency of antenna testing and reducing assembly costs by allowing for in-process inspection and rejection of defective components.
Implementation Method 1
a first antenna to transmit microwave energy to subsets of RF antenna elements of the array and to receive reflected microwave energy from the subsets of RF antenna elements
Implementation Method 2
a first antenna to transmit microwave energy to subsets of RF antenna elements of the array and to receive reflected microwave energy from the subsets of RF antenna elements
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for testing radio-frequency antenna elements are disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises: a frame having a platform to support an array of radio-frequency (RF) antenna elements of a flat panel antenna having antenna elements; a first antenna to transmit microwave energy to subsets of RF antenna elements of the segment and to receive reflected microwave energy from the subsets of RF antenna elements; a filter between the segment and the first antenna, the filter comprising an opening positioned over each of the subsets of RF antenna elements at different times to expose said each of the subsets of RF antenna elements to microwave energy transmitted by the first antenna; a second antenna to receive microwave energy transmitted though the subsets of RF antenna elements at the different times; a controller coupled to the subsets of RF antenna elements and to provide at least one stimulus or condition to the subsets of RF antenna elements; and an analyzer to provide stimulus to the subsets of RF antenna elements and to measure a characteristic of the array using one or both of the first antenna and second antenna.