In Different Planes Patents (Class 343/765)
  • Patent number: 9793602
    Abstract: Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of multiband MIMO vehicular antenna assemblies. In an exemplary embodiment, a multiband MIMO vehicular antenna assembly generally includes a chassis and an outer cover or radome. The outer cover is coupled to the chassis such that an interior enclosure is collectively defined by the outer cover and the chassis. An antenna carrier or inner radome is within the interior enclosure. The antenna carrier has inner and outer surfaces spaced apart from the chassis and the outer cover. One or more antenna elements are along and/or in conformance with the outer surface of the antenna carrier so as to generally follow the contour of a corresponding portion of the antenna carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: Laird Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mehran Aminzadeh, Ahmed Ameri, Jens Gallhoff, Ulrich Steinkamp
  • Patent number: 9711850
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: ORBIT COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS LTD
    Inventors: Guy Naym, Hanan Keren, Michael Greenspan, Azriel Yakubovitch, Miron Voin, Stav Gizunterman
  • Patent number: 9705177
    Abstract: Antenna mount systems and methods for deploying small cells are disclosed. The antenna mount system may include an outer housing and an inner antenna enclosure at least partly positioned inside the outer housing, with the inner antenna enclosure movably coupled to the outer housing. The antenna mount system can include an orientation member that can aid in maintaining a particular orientation of an antenna so as to maintain a radiation pattern substantially on a defined area, independent of the position of the antenna mount system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: Sprint Communications Company L.P.
    Inventors: Patrick Jacob Schmidt, Wilbur E. Hill, Chaitanya Chukka, Andrew Mark Wurtenberger
  • Patent number: 9660320
    Abstract: A reflector dish assembly including a support structure, a reflector dish, and a reflector bracket configured for mounting the reflector dish. A support arm supports an electronic device and an elbow bracket is configured for coupling with an end of the support arm. A seat section of the elbow bracket is configured for engaging with the reflector bracket for securing the support arm in relation to the reflector dish. The reflector bracket includes a seat to receive the elbow bracket seat section, with the seat having bosses and support tabs spaced linearly from the bosses. The elbow bracket seat section includes guide slots configured for sliding over the bosses when the seat receives the seat section. The elbow bracket seat section includes support slots for receiving the support tabs of the reflector bracket seat and securing the guide slots with the bosses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: Highlands Diversified Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michelle Hamm, Jeff Lester
  • Patent number: 9630326
    Abstract: A controlled relative motion system includes a base support and a manipulable support. A plurality of lower link members are pivotally coupled to the base support, and each includes a spherical section capture opening. A plurality of upper link members are rotatably coupled to the lower link members via spherical joints at the spherical section capture openings. The manipulable support is pivotally coupled to the plurality of upper link members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Ross-Hime Designs, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark E. Rosheim
  • Patent number: 9622028
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to methods and arrangements for positioning of a communication device (102, 202, 208, 402, 502) in a communication system. Based on received radio channel information from a positioning server (112, 212, 408, 508), positioning nodes (104a-d, 204, 206, 410, 412, 510) identify (S-430, S-538, 704) a radio signal from said communication device, measure (S-432, S-433, S-540, 706) the strength of said received signal and sends (S-434, S-435, S-542, 708) signal strength information and position information of the positioning nodes to said positioning server. The positioning server then determines (S-436, S-544, 610) the position of the communication devices based on the received signal strength measurements and the position information of the positioning nodes. High accuracy in-door positioning of communication devices is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET L M ERICSSON
    Inventors: Tobias Söderlund, Anna Bondesson, Sebastian Elmgren, Peter Håkansson, Henning Jörgensen
  • Patent number: 9601822
    Abstract: An antenna for satellite communication includes; a signal transmitting and receiving unit for receiving or transmitting a signal from/to the satellite; a driving unit for rotating the signal transmitting and receiving unit so as to enable the signal transmitting and receiving unit to track the satellite; an anti-vibration unit provided inside the posts for elastically supporting the signal transmitting and receiving unit or the driving unit. Therefore, by providing the anti-vibration unit inside the posts, it is possible to increase availability for a circumferential space of the posts and to simplify the structure of the anti-vibration unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: INTELLIAN TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Inventors: Min Son Son, Geun Ho Choi, A Ruem Han
