Description:Field of the invention
[0001] The present invention relates to a wireless communication system. The invention specifically relates to a system for configurable signal transmission and reception.
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Background of the invention
[0002] Antennas are major components in communication systems, especially wireless communication systems. The antennas are designed to transmit and receive electromagnetic (EM) waves or signals, such as radio waves, microwaves, radar signals and cell phone signals. These waves travel through space and carry information from one communication device to another communication device. The antennas enable wireless communication across a wide array of applications such as consumer electronics like smartphones to critical applications of aerospace and defense to transmit and receive data and connectivity.
[0003] The productivity of the wireless communication system is majorly dependent on the effectiveness and capability of the antenna to transmit and receive signals over a wide spectrum of frequencies and maintaining uniform radiation and gain in the three-dimensional space. Also, the performance of the antenna is also determined by its gain, radiation pattern and bandwidth.
[0004] Further the antennas are usually made of conductive segments and may vary with shapes and sizes as per the applications they are used for. Antennas are selected for various applications based on their design, bandwidth, and gain of the signal, directional needs and application requirement.
[0005] Existing antenna are restricted to specific bandwidth of frequencies due to their limitation and physical length, where the length is determined by the wavelength of the signal the antenna is receiving or transmitting. The present used antenna is designed for specific frequency ranges which make them unsuitable for wideband operations. Also, these antennae fail to maintain radiation pattern when multiple frequency bands are involved.
[0006] Moreover, the antenna is categorized based on the number of conductive segments used for its construction, which are single segment antenna, double or two segment antenna and multiple segment antenna. Multiple segment antenna uses more than two conductive segments and are designed for high performance, greater gain, directivity and ability to operate at wide range of frequencies. Multiple segments can be arranged in various geometric configurations to achieve certain performance characteristics.
[0007] Traditional antenna such as monopoles, dipoles and multi segment antenna are widely used in wireless systems due their functionality and design. They are usually designed to operate at single frequency or specific or frequency range. But traditional antenna has few shortcomings when operating within wide spectrum of frequencies and providing uniform gain in all directions of three-dimensional space. The shortcomings are due to the antenna structure, material used and physical limitations in design.
[0008] The design and performance characteristics of the traditional antenna have evolved to meet wireless communication needs, particularly in cases of bandwidth limitations, multi- frequency operation, size constraints, and omnidirectional gain and so on. Another essential aspect of antenna characteristic is its radiation pattern. Radiation pattern describes the distribution of the electromagnetic energy an antenna radiates in the three-dimensional space.
[0009] In modern wireless communication systems, the demand of antenna to operate across wide spectrum of frequency ranges is booming. The modern systems and wireless networks include Wi-Fi, satellite communication, Internet of Things (IoT) applications and devices and 5G cellular technology require antenna to transmit and receive signals over wide spectrum of frequency bands. Most of the existing antenna are designed to operate across specific frequency bands which limits its ability to perform where multiple frequencies are required and in modern communication devices.
[0010] Also, the antenna which are designed for narrow frequency range are efficient but are unable to operate in wide spectrum of frequencies as required by modern system and wireless networks. These antenna struggle to maintain their performance when required to operate over wide spectrum of frequencies. To address this limitation, wideband antenna has been developed. The wideband antenna tends to operate over distinct frequency ranges, but still fail to offer wideband capabilities which are needed to support modern wireless communication devices and standards operating simultaneously.
[0011] Though wideband antenna exists, they strive to deliver consistent performance and efficiency across the entire frequency range. The operation of the wideband antenna is often compromised on parameters like gain of the antenna and directivity of the signals. The wideband antenna are unable to maintain uniform gain across entire frequency range. The performance of the wideband antenna worsens at higher frequency ranges due to physical size constraints and impedance variation. This remains a major challenge when wideband antenna is involved in modern communication systems.
[0012] Another issue with wideband antenna is of interference. Multiple frequencies can overlap or interfere with each other to degrade the signal quality. The interference usually occurs when the multi standard communication devices and systems are used where multiple wireless protocols are used simultaneously. The existing wideband antenna fall short in signal isolation between frequency bands in highly congested spectrum frequencies.
[0013] Another drawback of traditional antenna is inability to provide uniform omnidirectional gain in three-dimensional space. Traditional antenna exhibits strong radiation patterns in some directions and planes while weak in other directions and planes. Currently used antenna like monopoles or dipoles can achieve omnidirectional radiation pattern in only horizontal plane in two dimensions. The gain of present antenna degrades when considered in vertical plane. The efficiency and radiation pattern is limited and weaker in areas above and below of the present antenna resulting in regions of null zones where antenna does not receive or radiate signals effectively. Therefore, there is non-uniform coverage in the three-dimensional space.
[0014] The lack of ability to achieve omnidirectional gain in three-dimensional space gives rise to null zones or uneven signal distribution. This results in unreliable wireless networks especially in dynamic applications where communication devices are positioned in any direction. This will be a major problem for applications like satellite communication, mobile and cellular communication and robotics, in which the antenna’s ability to transmit and receive signals from all directions in three-dimensional space is critical.
