Satellite Communication Emulator Using Beam Steering for Phase Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for testing satellite communication devices are hindered by mechanical complexities, low precision, and lengthy installation/calibration processes, particularly in simulating satellite communication scenarios with low-earth satellite systems.
Innovation Solution
An emulator system comprising a controller, a jig, and one or more antenna arrays that enable beams to simulate satellite communication conditions, allowing for phase difference calculations and testing results generation, while adjusting signal strength and angle of incidence to mimic satellite movements and positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mechanical methods are used to simulate satellite movement and positioning, then the system can physically represent satellite positions, but the device complexity and installation/calibration time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical systems with electromagnetic systems. Instead of using physical mechanical structures to simulate satellite positions and movements, the invention uses antenna arrays to generate electromagnetic beams that simulate satellite signal transmissions. The controller electronically adjusts beam directions and positions without any mechanical moving parts, thereby eliminating mechanical complexity while maintaining testing accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an electromagnetic copy of satellite communication scenarios. Rather than physically replicating satellite positions with mechanical structures, the system uses antenna arrays to generate electromagnetic fields that replicate satellite signal characteristics. This electromagnetic copying approach achieves accurate satellite position simulation without the complexity of mechanical replication systems.
2Measurement precision
If conventional mechanical systems are used for satellite position simulation, then physical satellite positions can be represented, but the installation and calibration processes become lengthy and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mechanical installation and calibration processes by replacing them with electronic configuration. The antenna arrays and controller system can be electronically programmed to simulate different satellite positions and movements without any physical assembly or mechanical calibration, dramatically reducing setup time while maintaining high measurement precision through digital control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables pre-programming of satellite positions and movement trajectories in the controller. Instead of requiring time-consuming on-site mechanical calibration, the system can be pre-configured with satellite orbital parameters and positions, allowing rapid deployment and immediate accurate simulation without lengthy installation and calibration processes.
3Measurement precision
If antenna arrays are used to simulate satellite communication, then testing precision improves, but the system complexity increases due to multiple antenna units and beam control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the antenna array system to perform multiple functions through a single integrated structure. The same antenna units are used for both transmitting test signals and receiving response signals, and the same controller handles beam formation, steering, and phase difference calculation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the advanced capabilities provided.
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
This solution provides a precise and efficient method for testing satellite communication devices by simulating various satellite positions and movements, improving testing accuracy and reducing setup complexities, thereby ensuring reliable communication capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
transmit a first signal to the device under test via the first beam, and receive a second signal corresponding to the first signal from the device under test
Data Source
AI summary
An emulator system and an emulating method for satellite communication are provided. The emulating method includes: providing a first antenna array, wherein the first antenna array includes a plurality of antenna units arranged along a first direction; mounting the device under test on a virtual plane by a jig; enabling a first beam by the first antenna array; steering the first beam to the device under test by a default angle of incidence; transmitting a first signal to the device under test via the first beam, and receiving a second signal corresponding to the first signal from the device under test; calculating a value of phase difference according to the second signal; determining whether the device under test passes a test according to the value of phase difference and a threshold to generate a testing result; and outputting the testing result.