Surface Scattering Antenna Segments for Interference Rejection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current antenna systems face challenges in efficiently managing radiation patterns to distinguish between desired and undesired signal fields of view, particularly in scenarios where interference from unwanted signals is present, such as terrestrial or low-altitude sources.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a surface scattering antenna system with multiple segments, each comprising an electromagnetic waveguide structure and scattering elements with inter-element spacings less than the free-space wavelength, allows for controllable radiation patterns to be defined and adjusted to maximize signal reception from a desired field of view while rejecting signals from an undesired field of view through a gain definition circuit and antenna controller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a single antenna aperture is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to reject interfering signals from undesired fields of view deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system divides a large aperture into multiple smaller sub-apertures or segments. Each segment can independently form radiation patterns, and by combining patterns from multiple segments with different spatial orientations, the system achieves enhanced interference rejection capability without requiring a single complex large-aperture structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the spatial dimension by deploying multiple antenna segments at different locations and orientations. This multi-dimensional arrangement enables the system to distinguish between desired and undesired signals based on their spatial characteristics, achieving interference rejection through spatial diversity rather than increasing the complexity of a single aperture.
2Reliability
If multiple radiation patterns are sequentially established to maximize signal reception, then the signal-to-noise ratio improves, but the time required to converge on optimal pattern increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-establishes multiple radiation patterns corresponding to different desired fields of view before actual signal reception begins. This preliminary configuration allows the antenna to quickly switch between pre-optimized patterns rather than sequentially adjusting and converging on optimal patterns in real-time, significantly reducing the time loss during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna system dynamically selects and switches between multiple pre-established radiation patterns based on the desired field of view. This dynamic switching capability enables rapid adaptation to different signal sources without requiring time-consuming sequential adjustment and convergence processes.
3Manufacturing precision
If scattering elements with inter-element spacing less than free-space wavelength are used, then the radiation pattern control precision improves, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system segments the scattering elements into multiple groups or sub-arrays, each responsible for specific radiation pattern formation. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing of smaller element groups with precise spacing, while the overall complex pattern is achieved through coordinated operation of multiple standardized segments rather than manufacturing a single complex structure.
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 approach enables effective cancellation of interfering signals, enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio and maintaining desired signal strength, thereby improving the overall performance and reliability of the antenna system.
Implementation Method 1
Each segment of the at least two surface scattering antenna segments includes an electromagnetic waveguide structure and a plurality of electromagnetic wave scattering elements. The plurality of electromagnetic wave scattering elements are distributed along the waveguide structure and have an inter-element spacing substantially less than a free-space wavelength of a highest operating frequency of the antenna segment.
Implementation Method 2
The plurality of electromagnetic wave scattering elements are operable in combination to produce a controllable radiation pattern. The antenna system includes a gain definition circuit configured to define a series of at least two radiation patterns implementable by the at least two surface scattering antenna segments. The series of at least two respective radiation patterns is selected to facilitate a convergence on an antenna radiation pattern that maximizes a radiation performance metric that includes reception of a signal from a desired field of view or rejection of a signal from an undesired field of view.
Data Source
AI summary
Described embodiments include an antenna system and method. The antenna system includes at least two surface scattering antenna segments. Each segment includes a respective electromagnetic waveguide structure, and a respective plurality of electromagnetic wave scattering elements. The wave scattering elements are distributed along the waveguide structure, have an inter-element spacing substantially less than a free-space wavelength of a highest operating frequency of the antenna segment, have a respective activatable electromagnetic response to a propagating guided wave, and are operable in combination to produce a controllable radiation pattern. A gain definition circuit defines a series of at least two radiation patterns selected to facilitate a convergence on an antenna radiation pattern that maximizes a radiation performance metric. An antenna controller sequentially establishes each radiation pattern. A receiver receives the desired field of view signal and the undesired field of view signal.