Segmented Wedge Plate Radial Waveguide for Multi-Beam Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current antennas face challenges in determining which beam a signal was received on, especially when multiple beams are formed, and they lack efficient methods for segmentation and beam pointing functionality.
Innovation Solution
The use of a wedge plate-based waveguide with segmented feed points allows for the formation of multiple beams and provides spatial discrimination to determine the received signal's beam, utilizing a segmented cylindrical antenna design with wedge plates that operate coherently to maintain beam pointing characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple beams are formed simultaneously, then beam forming capability is improved, but the ability to determine which beam received the signal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture is divided into multiple sub-apertures, each associated with a specific beam. Each sub-aperture has its own feed point, allowing the system to segment the signal reception paths and identify which beam received the signal by determining which sub-aperture detected it.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the segmented aperture structure with distinct feed points) that mediates between the multiple beams and the signal detection system, enabling identification of the receiving beam through the specific sub-aperture that detected the signal.
2Ease of manufacture
If aperture segmentation is implemented, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but device complexity increases due to multiple wedge plates and feed points
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture is segmented into multiple sub-apertures using wedge plates, which simplifies manufacturing by allowing each sub-aperture to be fabricated and tested independently before assembly. The segmentation enables modular construction where identical or similar sub-aperture units can be replicated.
Solution Approach 2:
Each sub-aperture is designed with specific local characteristics (distinct feed points, specific wedge plate configurations) that optimize its individual performance. This local quality approach allows each segment to be tailored for its specific function while maintaining overall system coherence.
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 solution enables the generation of multiple beams simultaneously while allowing for precise identification of the received signal's beam, enhancing beam pointing functionality and reducing thermal expansion coefficients through aperture segmentation.
Implementation Method 1
a segmented wedge plate radial waveguide is provided which includes a plurality of wedge plates that form a plurality of sub-apertures
Implementation Method 2
each sub-aperture includes one wedge plate and a distinct subset of RF radiating antenna elements in the array
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna having a wedge plate-based waveguide with feed segmentation and a method for using the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, the antenna comprises an aperture having an array of radio-frequency (RF) radiating antenna elements and a segmented wedge plate radial waveguide comprises a plurality of wedge plates that form a plurality of sub-apertures, wherein each sub-aperture includes one wedge plate and a distinct subset of RF radiating antenna elements in the array, wherein each wedge plate of the plurality of wedge plates has a feed point to provide a feed wave for propagation through said each wedge plate for interaction with its distinct subset of RF radiating antenna elements in the array.