  • Patent number: 9543646
    Abstract: An antenna control device includes a direction acquirer to acquire a target direction in which a target object to be tracked exists, a coordinate converter to perform conversion into an Y-coordinate which is an angle between the target direction and a plane containing both the zenith direction and a Y-axis fixed horizontally within a rotation range of the vertical axis, and into a X-coordinate which is an angle between the zenith direction and a projection of the target direction projected onto the plane. A drive command value arithmetic processor commands a vertical axis angle value obtained by multiplying the Y-coordinate by a coefficient. The arithmetic processor calculates the command value for each of the horizontal axis and the cross horizontal axis such that difference between the pointing direction of the antenna and the target direction is less than or equal to an allowable value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Koji Yoshida, Naoya Uego, Yuji Sakai, Masanobu Horimoto
  • Patent number: 9531851
    Abstract: An improved modular adjusting device, in particular for RF devices, is distinguished, inter alia, by the following features: —having at least one transmission base module (113) and at least two transmission elements (17; 29, 31), —the at least one transmission base module (113) also has at least one second transmission element (31) and an associated snap-action and/or latching device (16), —the at least one second transmission element (31) is held and secured in a snap-in manner by the associated snap-action and/or latching device (16), —the snap-action and/or latching device (16) for holding and securing the at least one second transmission element (31) is designed in such a manner that the at least one second transmission element (31) is held in a manner limited by stops in the axial direction (X), and—the first and second transmission elements (29, 31) each have a plug-in coupling region (21) in which the shaft (13) or one of the shaft sections (13.1, 13.2, 13.3, 13.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: KATHREIN-WERKE KG
    Inventor: Ralf Häntsch
  • Patent number: 9499953
    Abstract: A system for installing an array of pilings for an array of solar panels is highly accurate and efficient. The system includes a horizontal laser and a rotating vertical laser that are mounted on a first piling and aligned with a target on a second piling on the opposite side of the array. An alignment template is placed against a piling and aligned with the vertical rotating laser. The aligned template provides a designated location where the next piling is driven. A hammer target on the pile driver allows the installer to precisely install the next piling. After installation, the next piling is measured for accuracy and if errors are found, an alignment bracket is used to correct the error. The process is repeated until the array of pilings is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: LaserLine Mfg., Inc.
    Inventor: Rick Grover
  • Patent number: 9426512
    Abstract: An aircraft in-flight entertainment (IFE) system for an aircraft includes a radome to be carried by the aircraft, and a dual-beam satellite antenna and at least one positioner coupled thereto to be carried by the aircraft and protected by the radome. The dual-beam satellite antenna is to generate dual antenna beams for television programming and Internet data from respective spaced apart satellites. The dual-beam satellite antenna includes a first aperture for receiving the television programming, and a second aperture adjacent the first aperture for receiving the Internet data. A television programming distribution system is to be carried by the aircraft and coupled to the dual-beam satellite antenna to provide television programming within the aircraft. At least one access point is to be carried by the aircraft and coupled to the dual-beam satellite antenna to provide a wireless local area network (WLAN) within the aircraft for the Internet data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Assignee: LIVETV, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Frisco, Michael J. Lynch, Brian D. Anderson, Robert M. Keen
  • Patent number: 9322913
    Abstract: A transportable weather radar, including radar electronics functionally located above the elevational joint, a frame superstructure rotationally connected to an elevational assembly supporting the elevational joint, a rotational drive assembly mounted below and supporting the elevational assembly, and at least one harmonic drive for positioning the radar antenna. The radar includes a fiber optic rotary joint positioned above a slip ring assembly which is positioned within a lower portion of the elevational assembly so that as the elevational assembly rotates a fiber optic cable connected to the lower end of the fiber optic rotary joint is stationary relative to the rotating elevational assembly. The slip ring assembly permits electrical signals to traverse through traditional metal cables from the pedestal to the frame superstructure where electronics are held.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Enterprise Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Bruce Knight, John Charles Fanning, James Rogers Helvin, Mark Alan Jones, Norman Edwin Lawrence, III, Damon Schmidt
