Portable antenna positioner apparatus and method
US8068062B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 7, 2011 |
| Grant date | Nov 29, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 7, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01Q3/08
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A low power, lightweight, collapsible and rugged antenna positioner for use in communicating with geostationary, geosynchronous and low earth orbit satellite. By collapsing, invention may be easily carried or shipped in a compact container. May be used in remote locations with simple or automated setup and orientation. Azimuth is adjusted by rotating an antenna in relation to a positioner base and elevation is adjusted by rotating an elevation motor coupled with the antenna. Manual orientation of antenna for linear polarized satellites yields lower weight and power usage. Updates ephemeris or TLE data via satellite. Algorithms used for search including Clarke Belt fallback, transponder/beacon searching switch, azimuth priority searching and tracking including uneven re-peak scheduling yield lower power usage. Orientation aid via user interface allows for smaller azimuth motor, simplifies wiring and lowers weight. Tilt compensation, bump detection and failure contingency provide robustness.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.