[0015] From above aspects, some antennae are designed for wideband spectrum performance while others for omnidirectional gain, there is no current technology equipped with both characteristics simultaneously, especially across three-dimensional space.
[0016] The existing antenna used today fall short in an area of their inability to simultaneously handle multiple frequencies with a uniform omnidirectional gain across three-dimensional space. Existing antenna technology struggle to maintain wideband frequency coverage and to maintain consistent omnidirectional gain and radiation patterns in all directions.
[0017] Wideband antenna often struggles with directivity and efficiency, especially in vertical plane, having compromised performance in three dimensional spaces. Conversely, omnidirectional antenna often fails to cover wide or multiple range of frequencies effectively, which limits their functions in multi frequency communication applications.
[0018] Also, present multi segment antenna has inability to provide simultaneous wideband reception and transmission of signals and have limitations of maintaining uniform gain in all directions in three-dimensional space.
[0019] Therefore, there is a need for a system for configurable signal transmission and reception to overcome a few or all drawbacks of the existing technologies.

Objects of the invention
[0020] An object of the present invention is to provide a system for configurable signal transmission and reception.
[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide a system configured to receive and transmit multiple frequency bands simultaneously.
[0022] One more object of the present invention is to provide a system programmed to create multiple geometric configurations catering to different applications.
[0023] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a system with a uniform omnidirectional gain in three dimensions.
[0024] Further one more object of the invention is to provide a system configured to operate within wideband spectrum of frequencies.
[0025] Another object of the invention is to provide a system with no interference of signals during transmission and reception of wideband spectrum of frequencies.
[0026] An object of the present invention is to provide a programmable multi-segment antenna.

Summary of the Invention
[0027] According to present invention, a system configured for transmission and reception of signals is described. The system comprises a substrate, a plurality of conductive segments disposed on the substrate. The conductive segments forming a grid of intersecting elements where the grid is configured to function as an antenna. A plurality of switching elements are operatively connected to the conductive segments. The switching elements are configured to selectively connect or disconnect adjacent conductive segments to dynamically reconfigure the antenna.
[0028] A control network may be operatively connected to the plurality of switching elements. The control network is adapted to configure connections among the plurality of conductive segments to form varying antenna geometries. A controller is operatively connected to the control network. The controller is configured to control the antenna geometry to support one or more frequency bands for transmission or reception. A radio module is operatively connected to the controller. The radio module is configured to process signals transmitted or received by the antenna.
[0029] The conductive segments are arranged in a grid pattern with predetermined lengths and each segment has a length proportional to a fraction of the wavelength corresponding to the operating frequency.
[0030] The conductive segments are made from a material selected from the group consisting of copper, nickel, silver, and gold-plated copper.
[0031] The switching elements includes analog switches arranged at intersections of the conductive segments. Each analog switch being configured to selectively connect or disconnect adjacent segments in response to control signals.
[0032] The analog switches are operatively controlled to form continuous conductive paths by connecting multiple conductive segments, thereby adjusting the effective electrical length of the conductive segments.
[0033] The control network includes an analog switch multiplexer network configured to selectively activate or deactivate specific switching elements to form one or more antenna configurations. The control network is configured to support simultaneous reconfiguration of multiple groups of conductive segments to enable multi-frequency operation.
[0034] The control network interfaces with the controller to adjust antenna configurations based on operational parameters such as frequency bands and signal coverage requirements.
[0035] The controller is configured to generate control signals for the control network to dynamically modify the interconnections among the conductive segments, and adjust the antenna geometry to support operation across one or more frequency bands. The controller is configured to modify directivity characteristics of the antenna, including omnidirectional and directional beam patterns, based on operational parameters or commands provided to the system.
[0036] The radio module is configured to process signals transmitted or received by the antenna in multiple frequency bands simultaneously, wherein the radio module includes a software-defined radio (SDR) that commands the controller to adjust the antenna geometry to match specific frequency bands during operation.
[0037] The radio module processes signals from conductive segments of varying lengths and orientations, enabling wideband reception and transmission, wherein the radio module is configured to utilize the antenna to populate a spectrum signature for radio navigation or situational awareness applications.
[0038] The system further includes a programmable radio frequency (RF) splitter/combiner operatively coupled to the radio module, the splitter/combiner configured to distribute signals across distinct antenna configurations during transmission and to combine received signals during reception.
[0039] The substrate is composed of a flexible polymer selected from the group consisting of polyester, polyimide, and nylon.
[0040] In an aspect, a method for dynamically configuring a system which is configured for transmission and reception of signals is provided. The method comprises of steps of providing a substrate with a plurality of conductive segments disposed in a grid pattern, selectively connecting or disconnecting adjacent conductive segments within the grid using a plurality of switching elements, wherein the grid is configurable to function as an antenna, controlling the switching elements using a control network to dynamically modify the geometry of the antenna formed by the connected conductive segments , configuring a controller to adjust the effective electrical length of the conductive segments to operate within one or more frequency bands, and to modify the directivity of the antenna for directional or omnidirectional signal transmission or reception, and operating a radio module communicatively connected to the controller, wherein the radio module is configured to send commands to the controller to modify the antenna configuration for specific frequency bands or directivity modes, and process signals transmitted or received by the antenna across one or more configured frequency bands.