  • Patent number: 9322912
    Abstract: A transportable weather radar having radar electronics functionally located above the elevational joint and a frame superstructure rotationally connected to the elevational joint onto which is mounted a parabolic radar antenna adapted for Doppler weather radar use. The radar has a rotational drive assembly mounted below and supporting the elevational joint and a harmonic drive unit positioned inside the elevational joint so that the antennae may be rotated without significant backlash during rotational changes. A hollow center in the rotational joint allows for the passing of electronics cable through the middle of the joint and down through rotating assemblies and to electronics in or adjacent to the radar pedestal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Enterprise Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Bruce Knight, John Charles Fanning, James Rogers Helvin, Mark Alan Jones, Norman Edwin Lawrence, III, Damon Schmidt
  • Patent number: 9300039
    Abstract: A positioner for an antenna intended to be placed in a given or restricted volume comprises: a first axis A? ensuring the movement of the antenna in azimuth, a third axis A? ensuring the movement of the antenna in elevation, said third axis A? being orthogonal and coplanar to the first axis A?, and a second axis of rotation A? or cross-elevation axis positioned so as to intersect said first axis A? and said third axis A? at one and the same virtual point O, said virtual point O of intersection of the three axes A?, A?, A? constituting the pivot point of the movements of said antenna mounted on the positioner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Assignees: THALES, ACC INGENIERIE ET MAINTENANCE
    Inventors: Dominique Conti, Gwenaël Tor, Philippe Desgardin, Alain Bonnet
  • Patent number: 9263797
    Abstract: A system comprises a base having a sensor support frame moveably mounted thereto such that the support frame is pivotal about at least two axes with respect to a pivot point. A sensor is coupled to the support frame. At least one actuator is provided for pivoting the support frame about the pivot point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Richard R. Hall, Peter M. Nichols
  • Patent number: 9083072
    Abstract: An antenna mount for adjusting the azimuth, elevation, and/or skew alignments of an antenna. The mount has a basic gearbox drive including a worm gear and worm wheel with interchangeable arcuate members that can be inserted in the basic drive design to customize it for azimuth, elevation, and/or skew adjustments. The arcuate member for azimuth adjustments permits the gearbox drive to rotate the attached antenna more than 360 degrees and provides two hard stop positions about 400 degrees from each other for reference points for the search routine and to prevent undue twisting of any attached, exterior wiring. Replacing the azimuth arcuate member with a modified or second arcuate member reduces the rotational movement (e.g., to 20 degrees) making the gearbox drive more suitable for elevation adjustments. Similarly, a third gearbox drive can be provided with a third arcuate member with more of a middle range of movement (e.g., 90-180 degrees) suitable for skew adjustments of the antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: Winegard Company
    Inventors: Timothy John Conrad, Joshua Richard Gallerick
  • Patent number: 9000995
    Abstract: A rotationally-stabilizing tracking antenna system includes a three-axis pedestal, a drive assembly rotating a vertical support assembly relative to a base assembly, a cross-level driver pivoting a cross-level frame assembly relative to the vertical support assembly, and an elevation driver pivoting an elevation frame assembly relative to the cross-level frame assembly, a motion platform assembly affixed to the elevation frame assembly, three orthogonally mounted angular rate sensors disposed on the motion platform assembly sensing motion about X, Y and Z axes, a three-axis gravity accelerometer mounted on the motion platform assembly to determine a true-gravity zero reference, and a control unit determining the actual position of elevation frame assembly based upon sensed motion about X, Y, and Z axes and the true-gravity zero reference, and controlling the azimuth, cross-level and elevation drivers to position the elevation frame assembly in a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Sea Tel, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Blaney
  • Patent number: 8989289
