Switched Beam Forming Network for Antenna Pattern Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional antenna systems require complex and costly beam steering and phase calibration networks to alternately form directional and omnidirectional antenna radiation patterns, which are not feasible for applications like TCAS, Transponder, and UAT systems without additional networks.

Innovation Solution

A 4×4 hybrid matrix combined with a switching network that selectively switches between directional and omnidirectional antenna radiation patterns using 90-degree hybrids and quarter-wavelength transmission lines, eliminating the need for additional beam steering and phase calibration networks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional beam steering and phase calibration networks are used to form directional and omnidirectional antenna radiation patterns, then the antenna system can provide both directional and omnidirectional patterns, but the system becomes complicated, costly, and characterized by large sizes and extra weight

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to form directional and omnidirectional radiation patternsVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The 4×4 hybrid matrix is designed to perform multiple functions: it can form both directional and omnidirectional radiation patterns, and it can operate in both transmit and receive modes. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate beam steering and phase calibration networks, directly resolving the technical contradiction by providing adaptability without increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention combines the beam forming and phase calibration functions into a single 4×4 hybrid matrix structure. By merging these functions, the system achieves both directional and omnidirectional pattern formation capabilities without requiring additional separate networks, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to form directional and omnidirectional radiation patternsVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The 4×4 hybrid matrix serves as a universal component that handles both beam forming and phase calibration for multiple operation modes (directional and omnidirectional, transmit and receive). This universality reduces the total component count and simplifies manufacturing, directly addressing the cost issue while maintaining full adaptability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to form directional and omnidirectional radiation patternsVSAvoidsystem weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges multiple functional networks (beam steering and phase calibration) into a single integrated 4×4 hybrid matrix. This consolidation significantly reduces the physical footprint and weight of the system while preserving the ability to form both directional and omnidirectional radiation patterns

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables efficient and cost-effective formation of directional and omnidirectional antenna radiation patterns in both transmit and receive modes without the need for complex beam steering and phase calibration networks, reducing system size, weight, and manufacturing costs.

Implementation Method 1

Four 90-degree hybrids are serially interconnected to form a 4×4 hybrid matrix

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHybrid coupling:

Implementation Method 2

The hybrid matrix receives and transmits signals through antenna monopoles and is configured to selectively switch between directional and omnidirectional operation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWave interference: Interference

Data Source

PatentUS7508343B1Switched beam forming network for an amplitude monopulse directional and omnidirectional antenna

Publication Date: 2009.03.24 ROCKWELL COLLINS INC

AI summary

A switched beam forming network is disclosed having an antenna array and an integral beam forming network configured to selectively provide directional and omnidirectional antenna radiation patterns. Four 90-degree hybrids are serially interconnected to form a 4×4 hybrid matrix. The hybrid matrix receives and transmits signals through antenna monopoles and is configured to selectively switch between directional and omnidirectional operation. At least four antenna terminals connect the hybrid matrix to the antenna monopoles. Four input/output ports connect the hybrid matrix to a transmit/receive network through connecting lines. A plurality of switches are selectively actuatable to form the beam forming network.