Software-Defined Phased Array Feed for Multi-Target Beam Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional satellite communication systems are limited by traditional antennas that can only transmit and receive single-band signals, restricting them to communicate with one flight object at a time and facing challenges in stabilizing antennas on moving objects like ships and aircraft due to mechanical pointing requirements.
Innovation Solution
A digitally beamformed phased array feed system utilizing multi-band software defined antenna array tiles, which allows for simultaneous communication with multiple flight objects across various bandwidths by digitally processing antenna element data to steer the antenna beam, incorporating tightly coupled dipole array elements, frequency converters, and digital beamformers to manage multiple radio frequencies and polarization components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional single-band antennas are used, then the antenna can be designed for a specific frequency, but it can only communicate with one flight object at a time and cannot operate across multiple bandwidths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-band phased array antenna system where a single antenna array can operate across multiple frequency bands (e.g., C-band, X-band, Ku-band) by using digital beamforming to dynamically configure the radiation pattern. The system uses multiple frequency converters and digital signal processors to handle different bands, allowing one antenna structure to perform multiple communication functions simultaneously with different flight objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs digital beamforming with programmable phase shifters and amplitude controllers that can dynamically adjust the beam direction, width, and frequency response in real-time. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the antenna to adapt its characteristics for different frequency bands and target locations without physical movement or mechanical adjustment.
2Productivity
If traditional mechanical beam steering is used, then the antenna can be aimed at a specific target, but it can only track one flight object at a time and requires mechanical movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical beam steering with electronic digital beamforming. Instead of physically moving the antenna to track multiple targets, the system uses digital signal processing to create and steer multiple independent beams simultaneously. Each beam can be independently directed at different flight objects, enabling multi-target tracking without mechanical movement of the antenna structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna array is divided into multiple independently controllable element groups, each capable of forming its own beam. The digital beamformer processes signals from individual elements or sub-arrays separately, allowing simultaneous creation of multiple beams with different directions and characteristics. This segmentation enables parallel tracking of multiple flight objects.
3Ease of operation
If the antenna is fixed on moving objects like ships and aircraft, then portability is achieved, but stabilizing the reflector to maintain fixed beam pointing becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for mechanical stabilization systems by using digital beamforming with adaptive signal processing. The system can electronically compensate for platform motion by dynamically adjusting beam parameters based on motion sensors or feedback from tracking data. This software-based approach maintains beam pointing accuracy without requiring heavy mechanical stabilization equipment on moving platforms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where tracking data and platform motion information are continuously monitored and used to adjust beamforming parameters in real-time. This closed-loop control allows the antenna to maintain accurate pointing despite vibrations, accelerations, and position changes associated with moving platforms like ships and aircraft.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for a digital beamformed phased array feed. The system may include a radome configured to allow electromagnetic waves to propagate; a multi-band software defined antenna array tile; a power and clock management subsystem configured to manage power and time of operation; a thermal management subsystem configured to dissipate heat generated by the multi-band software defined antenna array tile; and an enclosure assembly. The multi-band software defined antenna array tile may include a plurality of coupled dipole array antenna elements; a plurality of frequency converters; and a plurality of digital beamformers.