[0041] The control network includes an analog switch multiplexer configured to manage the connection of the conductive segments. The electrical length of the conductive segments is dynamically altered through control network and controller to form different antenna geometries.
[0042] The antenna is dynamically reconfigured to enable simultaneous transmission or reception across multiple frequency bands.
[0043] The conductive segments are selectively activated to form a directional beam for focused signal transmission or reception.
[0044] The controller operates in a frequency-hopping mode to dynamically change operating frequencies across multiple bands.
[0045] The radio module is a software-defined radio configured to dynamically adjust its frequency band of operation based on user input.

Brief description of drawings:
[0046] The advantages and features of the present invention will be understood better with reference to the following detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like elements are identified with like symbols, and in which:
[0047] Figure 1 shows the block diagram of the system for configurable signal transmission and reception in accordance with the present invention;
[0048] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of spherical antenna formed by plurality of vertical and horizontal conductive segments in disconnected state;
[0049] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of the spherical antenna formed by plurality of vertical and horizontal segments in connected state;
[0050] Figure 4 shows the block diagram of the system for configurable signal transmission and reception in accordance one of the embodiments of the present invention; and
[0051] Figure 5 shows the flow chart of method for dynamically configuring the system in accordance with the present invention.

Detailed description of the invention
[0052] An embodiment of this invention, illustrating its features, will now be described in detail. The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open-ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items, or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items.
[0053] The present invention describes a system configured for signal transmission and reception. The system comprises a substrate, on which a plurality of conductive segments is disposed to form a grid to function as an antenna. The conductive segments are connected with a plurality of switching elements which are configured to connect or disconnect adjacent conductive segments and a control network connected to switching elements to configure connection of the conductive segments to form varying geometries. The control network is connected with a controller which is configured to control the geometry of antenna to support and operate on one or more frequency bands for transmission and reception of signals. A radio module is connected to the controller to process signals transmitted or received by the antenna. The system is configured to transmit and receive multiple frequency band signals simultaneously in omnidirectional space.
[0054] The terms “first”, “second”, and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another, and the terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items.
[0055] The disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms.
[0056] Referring now to figure 1, the system (100) includes a substrate (110), a plurality of conductive segments (120), and a plurality of switching elements (130), a control network (140), a controller (150) and a radio module (160).
[0057] The system (100) includes a substrate (110) having a spherical or ellipsoidal geometry. It may be obvious for the person skilled in the art to use any other shape that gives an omnidirectional coverage in three-dimensional space.
[0058] The substrate (110) is disposed with a plurality of conductive segments (120). The plurality of segments forms a grid of intersecting elements. The conductive segments (120) align with the shape of the substrate (110) to form the grid of intersecting elements. The conductive segments (120) form a spherical or ellipsoidal shape to form the grid.
[0059] The substrate (110) provides mechanical support and rigidity to the grid formed by the plurality of conductive segments (120). The substrate (110) is an insulator or a dielectric material providing electrical insulation between the conductive segments (120) of the system (100). The substrate (110) provides physical and electrical isolation between the plurality of conductive segments (120).
[0060] The substrate (110) affects electromagnetic properties and may impact parameters such as resonant frequency, bandwidth, gain and radiation pattern. The substrate (110) is composed of a flexible polymer selected from the group consisting of polyester, polyimide and nylon. In another embodiment, the substrate (110) may be a non-conductive polymer or a dielectric material like ceramic, laminates and so on. It is obvious to a person skilled in the art to use any dielectric materials for the substrate
[0061] Referring now to figure 2, the conductive segments (120) are arranged in a grid of intersecting elements. The conductive segments (120) are arranged in a grid pattern with predetermined lengths, each segment having a length proportional to a fraction of the wavelength corresponding to the operating frequency. The conductive segments are made from a material selected from the group consisting of copper, nickel, silver, and gold-plated copper.
[0062] The grid formed of the conductive segments (120) is configurable to function as an antenna (125). The grid is formed of vertical conductive segments (120a) and horizontal conductive segments (120b). The vertical conductive segments (120a) and horizontal conductive segments (120b) are in disconnected state initially. The conductive segments (120) have predetermined length. The length of each conductive segment is proportional to a fraction of the wavelength corresponding to the operating frequency.
[0063] The conductive segments (120) enable the system (100) to transmit and receive the electromagnetic waves which are used to transmit and receive signals. The conductive segments (120) radiate electromagnetic waves when alternating current pass through them and interact with electromagnetic waves through incoming electromagnetic wave’s field. The conductive segments (120) are made of high electrical conductivity material for efficient radiation and interaction with electromagnetic waves. The conductive segments (120) are made of high electrical conductivity material for efficient radiation and interaction with electromagnetic waves. The conductive segments (120) are made from material selected from the group consisting of copper-, nickel-, silver- and gold-plated copper. In present embodiment the conductive segments (120) are made up of copper.
