Satellite Antenna Reflective Filter for Multi-Frequency Reception

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current satellite antenna systems face challenges in accurately and uniformly receiving multiple data signals at different frequencies due to manufacturing difficulties, leading to signal interference and quality issues, and the practicality of using multiple antennas is hindered by aesthetic concerns.

Innovation Solution

A single satellite antenna design incorporating first and second Low Noise Blocks (LNBs) with a reflective filtering means that allows data signals at one frequency range to pass through while deflecting signals at another frequency range to a second LNB, positioned optimally to prevent interference, using a parabolic dish and a flat or curved reflective filtering mechanism formed from multiple layers of sheet materials.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If a multi-band reflector antenna with multiple LNBs at different focuses is used to receive multiple frequency signals, then the quantity of data received is increased, but manufacturing accuracy is difficult to achieve uniformly and signal interference occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequantity of data receivedVSAvoidmanufacturing accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the frequency reception function by providing separate LNBs for different frequency bands (e.g., Ku-band and Ka-band) with dedicated focal points. Each LNB is optimized for specific frequency ranges, allowing independent positioning and manufacturing tolerance accumulation without mutual interference, thus resolving the contradiction between receiving multiple frequencies and maintaining manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a spatial dimension solution by utilizing multiple focal points along the optical axis of the parabolic antenna. Different LNBs are positioned at different distances from the reflector surface, creating a longitudinal arrangement that allows simultaneous reception of multiple frequency bands without requiring complex lateral positioning, thereby improving manufacturability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Quantity of substance

If a multi-band reflector antenna with multiple LNBs is used to receive multiple frequency signals, then the quantity of data received is increased, but signal interference between different frequencies occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequantity of data receivedVSAvoidsignal interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the signal reception paths by assigning different focal points for different frequency bands. Each LNB is positioned at its optimal focal distance, creating physically separated signal collection zones. This spatial segmentation prevents signal interference by ensuring that signals from different frequencies converge at distinct locations without overlapping or cross-contaminating each other's reception paths.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses the parabolic reflector surface itself as an intermediary that selectively directs different frequency bands to different focal points. The reflector geometry and positioning of LNBs create an intermediary spatial arrangement where frequency separation is achieved through the optical path differences, preventing direct signal interference between bands.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If two separate satellite antennas are provided for different frequency ranges, then signal quality is improved, but the mounting becomes impractical and affects external appearance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal qualityVSAvoidmounting practicality
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple frequency reception functions into a single antenna structure by utilizing the parabolic reflector's ability to focus different frequency bands at different points along its axis. Multiple LNBs are mounted on the same antenna structure at different focal distances, combining what would traditionally require separate antennas into one integrated system, thereby maintaining signal quality while improving mounting practicality and aesthetic appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the single parabolic antenna universal by enabling it to receive multiple frequency bands simultaneously through the multi-focal point configuration. The antenna structure serves multiple functions (receiving Ku-band, Ka-band, and potentially other frequency bands) through strategic placement of different LNBs, eliminating the need for multiple separate antennas while maintaining the signal quality benefits of frequency-specific reception.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 simultaneous reception of data signals at different frequency ranges without increasing antenna size and minimizes interference, ensuring high-quality signal processing and transmission with low error rates, allowing for seamless user access to services like television, radio, and internet.

Implementation Method 1

a reflective filtering means which allows data signals at a first frequency or in a first frequency range to pass therethrough to the first LNB and data signals at a second frequency or in a second frequency range to be deflected to the second LNB

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFrequency selective reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a multi-band reflector antenna which is provided with a main reflector defining a prime focus and a frequency selective surface sub-reflector defining an image focus

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectParabolic focusing: Focusing

Data Source

PatentUS8854271B2Data receiving apparatus
Publication Date: 2014.10.07 GLOBAL INVACOM LTD
  • US8854271B2 patent drawing
  • US8854271B2 patent drawing
  • US8854271B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This invention is directed toward a data signal receiving means including an antenna and a plurality of Low Noise Blocks (LNB's). A reflective filtering means is provided and located with respect to the LNBs and antenna such that data signals received at a first frequency or frequency range pass through the reflective filter means to a first LNB and data signals at second frequency or frequency range are deflected by the reflective filtering means and do not pass therethrough and pass to the second LNB. In this way a single antenna can be used to receive and process multiple data signals received at different frequencies or frequency ranges.