Array antennas with reduced number of RF-transmit/receive modules for increased efficiency

Purpose and goal:

The purpose of the project is to investigate how irregular subarrays can be used to increase energy efficiency in array antennas. The project has two specific goals:

1.To determine how the geometric choices of irregular subarrays improve the trade-off between the number of transmit/receive (T/R) modules and antenna gain for antennas with a wide bandwidth and wide field-of-view. 2.To validate the result by manufacturing a prototype array to determine the increase in system energy efficiency.

Expected results and effects:

The technology for irregular subarrays studied in this project integrates well with both Ericsson’s and Saab’s existing digital antenna arrays. Both companies compete on their respective markets and need to continuously improve to have a competitive product portfolio. A successful project will contribute to more accurate and energy efficient products, which is expected to give a competitive advantage for both companies.

Approach and implementation:

The project is planned to run over 2-years and contains 6 work packages (WP0 WP5). Each of the work packages has an appointed driver amongst the three partners but all three partners take part in all work packages. Monthly meetings are planned to report results and plan upcoming work. The collaboration in the work packages ensures that the knowledge is shared and distributed between the partners.