Signal Generator for Antenna Measurement System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vector network analyzers face challenges in measuring antenna characteristics due to significant electromagnetic wave signal attenuation in long microwave/RF cables, leading to ineffective characterization of antennas, especially when the analyzer and antenna are far apart.
Innovation Solution
A measurement system comprising a vector network analyzer, first and second signal generators, and expansion modules that generate and mix local oscillation signals with electromagnetic waves to reduce signal attenuation, allowing for accurate characterization of antennas regardless of the analyzer's manufacturer, using Ethernet channels and additional hardware signal lines for control and frequency adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the distance between the VNA and antenna is increased, then the measurement coverage is improved, but signal attenuation in cables increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the measurement function into two separate modules: a VNA for signal generation and analysis, and a signal generator for signal transmission and reception. This segmentation allows the VNA to remain in a fixed location while the signal generator can be positioned closer to the antenna, reducing cable length and signal attenuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The signal generator acts as an intermediary device between the VNA and the antenna. It receives control signals from the VNA, generates the appropriate RF signals, transmits them to the antenna, and receives reflected signals, thereby enabling measurements without requiring long direct cable connections between the VNA and antenna.
2Ease of operation
If conventional VNA measurement methods are used, then measurement simplicity is maintained, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to signal attenuation
Solution Approach 1:
The signal generator continuously monitors the RF signals transmitted to and received from the antenna, and provides feedback to the VNA. This feedback mechanism enables accurate measurement of antenna characteristics by compensating for signal attenuation and providing real-time data on signal quality and integrity.
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
The system enables low-cost, effective analysis of antenna characteristics by minimizing signal attenuation and ensuring compatibility with various vector network analyzers, thereby improving measurement accuracy and usability across different equipment configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a first expansion module for transmitting a first electromagnetic wave signal to a first antenna under control of the analyzer, a second expansion module for receiving a second electromagnetic wave signal through a second antenna
Data Source
AI summary
A measurement system according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: an analyzer; a first expansion module for transmitting a first electromagnetic wave signal to a first antenna under control of the analyzer; a second expansion module for receiving a second electromagnetic wave signal through a second antenna; a first signal generator for generating a first local oscillation signal under control of the analyzer, and detecting a reference characteristic of the first electromagnetic wave signal and a first test characteristic of the first antenna by using the first local oscillation signal; and a second signal generator for generating a second local oscillation signal under control of the analyzer, and detecting a second test characteristic of the second antenna by using the second local oscillation signal, wherein the first signal generator comprises a controller for converting instructions transmitted from the analyzer into internal instructions, and a local oscillation signal generator for generating the first local oscillation signal according to the internal instructions.