    Abstract: A method and system for transmitting three distinct electromagnetic signals on a same frequency are provided. One or more transmitting devices transmit a first data signal and an inverse of the first data signal in two orthogonal linear polarities of an antenna maintaining their inverted phase relationship and a same amplitude as propagated. Transmitting devices also transmit a second data signal in a linear polarity with a 45 degree rotation around the transmit axis of the first data signal. Transmitting devices also transmit a third data signal in linear polarity orthogonal to the second data signal and consequently 315 degree rotation around the transmit axis from the first data signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Inventor: Nigel Iain Stuart Macrae
  • Patent number: 8982004
    Abstract: A method and system for aligning an antenna reflector with satellites in a satellite configuration. A method in accordance with the present invention comprises pointing the reflector to a position along an orbital arc used in the satellite configuration, commanding a Single Wire Multiswitch circuits which is coupled to the reflector of the antenna to output a signal from at least one satellite at the orbital slot, and adjusting the reflector to maximize reception of the signal from the orbital slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Santoru, John L. Norin, Dipak M. Shah, Gustave R. Stroes, David J. Kuether, Shamik Maitra, Benjamin Mui, Ernest C. Chen
  • Publication number: 20140266943
    Abstract: A polarization adjustment assembly for a reflector antenna is provided with a radio bracket with a mounting flange. The mounting flange is coupled to a hub provided with a stop portion. Fasteners couple the radio bracket to the hub via slots in the mounting flange, rotatable with respect to the hub within the extents of the slots. An adjustment bolt passes through a boss coupled to the mounting flange. The adjustment bolt abuts the stop portion, whereby longitudinal displacement of the adjustment bolt with respect to the boss rotates the radio bracket with respect to the hub. Alternatively, the positions of the boss and stop portion on the mounting flange and hub may be exchanged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: ANDREW LLC
    Inventors: Alexander Peter Thomson, Christopher D. Hills, Claudio Biancotto
  • Patent number: 8836597
    Abstract: An antenna radome assembly has a radome base and an annular stationary bearing plate attached to and spaced from the radome base. A rotary joint has a fixed portion attached to the stationary bearing plate and a rotating portion extending through a central opening of the stationary bearing plate. A rotating platform is attached to the rotating portion of the rotary joint. The rotating platform includes a circular recess extending into the rotating platform from a first side. The stationary bearing plate is disposed completely within the circular recess. An annular bearing assembly is disposed within the circular recess between the rotating platform and the stationary bearing plate. The bearing assembly is in contact with the rotating platform and the stationary bearing plate, and the rotating platform rotates with respect to the stationary bearing plate and the radome base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Paul J. Vizzio, David J. Bamford, Douglas A. Sasko
  • Publication number: 20140225768
    Abstract: Systems and methods for optimizing low profile SATCOM antenna panels affixed to a moving vehicle. An elongated SATCOM antenna panel has a narrow azimuth beam optionally having a typical width of no more than a 2-degree angle while the SATCOM antenna panel is maintained parallel to the motion trajectory of a carrying vehicle. An actuation unit rotates the SATCOM antenna panel about three orthogonal axes: a longitudinal axis (Roll rotation), a vertical axis (Yaw rotation) and a lateral axis (Elevation rotation). The actuation unit actuates the antenna panel so it is maintained aligned with the Earth's equatorial plane and the narrow azimuth beam optionally having a typical width of no more than 2-degree angle eliminates adjacent satellite illumination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: Panasonic Avionics Corporation
    Inventors: Benjamin Engel, Brinder Bhatia
  • Publication number: 20140218249
    Abstract: A method of adjusting at least one cellular communications antenna mounted on an antenna structure, wherein the antenna, and/or direction of the radiation pattern of the antenna, is movable relative to the antenna structure, the method comprising the steps: determining or retrieving current position values of the antenna, and/or direction of the radiation pattern of the antenna, in first, second and third dimensions; receiving a desired position value for the antenna, and/or direction of the radiation pattern of the antenna, in the first dimension relating to a desired position of the antenna; determining a new position value for the antenna, and/or direction of the radiation pattern, of the antenna in the second dimension based on required movement of the antenna, and/or direction of the radiation pattern of the antenna, relative to the antenna structure to reach the desired position value in the first dimension; determining a new position value for the antenna, and/or direction of the radiation pattern of t
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: FASMETRICS S.A.