[0064] The plurality of conductive segments (120) is connected at the intersecting ends with a plurality of switching elements (130). Specifically, the conductive segments (120) are connected to each other at the intersecting ends. In the present embodiment, two vertical conductive segments (120a) and horizontal two conductive segments (120b) are used. Referring to figure 3, each vertical conductive segments (120a) and each horizontal conductive segments (120b) is connected at the intersecting ends (135) with a switching element (130). The plurality of switching elements (130) is operatively connected to the conductive segments (120). The switching elements (130) are configured to selectively connect or disconnect adjacent conductive segments (120) to dynamically reconfigure the antenna (125). Specifically, the switching elements (130) is configured to selectively connect or disconnect adjacent conductive segments (120) within the grid. The switching elements (130) connect or disconnect the two vertical conductive segments (120a) and two horizontal conductive segments (120b) or at a cross-section connection of the vertical conductive segments (120a) and the horizontal conductive segments (120b). The switching elements (130) dynamically reconfigure the antenna (125) by selectively connecting and disconnecting the conductive segments (120). The connection and interconnection of the conductive segments (120a, 120b) forms the complete grid through the switching elements (130).
[0065] The switching elements (130) is used to selectively control the vertical conductive segments (120a) and horizontal conductive segments (120b) to be activated and connected to each other. The switching elements (130) helps in tuning, controlling radiation pattern, beam forming and switching of configurations of the conductive segments (120) which in turn changes the frequencies of transmission and reception.
[0066] The switching elements (130) includes analog switches arranged at intersection of the conductive segments (120). The analog switches are configured to selectively connect and disconnect adjacent conductive segments (120) in response to control signals. The analog switches are operatively controlled to form continuous conductive paths by connecting multiple conductive segments (120). The switching elements (130) and conductive segments (120) when connected form a continuous conductive path and form a grid, adjusting the effective electrical length of the conductive segments (120).
[0067] The analog switches used are PIN diode switches, electromechanical switches, Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) based switches and solid-state switches. It may be obvious for a person skilled in the art to select and use any other switch for connecting and disconnecting the conductive segments (120).
[0068] Now referring to figure 1, the plurality of switching elements (130) is operatively connected to a control network (140). The control network (140) is adapted to configure connections among the plurality of conductive segments (120) to form varying antenna (125) geometries. The switching elements (130) enable the conductive segments (120) to form varying geometries which is configured to receive and transmit signals. In present invention the geometry is in spherical shape to form the grid of the conductive segments (120) which function as an antenna (125).
[0069] The control network (140) includes an analog switch multiplexer network which is configured to selectively activate and deactivate specific switching elements (130) to form one or more antenna (125) configurations. The analog switch multiplexers are used to select the switching elements (130). The specific switching elements (130) is selected to activate or deactivate the specific conductive segments (120) to form a grid or geometry of conductive segments (120). The geometries of grid of the conductive segments (120) may be varied to form one or more geometric configurations.
[0070] The connections between the switching elements (130) and conductive segments (120) are operated and controlled through the control network (140) to form different geometries. The geometries may be a spherical or ellipsoidal in shape with the substrate (110). The spherical or ellipsoidal shape provide a three-dimensional surface and spatial diversity. It may be obvious for the person skilled in the art to vary and use geometries which give omnidirectional gain in three-dimensional space. The diverse geometries enable the system (100) to support wideband spectrum of frequencies and serve directional needs and gain of and to have uniform omnidirectional or directional radiation pattern of the signals.
[0071] The selection of the switching elements (130) and activation and deactivation of the conductive segments (120) is based on the requirement of transmission and reception of signals of specific frequency or spectrum. The control network (140) is configured to support simultaneous reconfiguration of multiple groups of conductive segments (120) to enable multiple frequency operation. In the present embodiment, the configuration and reconfiguration of the plurality of conductive segments (120) is carried out by the control network (140). To form various geometric configuration which support multi- frequency operation.
[0072] In an embodiment, the analog switch multiplexer may be a single input multiple output multiplexer, a single input single output multiplexer or a multiple input multiple output multiplexer. The person skilled in the art may select and use wideband, narrow band analog switch multiplexers and double pole double throw multiplexer. The multiplexer may be with low on resistance.
[0073] Alternatively, a RF multiplexor may be cascaded after the analog switch multiplexer but will not replace the analog multiplexer whose purpose is to connect the conductive elements through switching elements.
[0074] The control network (140) is operatively connected to the controller (150). The controller (150) is configured to control the geometry of antenna (125) to support one or more frequency bands for transmission or reception. Specifically the controller (150) is configured to control the geometry of conductive segments (120) which supports one or more frequency bands for transmission or reception. The controller (150) controls connection between the conductive segments (120) and the switching elements (130) through the control network (140). The control network (140) interfaces with the controller (150) to adjust geometric configurations based on operational parameters such as frequency bands and signal coverage requirements.
