Rotating Device Under Test for Over-the-Air Antenna Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current test systems for over-the-air communication are limited in their ability to efficiently and flexibly test wireless communication links from multiple angular positions, requiring a large number of fixed antennas and being inflexible in simulating real-world scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A test system that allows for the movement and rotation of the device under test relative to a minimal number of test antennas, enabling flexible testing of communication links by changing the spatial relationship between the device under test and the test antenna, while maintaining the communication link, and utilizing a visualization system to monitor and control the antenna positions and beamforming capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple test antennas are arranged in the test chamber to test wireless communication from multiple angles, then the testing coverage and angular positions are improved, but the device complexity and testing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the device under test movable rather than fixed. The DUT is mounted on a positioning structure that enables it to move to different spatial positions and orientations within the test chamber. This dynamic positioning allows a single test antenna to test the DUT from multiple angular positions by changing the DUT's position relative to the antenna, thereby achieving multi-angle testing coverage without requiring multiple fixed antennas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the universality principle by designing a single test antenna that can serve multiple testing functions. By enabling the DUT to move to different positions and orientations, one test antenna becomes capable of testing the wireless communication from multiple angular positions and scenarios, making the antenna system universal rather than requiring dedicated antennas for each testing angle.
2Measurement precision
If multiple test antennas are strategically positioned to receive and transmit signals from different directions, then the measurement accuracy from multiple angles is improved, but the loss of time for setup and the testing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for time-consuming setup of multiple antennas by using a dynamic positioning structure for the DUT. The positioning structure can quickly move the DUT to different spatial positions and orientations under automated control, significantly reducing the setup time compared to manually positioning multiple antennas. The motorized or automated positioning system enables rapid reconfiguration of the testing geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a computational model or digital representation of the test chamber geometry and antenna positions to plan and simulate test configurations before actual execution. This allows for optimization of testing sequences and positioning paths, reducing the actual setup time required while maintaining measurement accuracy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the device under test is moved or rotated to change spatial relationship with the test antenna, then the adaptability and flexibility of testing are improved, but the control complexity and monitoring difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by equipping the positioning structure with sensors and control systems that continuously monitor the DUT's position and orientation. The system receives feedback about the actual position of the DUT and automatically adjusts the positioning to achieve the desired spatial relationship with the test antenna. This closed-loop control simplifies the operation for the user while maintaining precise control over the testing geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system that mediates between the user's testing requirements and the physical positioning of the DUT. The control system translates high-level testing parameters (such as desired angle or position) into specific motor commands for the positioning structure, thereby simplifying the user interface while managing the underlying control complexity.
4Device complexity
If a minimal number of test antennas is used with movement of the device under test, then the device complexity and cost are reduced, but the measurement precision and testing reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent compensates for using a single test antenna by dynamically positioning the DUT to multiple precise spatial locations and orientations. The positioning structure enables the DUT to be placed at accurately controlled positions relative to the antenna, ensuring that measurements are taken from well-defined geometric configurations. This dynamic approach maintains measurement precision equivalent to having multiple fixed antennas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of multiple fixed antennas with a single antenna combined with a motorized positioning system for the DUT. The automated positioning mechanism, driven by motors or other actuation systems, provides precise and repeatable positioning that maintains measurement accuracy while reducing the number of physical antennas required.
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 efficient and versatile testing of over-the-air communication links by simulating various spatial relationships, reducing testing costs and time, and enhancing the reliability of test results through flexible movement and visualization of antenna positions and properties.
Implementation Method 1
a test antenna (30) which is adapted to emit a radio frequency signal to the device under test (100) and/or receive a radio frequency signal from the device under test (100)
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and Methods for testing an over-the-air communication of a device under test. The device under test is moved or rotated by a moving platform while a communication link between the device under test and a test antenna is maintained. In this way, the communication capabilities of a communication system in the device under test can be tested while the spatial relationship between the device under test and a test antenna is changed. The spatial position and the properties of the related antennas are monitored and a visual representation is provided by visualization device, in particular by a virtual or augmented reality platform for controlling the test.