Dual antenna tracking in LEO and MEO satcom
US9711850B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 8, 2015 |
| Grant date | Jul 18, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 8, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01Q21/28
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Control of dual (two) antennas, for satellite communications (satcom) with satellites in one or more constellations in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Medium Earth Orbit (MEO). The dual antennas are typically part of a ground-based antenna system, in particular using the Satrack single pedestal with split antenna design, housed efficiently under a compact radome. Features simultaneous pointing toward two separate satellites during the satellites' handover/switching periods with instantaneous transition between the satcom modems for assuring real-time, continuous data communication over a LEO/MEO satellite link. The dual (two) antennas system can also be used in a “monopulse/electronic scan” mode where a first antenna is used for tracking according to ephemeris data, while a second antenna on the same pedestal will scan for offset/compensation to the first antenna path.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.