[0075] The controller (150) is a processing unit. The controller (150) may be a manual controller, an electronic controller or a software defined controller. The controller (150) may be a digital signal processor (DSP), field programmable gate array (FPGA), or an analog controller. It may be obvious for the person skilled in the art to select the controller (150) which satisfies the functional requirements of the system (100). In present embodiment an advanced RISC machine (ARM) based microcontroller is used.
[0076] The controller (150) is able to control radiation pattern formation, frequency band selection and signal modulation and demodulation.
[0077] The controller (150) is configured to generate control signals for the control network (140) to dynamically modify the interconnections among the conductive segments (120), and adjust the geometry to support operation across one or more frequency bands. The control network (140) based on the control signals dynamically adjust the interconnections of the conductive segments (120) through switching elements (130). The control signals from the controller (150) through the control network (140) send command to activate or deactivate the switching elements (130) and form geometric configurations of the conductive segments (120).
[0078] The electrical length of the conductive segment depends on the physical length and the wavelength of the signal the conductive segment is configured to transmit or receive. The electrical length of the conductive segment may be a fraction of wavelength or multiple of wavelength. The electrical length of the conductive segments (120) determines and affect the frequency at which the system (100) will operate or transmit and receive the signals efficiently.
[0079] The activation and deactivation of the switching elements (130) alter physical and electrical length of the conductive segments (120) based on the control signal. The physical length of the conductive segments is altered by connecting and disconnecting specific segments of the conductive segments to form the antenna. The controller (150) through the control network (140) may increase or decrease the electrical length of the conductive segments (120). The change in electrical length of the conductive segments (120) leads to change in operating frequency bands of reception and transmission of the system (100). By changing the electrical length of conductive segments (120) the system (100) and connecting multiple conductive segments (120) of different lengths, while isolating each segment from each other, the system can be programmed to operate at multiple frequencies or bands of frequency simultaneously. The change in electrical length of the conductive segments (120) may be simultaneous to reconfigure the conductive segments (120) to enable multiple frequency operation. So, the system (100) may operate at one or multiple frequency ranges.
[0080] The change in geometry of the grid of conductive segments (120) enables the operation of the antenna (125) to operate across one or more frequency bands.
[0081] Further, the controller (150) is configured to modify the directivity characteristics of the antenna (125), including omnidirectional and directional beam patterns, based on the operational parameters or commands provided to the system. (100). The controller (150) is configured to modify the directivity characteristics of the antenna (125). The controller (150) may modify and control the beam patterns of the antenna (125) including directional and omnidirectional beam patterns, based on the operational parameters or commands provided to the system (100).
[0082] The operational parameters involve frequency bands and number of frequency bands simultaneously operated, the range of wavelengths operated, gain of the antenna, directivity of the transmission that is omnidirectional or in one direction, radiation patterns, signal coverage requirements, transmitting bands and receiving bands selection and so on.
[0083] The controller (150) generates control signals to control network (140) to dynamically modify the interconnections among the conductive segments (120) by switching the switching elements (130). The geometry of the conductive segments (120) is altered in order to configure the system (100) to receive and transmit the signals as needed in particular direction or all directions in the three-dimensional space. The system (100) may form radiation pattern in particular direction or all directions. The grid of the conductive segments (120) forms a geometry of antenna (125) which may receive and transmit signals omnidirectionally.
[0084] The controller (150) is operatively connected to the radio module (160) which is configured to process signals transmitted or received by the antenna (125).
[0085] The radio module (160) is configured to process the transmitted and received signals by the system (100) in multiple frequency bands. The processing of the signals may be done simultaneously. The radio module (160) includes a software defined radio (SDR) that commands the controller (150) to adjust the antenna (125) geometry or the geometry of conductive segments (120) to match specific frequency bands during operation.
[0086] The software defined Radio (SDR) is a radio communication system (100) where components that conventionally have been implemented in analog hardware are instead implemented by means of software on a computer or embedded system (100).
[0087] The software defined radio commands the controller (150) to configure the antenna (125) for specific frequency band and direction. The software defined radio may configure the antenna (125) with different directivity modes.
[0088] The software defined radio is scanning the conductive segments (120) for their frequency bands and directivity mode and based on the scanning, the command is sent to the controller (150).
[0089] The software defined radio (SDR) receives a wide range of radio frequencies using the configurable antenna (125). By scanning and analyzing the detected signals, the system (100) creates a "map" or "signature" of radio activity in the area. The map or signature of the radio activity may be used for radio navigation and situational awareness analysis.
[0090] The purpose of the software defined radio (SDR) is to convert wideband received signal into digital signal or convert digital signals into wideband signal which will be transmitted through the antenna (125).
[0091] The radio navigation determines a location by comparing the signature to known spectrum patterns. In situational awareness analysis the understanding of the signal environment, such as identifying active communication frequencies or interference sources is done.