    Inventor: Dimitris Kolokotronis
  • Patent number: 8681065
    Abstract: The parabolic antenna positioner includes a base, a support cradle mounted so it can rotate relative to the base along a first axis of rotation, a mobile assembly including a parabolic antenna, supported by the support cradle, and mounted so it can rotate relative to the support cradle along a second axis of rotation, orthogonal to the first axis of rotation. The second axis of rotation is separated from the axis of rotation of the support cradle by a non-null distance measured in the plane of rotation of the cradle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Thales
    Inventors: Benoit Vion, Sandrine Jourda, Christophe Laffont, Gilles Quagliaro
  • Patent number: 8638264
    Abstract: A radar antenna system comprises a base. A center support is coupled to the base on a first end. A radar array is pivotally coupled to a second end of the center support. At least two actuators are provided for pivoting the radar array about the center support, altering its azimuth position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: Richard R. Hall
  • Patent number: 8634764
    Abstract: The invention relates to a repeater system (1) for relaying the exchanges between a base station mobile telecommunication network and a user terminal, comprising an outside antenna (10) that can communicate with the base station, as well as retransmission means (20) connected to the outside antenna, wherein the retransmission means (20) are designed to act as the interface between the outside antenna (10) and an inside antenna (30) that can communicate with the user terminal to retransmit the signals received by either one of the antennae destined for the other antenna, characterized in that the outside antenna is an optically transparent planar antenna integrated into an optically transparent panel (2) used for the indoor lighting of a building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Bouygues Telecom
    Inventors: Eduardo Motta Cruz, Vincent Hayart, Mohamed Himdi, Franck Colombel, Jean-Philippe Dessarce
  • Patent number: 8605807
    Abstract: A method and system for transmitting electromagnetic signals are provided. Data signals including a first data signal conveying first data, a second data signal conveying second data, and a third data signal conveying third data are provided. One or more transmitting devices transmit the first data signal and an inverse of the first data signal in two orthogonal linear polarities of an antenna maintaining their inverted phase relationship as propagated. Transmitting devices also transmit the second data signal in a linear polarity with a 45 degree rotation around a transmit axis of the first data signal. Transmitting devices also transmit the third data signal in a linear polarity orthogonally from the second data signal and consequently ±45 degrees from the first data signals. One or more receiving stations receive the transmitted first data signal, the inverse of the first data signal, the second data signal and the third data signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: Nigel Iain Stuart Macrae
  • Publication number: 20130321225
    Abstract: A wireless backhaul system including a terminal is disclosed. The system includes a network interface that is configured to send and receive data over a wide area network. A control module is coupled to the network interface and configured to generate electromagnetic energy. An antenna assembly is coupled to the control module and the network interface. The antenna assembly includes a high speed-high bandwidth (HSHB) antenna configured to wirelessly emit millimeter wave electromagnetic energy signals to a target terminal. A gimbal assembly is coupled to the antenna assembly and the control module. The gimbal assembly is configured to selectively position the antenna assembly to azimuth and elevation coordinates selected by the control module to establish and maintain a HSHB data communication link with the target terminal using the millimeter wave electromagnetic energy signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Gregory PETTUS
  • Patent number: 8576134
    Abstract: A rotary casing of a satellite antenna having an angle adjustable display screen includes a supporting arm, a hollow casing, a rotating means and an adjusting and controlling assembly. The casing has a panel provided with two keys and a top surface provided with a window. The rotating means is provided in the casing and controlled by the keys to drive the rotation of the supporting arm. The adjusting and controlling assembly is provided in the casing and includes a control unit and a display unit. The two keys are electrically connected to the control unit to drive the supporting arm. By this arrangement, the control unit receives an adjustment instruction inputted by the keys and transmits the instruction to the rotating means to generate a corresponding amount of rotation, while the control unit converts the instruction into a numerical value to be displayed on the display unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Timotion Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hung-Wei Lan
  • Patent number: 8542156
    Abstract: A pedestal for tracking antenna includes a horizontal isolation assembly dimensioned and configured to isolate the support plate from horizontal vibration and shock of the base ring, a hub assembly including a support mounted on the horizontal isolation assembly rotatably supporting a rotating frame about a first azimuth axis, a vertical isolation assembly including an upright frame and a cross-level axis support slidably interconnected with a linear bearing assembly, the linear bearing assembly having a profiled rail slidably received within a complementary shaped bearing block, wherein the profiled rail can not twist axially relative to the bearing block, a cross-level frame pivotally mounted on the cross-level axis support about a second cross-level axis, and/or an elevation frame assembly supporting the tracking antenna and pivotally mounted on the cross-level frame about a third elevation axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Sea Tel, Inc.
