Switchable Phased Array Antenna Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phased array antenna systems are typically large and complex, requiring separate transmit and receive modules which increase cost and size, making them unsuitable for applications with limited space.
Innovation Solution
A switchable transmit and receive phased array antenna (STRPAA) design that incorporates a multilayer printed wiring board (MLPWB) with integrated T/R modules and radiating elements, utilizing a honeycomb aperture plate and wide angle impedance matching sheet to optimize scanning performance and reduce size, while sharing a common aperture for both transmission and reception.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate transmit and receive modules are used in phased array antenna systems, then the reliability and performance of each module can be optimized independently, but the overall system size, complexity, and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate transmit and receive modules into a single integrated T/R module that can switch between transmit and receive modes. This integration merges previously separate functional blocks into one unified module, reducing the number of components while maintaining the ability to perform both transmit and receive operations with optimized performance for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated T/R module is designed to perform multiple functions - both transmit and receive operations - within a single module. The module includes switchable circuitry that allows it to function as either a transmit amplifier or a receive amplifier depending on operational requirements, making the module universal and eliminating the need for separate dedicated transmit and receive modules.
2Reliability
If separate transmit and receive modules are used in phased array antenna systems, then each module can be optimized for its specific function, but the system size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges separate transmit and receive modules into a single integrated T/R module, reducing the total number of components and overall system weight. The integration consolidates multiple functional blocks into one module while maintaining optimized performance for both transmit and receive operations through switchable circuitry.
3Reliability
If traditional phased array antenna designs are used, then adequate space is available for separate transmit and receive components, but the antenna system becomes too large for applications with limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates separate transmit and receive components into a single T/R module that can be mounted on a compact multilayer printed circuit board. This merging of components dramatically reduces the volume required for the antenna system while maintaining the functional separation and optimization benefits through internal circuit switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a multilayer printed circuit board structure to accommodate the integrated T/R module and associated circuitry in a compact three-dimensional arrangement. By utilizing multiple layers and vertical stacking, the design achieves high component density and functional integration within a small footprint, effectively moving components from a two-dimensional plane to a three-dimensional space-efficient configuration.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a switchable transmit and receive phased array antenna ("STRPAA"). As an example, the STRPAA may include a housing, a multilayer printed wiring board ("MLPWB") within the housing having a top surface and a bottom surface, a plurality of radiating elements located on the top surface of the MLPWB, and a plurality of transmit and receive ("T/R") modules attached to the bottom surface of the MLPWB. The STRPAA may also include a plurality of vias, wherein each via, of the plurality of vias, passes through the MLPWB and is configured as a signal path between a T/R module, of the plurality of T/R modules, on the bottom surface of the MLPWB and a radiating element, of the plurality of radiating elements, located on the top surface of the MLPWB opposite the T/R module.