[0092] The radio module (160) processes signals from conductive segments (120) of varying lengths and orientations, enabling wideband reception and transmission, wherein the radio module (160) is configured to utilize the antenna (125) to populate a spectrum signature for radio navigation or situational awareness applications.
[0093] The system (100) with the radio module (160) and conductive segments (120) of varying lengths and orientations to process wide range of radio signals with different frequencies. The resulting spectrum signature (or radiation pattern) of the signals created by the antenna (125) may be used for applications such as radio navigation and situational awareness analysis.
[0094] Referring now to figure 4, in an embodiment, the system (100) further includes a programmable radio frequency (RF) splitter / combiner. The programmable splitter / combiner is operatively coupled to the radio module (160). The programmable splitter / combiner is configured to distribute signals across distinct antenna (125) geometric configurations during transmission and combine received signals during reception.
[0095] The RF splitter splits and distribute the signal to multiple output signals at output ports. It divides a single input signal into multiple output signals. The programmable splitter has flexible and dynamic signal distribution through programming. The programmable splitter may split the signal evenly into multiple signals from the conductive segments (120) and transmit it in three-dimensional space. The programmable splitter may split the signal in multiple frequency bands and evenly or intelligently distributing the signals across conductive segments (120).
[0096] The various geometries of the conductive segments (120) may enable the programmable splitter to distribute the signal for transmission and hence may transmit multiple frequency signals. The programmable splitter may be used to transmit multiple frequency bands through antenna (125) during transmission.
[0097] The programmable combiner combines the receiving multiple signals into a single output signal. The programmable combiner combines the multiple signals without causing interference or loss of signal quality. The conductive segments (120) receive the multiple frequency signals and the combiner combines the signal into a single output signal. Both programmable combiner and programmable splitter may cater to reduce interference of the signals.
[0098] Referring now to figure 5, a method (200) for dynamically configuring a system (100) for signal transmission and reception in accordance with the present invention is illustrated. The method (200) is described in conjunction with the system (100) described above in the paragraphs.
[0099] The method (200) starts at step (210).
[00100] At step (220), providing a substrate (110) with a plurality of conductive segments (120) disposed in a grid pattern. The conductive segments (120) are arranged on the substrate (110) to form a grid of conductive segments (120).
[00101] Further at step (230), selectively connecting or disconnecting adjacent conductive segments (120) within the grid using a plurality of switching elements (130), wherein the grid is configurable to function as an antenna (125). The switching elements (130) selects the adjacent conductive segments (120) to connect and disconnect with each other within the grid. The connection and disconnection of the conductive segments (120) to form the grid of different shapes, sizes, lengths and orientation of the conductive segment and its conductive path. The connected conductive segments (120) in the grid are configured to function as an antenna (125).
[00102] At step (240), controlling the switching elements (130) using a control network (140) to dynamically modify the geometry of the antenna (125) formed by the connected conductive segments (120). The control network (140) controls the switching elements to modify the geometry of the connected conductive segments (120) forming the antenna (125). The selective connections of the conductive segments (120) determine the overall structure of the antenna (125) enabling it to configure and adapt to be used with multiple band frequencies. The modification of the geometry of the connected conductive segments (120) tends to operate the antenna (125) for transmission and reception of wideband frequency signals.
[00103] At step (250), configuring a controller (150) to adjust the effective electrical length of the conductive segments (120) to operate within one or more frequency bands and modify the directivity of the antenna (125) for directional or omnidirectional signal transmission or reception. The controller (150) through switching elements (130) adjusts and vary the electrical length of the conductive segments (120). The change in electrical length enables the conductive segments (120) to operate within one or more frequency bands. The controller (150) may also configure the antenna (125) to set the directional or omnidirectional modes of the antenna (125) for transmission and reception of the signals.
[00104] Further at step (260), operating a radio module (160) communicatively connected to the controller (150), wherein the radio module (160) is configured to send commands to the controller (150) to modify the antenna (125) configuration for specific frequency bands or directivity modes, and process signals transmitted or received by the antenna (125) across one or more configured frequency bands. The radio module (160) operates in a feedback loop, where radio module (160) analyses and processes the signals transmitted and received by the antenna (125) and directivity. The radio module (160) sends commands to the controller (150) to modify and adjust the antenna (125) configurations for specific frequency and directivity modes based on the feedback and command. The signals processed by the radio module (160) are configured and matched to the current operation and configuration of the antenna (125).
[00105] The method (200) ends at step (270).
[00106] The method enables the system to operate across multiple frequencies and dynamic change through real time adaptability.
[00107] The control network (140) includes an analog switch multiplexer configured to manage the connection of the conductive segments (120). The control network (140) used in the method includes an analog switch multiplexer which is configured to manage the connection of the conductive segments (120). The analog multiplexer is configured to form one or more antenna (125) configurations and orientations by switching the specific switching elements (130).
