Tilted Antenna Array Module for Cargo Hold Link Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antenna systems for cargo ships face challenges in maintaining acceptable link quality for communication between the deck and transponders located deep within cargo holds, especially in large container ships, due to cumbersome setup and interference issues.
Innovation Solution
An antenna array module comprising at least three antenna elements, with the first and second elements tilted to radiate towards one path and the third element radiating towards an opposite path, providing a sector-like coverage that reaches deep into cargo holds, utilizing patch antennas for their compact size and multiple frequency capabilities, and potentially employing circular polarization for improved signal integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If simple antennas are used as base stations for communication, then the device complexity is reduced, but the link quality deteriorates when transponders are located deep down in the cargo holds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single antenna system into multiple antenna elements (at least three) arranged in an array configuration. Each antenna element contributes to the overall radiation pattern, enabling the system to achieve better coverage and link quality deep in cargo holds without requiring a single complex antenna structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple antenna elements into a unified antenna array module that functions as a single communication system. By merging the radiation patterns of multiple elements through specific geometric arrangements and tilting angles, the system achieves enhanced signal penetration and coverage throughout the cargo hold space.
2Reliability
If antenna elements are added to improve coverage, then the link quality improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different orientations and tilting angles to specific antenna elements based on their local radiation requirements. The first and second antenna elements are tilted at specific angles relative to the vertical axis to optimize coverage in particular directions, allowing each element to contribute its strength to specific zones within the cargo hold.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric tilting angles for the antenna elements rather than symmetric arrangements. The first antenna element is tilted at a first angle and the second at a second angle, both relative to the vertical axis, creating an asymmetric pattern that optimizes coverage for the specific geometric constraints of the cargo hold and ship structure.
3Reliability
If the bridge is positioned to divide the cargo ship into longer and shorter parts, then the communication coverage is optimized for the longer part, but the shorter part may experience reduced coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses the uneven coverage problem by introducing angular/directional dimensions to the antenna element arrangements. By tilting elements at specific angles relative to the vertical axis and orienting them toward different paths, the system compensates for the bridge's asymmetric position and extends coverage to both the longer and shorter parts of the cargo ship.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic radiation pattern through the specific tilting and orienting of antenna elements. The first and second antenna elements are tilted to radiate toward a first path (longer part), while the third element radiates toward a second path (shorter part), allowing the system to adaptively cover different regions based on the bridge position.
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 solution effectively establishes a reliable communication link across the entire cargo ship, ensuring good coverage even in the deepest parts of the cargo hold, enhancing communication quality and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
said first and said second antenna element are so positioned that the main lobe of their directive pattern points towards a first path corresponding to said longer part, and said third antenna element is positioned to radiate mainly towards a second path opposite to said first path
Data Source
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Figure 5A~5B
AI summary
The present invention relates to an antenna array module for a communication system on a cargo ship, comprising at least a first (11), a second (12) and a third (16) antenna element, each mounted on a ground plane and containing an antenna feed. The first (11) antenna element is tilted with respect to the second (12) antenna element. The first and the second antenna element are arranged to radiate mainly towards a first path along the cargo ship and the third (16) antenna element is arranged to radiate mainly towards a second path opposite to the first path.