Integral RF-Optical Phased Array Module for Multi-Band UAV Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensing and communications systems typically operate in single bands, making them ineffective in environmental conditions such as dust storms for optical systems and vulnerable to jamming for RF systems, especially on platforms with weight and space restrictions like UAVs.
Innovation Solution
An integral RF-optical phased array module that integrates both RF and optical functions into a single aperture on a substrate, allowing for multi-band functionality without increasing the size or altering the footprint of the RF elements, using a substrate with RF elements and an optical function element that includes a beam manipulating mechanism and optical fiber for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate optical and RF functions are provided, then multi-band functionality is achieved, but weight and surface area increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate optical and RF sensing functions into a single integrated sensor unit that shares common components including the substrate, antenna structure, and signal processing circuitry. The optical sensor and RF antenna are co-located on the same substrate with shared mounting structures, eliminating the need for separate housings and support infrastructure for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensor unit provides multi-functional capability by incorporating both optical detection (through photodetector arrays) and RF sensing (through antenna elements) within a single device. This universal sensor can operate across multiple spectral bands and perform diverse sensing tasks including imaging, communication, and environmental monitoring without requiring separate specialized devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate optical and RF functions are provided, then multi-band functionality is achieved, but surface area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate optical and RF sensing functions into a single integrated sensor unit that shares common components including the substrate, antenna structure, and signal processing circuitry. The optical sensor and RF antenna are co-located on the same substrate with shared mounting structures, eliminating the need for separate housings and support infrastructure for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical stacking and three-dimensional integration to accommodate both optical and RF functional elements within a compact footprint. By arranging sensor elements, circuitry, and support structures in multiple layers and utilizing the Z-dimension for component placement and signal routing, the design achieves high functional density without proportionally increasing the planar surface area occupied by the sensor array.
3Measurement precision
If optical function is used, then sensing capability is improved, but effectiveness decreases in dust storms
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated sensor unit provides multi-functional capability by incorporating both optical detection (through photodetector arrays) and RF sensing (through antenna elements) within a single device. This universal sensor can operate across multiple spectral bands and perform diverse sensing tasks including imaging, communication, and environmental monitoring without requiring separate specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects between optical and RF sensing modes based on environmental conditions. When dust storms or other atmospheric interference are detected, the system automatically switches from optical detection to RF sensing to maintain reliable operation. This dynamic adaptability ensures continuous sensing capability across varying environmental conditions by leveraging the complementary strengths of different sensing modalities.
4Productivity
If RF function is used, then communications capability is improved, but vulnerability to jamming increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated sensor unit provides multi-functional capability by incorporating both optical detection (through photodetector arrays) and RF sensing (through antenna elements) within a single device. This universal sensor can operate across multiple spectral bands and perform diverse sensing tasks including imaging, communication, and environmental monitoring without requiring separate specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects between optical and RF sensing modes based on environmental conditions. When dust storms or other atmospheric interference are detected, the system automatically switches from optical detection to RF sensing to maintain reliable operation. This dynamic adaptability ensures continuous sensing capability across varying environmental conditions by leveraging the complementary strengths of different sensing modalities.
Data Source
AI summary
An integral phased array module may include a substrate and a radio frequency (RF) element provided in relation to the substrate. The RF element being configured to at least one of transmit and receive RF signals. The RF element includes a footprint of a particular size and shape with respect to the substrate and the substrate is sized to accommodate the footprint of the RF element. The integral phased array module may also include an optical function element configured to perform an optical function. The optical function element is located relative to the RF element on the substrate for integrating multi-band functionality into a single aperture.