[00108] The antenna (125) is dynamically reconfigured to enable simultaneous transmission or reception across multiple frequency bands. The dynamic modification of the geometry of the antenna (125) formed by the connected conductive segments (120) enables simultaneous transmission or reception of signals across multiple frequency bands. The dynamic reconfiguration means that the antenna’s geometry may be altered during operation without requirement in physical changes. The reconfiguration of the antenna (125) may be done by varying the geometry, electrical length of the conductive segments (120) and directivity of the signals in the three-dimensional space. The reconfiguration leads to multiple band frequency operation.
[00109] The conductive segments (120) are selectively activated to form a directional beam for focused signal transmission or reception. The switching elements (130) activate or deactivate the conductive segments (120) to form a desired geometry and to function for focused directional beam transmission and reception. The geometry of the antenna (125) determines the direction of signal transmission or reception. The directional beam enables targeted communication with multiple frequency signals.
[00110] The controller (150) operates in a frequency hopping mode to dynamically change operating frequencies across multiple bands. The frequency hopping is a technique which occurs where the transmission and reception of signals occur on different frequencies at a predetermined or pseudo random sequence. The controller operates by dynamically shifting the frequency over a wide spectrum hopping between the frequencies in pseudorandom or predetermined sequence. Wideband signals span a broad spectrum of frequencies, enabling high data rates and better signal clarity. The omnidirectional nature of the antenna (125) allows the signal to be transmitted in all directions, ensuring broader coverage. By dynamically changing frequencies, the system (100) may adapt to changing conditions in the environment, such as signal degradation, or congestion.
[00111] The radio module (160) is a software defined radio configured to dynamically adjust its frequency band of operation based on user input. The user specifies the desired frequency band for operation and the software defined radio (SDR) processes the user input. The SDR sends a command to controller (150) to dynamically adjust the frequency band of operation by reconfiguring the conductive segments (120) accordingly.
[00112] The system (100) explained in the present invention may be used in various examples and scenarios for effective communication and trans reception of signals. The dynamic nature of the system (100) has enabled its use in various applications.
[00113] When a particular signal or band of particular frequency signals are jammed and non-operational due to environmental sources or interference, the system (100) may detect the disruption of the signal. The system (100) is configured to operate with multiple frequency bands and may be operated with other bands of signals. The control network (140) of the system (100) receives disruption input from radio module (160) and control network (140) may switch the antenna (125) to operate for a new frequency band. The conductive segments (120) are dynamically adjusted to new frequency for transmission and reception and establish a continuous communication without any disruption. The dynamic adjusting of the system to new frequency is frequency hopping spread spectrum.
[00114] In another scenario, the communication usually gets disrupted in disaster and catastrophic region due to infrastructure damage, interference from other communication networks and environmental conditions. The system (100) proposed in the invention play a critical role in retrieving data, assessing damage and communicating with affected region. The system (100) and the antenna (125) allow dynamic reconfiguration which adapt to changing signal conditions and maintaining effective communications with disaster prone and disaster hit regions for rescue operations and relief coordination.
[00115] The system (100) with antenna (125) configured with multiple conductive segments (120) may simultaneously transmit and receive on multiple frequency bands. One group of conductive segments may operate for one frequency and may be used for voice communication, second group of conductive segments operate at second frequency and may be used for data transfer and retrieval and third group of conductive segments operate at third frequency and may be used for broadcasting signals. The system’s (100) enables the effective communication channels are established when primary channels are jammed or disrupted.
[00116] The adaptability of antenna (125) for reconfiguration may switch from omnidirectional to directional mode of operation. If the communication needs to be focused on specific area or rescue operation during disaster, the antenna (125) may adapt to form directional beam to communicate within the area.
[00117] Further in case to cater and overcome signal interference, the system (100) has the ability to mitigate the interference issues. Interference is a phenomenon that usually occurs when unwanted signals disrupt the transmission and reception of intended signals. Interference is a troublesome phenomenon when communication channels and systems rely on narrow band of frequencies for transmission and reception. The system (100) allows to operate at broad range of frequencies and allows switching of frequencies simultaneously. The dynamic reconfiguration of the antenna (125)’s geometry and number of conductive segments (120) of the system (100), the system (100) may vary the radiation pattern of the antenna (125).
[00118] The software defined radio (SDR) detects and analyzes the received signal, looking for high intensity noise and overlapping of signals. After detection of the signal interference on the current frequency, the controller (150) commands the switching elements (130) to change and reconfigure the conductive segments (120) to adapt for a new frequency band. Also, the antenna (125) may be dynamically reconfigured to adapt to a particular direction to avoid sources of interference.
[00119] The system (100) is equipped with a programmable multi-segment antenna. So, the system (100) is configured for signal transmission and reception of signals and to also to transmit and receive multiple frequency bands simultaneously. The system is programmed to create multiple geometric configurations of antenna catering to different applications.
[00120] The system (100) is able to transmit and receive multiple signals of wideband frequency through the antenna. Also, the system (100) can overcome interference of signals during transmission and reception of wideband spectrum of frequencies.
