A Digital Antenna System for Steering Radio Signals

This patent describes a digital antenna system that uses multiple small antennas and digital processing to precisely aim radio signals across different frequency bands, while also managing power and heat.

What it covers

This patent details a system for a digital beamformed phased array feed. It includes a radome, which is a protective cover that allows radio waves to pass through. Inside, there's a multi-band software defined antenna array tile. This tile contains many small, coupled dipole antenna elements, along with frequency converters to shift signal bands and digital beamformers to precisely steer the radio signals. The system also features dedicated subsystems for managing power and timing, and for dissipating heat generated by the antenna tile, all housed within an enclosure assembly. For example, this system could be used in a 5G base station to direct signals to specific user devices.

What it doesn't cover

• —Does not cover antenna systems that use analog methods for beamforming instead of digital beamformers.
• —Does not cover single-band antenna systems, as it specifies a 'multi-band' array.
• —Does not cover antenna arrays that are not 'software defined', meaning their operation cannot be easily reconfigured through software.
• —Does not cover antenna systems that lack specific thermal management or power and clock management subsystems as described.
• —Does not cover antenna arrays that do not include coupled dipole array antenna elements as described in the system.

The clever bit

The novelty lies in combining multi-band, software-defined capabilities with digital beamforming within a compact antenna array tile, alongside integrated power, clock, and thermal management. This allows for a highly flexible and efficient system that can dynamically steer multiple radio beams across various frequencies while managing its own operational needs.

Why it matters

Digital beamforming is a core technology for modern wireless communication, enabling more efficient use of radio spectrum and targeted data delivery. This system's multi-band and software-defined capabilities are crucial for flexible and high-performance networks like 5G and advanced satellite communication. The inclusion of integrated power, clock, and thermal management addresses practical challenges in deploying such complex antenna arrays.

Real-world examples

• 1.5G base stations
• 2.Satellite communication terminals (e.g., for broadband internet)
• 3.Advanced radar systems
• 4.Electronic warfare systems
• 5.Wireless backhaul equipment