[00121] The system (100) may transmit and receive multiple frequency signals in all directions in three-dimensional space. The system (100) is able to provide uniform omnidirectional gain in three dimensions.
[00122] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously, many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the present invention best and its practical application, to thereby enabling others skilled in the art to best utilize the present invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omission and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but such are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the scope of the claims of the present invention.
, Claims:We Claim:
1. A system (100) for configurable signal transmission and reception, the system (100) comprising:
a substrate (110) having a spherical geometry;
a plurality of conductive segments (120) disposed on the substrate (110), the segments (120) forming a grid of intersecting elements, wherein the grid is configurable to function as an antenna (125);
a plurality of switching elements (130) operatively connected to the conductive segments (120), the switching elements (130) configured to selectively connect or disconnect adjacent conductive segments (120) to dynamically reconfigure the antenna (125);
a control network (140) operatively connected to the plurality of switching elements (130), the control network (140) adapted to configure connections among the plurality of conductive segments (120) to form varying antenna (125) geometries;
a controller (150) operatively connected to the control network (140), the controller (150) is configured to control the antenna (125) geometry to support one or more frequency bands for transmission or reception; and
a radio module (160) operatively connected to the controller (150), configured to process signals transmitted or received by the antenna (125).
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the conductive segments (120) are arranged in a grid pattern with predetermined lengths, each segment having a length proportional to a fraction of the wavelength corresponding to the operating frequency.
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the conductive segments (120) are made from a material selected from the group consisting of copper, nickel, silver, and gold-plated copper.
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the switching elements (130) includes analog switches arranged at intersections of the conductive segments (120), each analog switch being configured to selectively connect or disconnect adjacent segments in response to control signals.
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the analog switches are operatively controlled to form continuous conductive paths by connecting multiple segments, thereby adjusting the effective electrical length of the conductive segments (120).
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control network (140) includes an analog switch multiplexer network configured to selectively activate or deactivate specific switching elements (130) to form one or more antenna (125) configurations.
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the control network (140) is configured to support simultaneous reconfiguration of multiple groups of conductive segments (120) to enable multi-frequency operation.
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the control network (140) interfaces with the controller (150) to adjust antenna (125) configurations based on operational parameters such as frequency bands and signal coverage requirements.
9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller (150) is configured to generate control signals for the control network (140) to dynamically modify the interconnections among the conductive segments (120), and adjust the antenna (125) geometry to support operation across one or more frequency bands.
10. The system (100) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the controller (150) is further configured to modify directivity characteristics of the antenna (125), including omnidirectional and directional beam patterns, based on operational parameters or commands provided to the system (100).
11. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the radio module (160) is configured to process signals transmitted or received by the antenna (125) in multiple frequency bands simultaneously, wherein the radio module (160) includes a software-defined radio (SDR) that commands the controller (150) to adjust the antenna (125) geometry to match specific frequency bands during operation.
12. The system (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the radio module (160) processes signals from conductive segments (120) of varying lengths and orientations, enabling wideband reception and transmission, wherein the radio module (160) is configured to utilize the antenna (125) to populate a spectrum signature for radio navigation or situational awareness applications.
13. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) further includes a programmable radio frequency (RF) splitter/combiner operatively coupled to the radio module (160), the splitter/combiner configured to distribute signals across distinct antenna (125) configurations during transmission and to combine received signals during reception.
14. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the substrate (110) is composed of a flexible polymer selected from the group consisting of polyester, polyimide, and nylon.
15. A method for configurable signal transmission and reception, the method comprising the steps of:
providing a substrate (110) with a plurality of conductive segments (120) disposed in a grid pattern;
selectively connecting or disconnecting adjacent conductive segments (120) within the grid using a plurality of switching elements (130), wherein the grid is configurable to function as an antenna (125);
controlling the switching elements (130) using a control network (140) to dynamically modify the geometry of the antenna (125) formed by the connected conductive segments (120);
configuring a controller (150) to adjust the effective electrical length of the conductive segments (120) to operate within one or more frequency bands, and to modify the directivity of the antenna (125) for directional or omnidirectional signal transmission or reception; and operating a radio module (160) communicatively connected to the controller (150), wherein the radio module (160) is configured to send commands to the controller (150) to modify the antenna (125) configuration for specific frequency bands or directivity modes, and process signals transmitted or received by the antenna (125) across one or more configured frequency bands.
16. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the control network (140) includes an analog switch multiplexer configured to manage the connection of the conductive segments (120),
17. The method as claimed in claim 15, the electrical length of the conductive segments (120) is dynamically altered through control network (140) and controller (150) to form different antenna (125) geometries.
18. The method as claimed in claim 15, further comprising dynamically reconfiguring the antenna (125) to enable simultaneous transmission or reception across multiple frequency bands.
19. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the conductive segments (120) are selectively activated to form a directional beam for focused signal transmission or reception.
20. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the controller (150) operates in a frequency-hopping mode to dynamically change operating frequencies across multiple bands.
21. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein the radio module (160) is a software-defined radio configured to dynamically adjust its frequency band of operation based on user input.