    Inventor: Trushar D. Patel
  • Patent number: 8471779
    Abstract: A remote control for a wireless control system includes a controller, at least one actuator for operating the controller, a radio-frequency (RF) transmitter coupled to the controller, an antenna coupled to the RF transmitter, and a housing for the controller, the RF transmitter, the antenna and a power source. The antenna comprises a conductive loop mounted in the housing and being disposed in a first plane. The remote control further comprises a surface on the housing disposed in a second plane substantially parallel to and overlying the first plane. The surface has a conductive material disposed thereon substantially coplanar with the second plane and substantially coextensive with said conductive loop on said first plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Donald R. Mosebrook
  • Patent number: 8462066
    Abstract: A unitized device and method to optimize directional antenna alignment for long-distance communications using the low-cost IEEE 802.11 (and related) compatible RF-chipsets (originally designed for short range Wireless-LAN and Wireless-PAN networks). The device combines these chipsets, along with a microprocessor, software, electronics to drive a directional antenna, and the motors and gearing necessary to physically move a directional antenna, into a unitized low weight, and low cost assembly designed to enable reliable digital radio links of many miles or more to be established with minimal costs, time, and installer skill. In one embodiment, the software methods incorporated into the software of this unitized device can include methods necessary to automatically or semi-automatically configure and align the directional antenna to one or more distant target sources. Various mechanical designs, as well as various software and electronics methods, are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventor: Rammohan Malasani
  • Patent number: 8446327
    Abstract: A two-way terrestrial antenna, employing electrical down tilt and azimuth beam adjustment capability is disclosed. Such antenna configuration allows for a variable antenna coverage footprint within designated coverage sector. To compensate for installation support structure variations the two-way antenna employs a positional sensor that can provide feedback to BTS or automatically compensate azimuth and tilt beam angles so as to provide uniform sector coverage. In particular by monitoring tri-vector gravitational inclinometer and earth magnetic field sensors, and determining correction factors for antenna tilt and azimuth beam adjustments, uniform or compensated sector coverage is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Powerwave Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Bill Vassilakis, Nikolai Maslennikov, Alexander Rabinovich
  • Patent number: 8436779
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus operable to align an antenna and to retain the antenna in a reference position during alignment of the antenna. The apparatus may include a bracket having an arm attached thereto, and the arm conforms to the back wall of an antenna. An engagement means and/or securing means may be incorporated in the apparatus to retain the position of the antenna in a fixed or removeable connection with the apparatus. An alignment device being operable to align the antenna may be attached to the bracket. The apparatus of the present invention may be arranged or otherwise positioned in accordance with a reference position. Said reference position may be defined as a position that is selected in reference to a reference point, line, or plane of the antenna. The apparatus may retain the antenna in a reference position during alignment of the antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventors: Bruce Kenneth Clifford, Mark Frischman
  • Patent number: 8362964
    Abstract: An auxiliary device for adjusting an antenna angle includes: an inputting unit, configured to input preset angle information of an antenna; a sensing unit, configured to perform sensing and obtain angle information of the antenna; a processing unit, configured to compare the angle information of the antenna with the preset angle information of the antenna according to the angle information of the antenna and the preset angle information of the antenna, and control a prompting unit to send a prompt when the angle information of the antenna is consistent with the preset angle information of the antenna; and the prompting unit, configured to send the prompt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Youhe Ke, Tiesheng Zhang, Maosheng Huang, Haifeng Wang
  • Patent number: 8330661
    Abstract: Provided is a system and method for measuring an antenna radiation pattern in a Fresnel region based on a phi-variation method. The system includes a rotator for changing angles of a reference antenna and a target antenna; a vector network analyzer for obtaining radiation pattern data in accordance with transmission/reception radio frequency (RF) signals between the reference antenna and the target antenna; a measurement unit for calculating a far-field radiation pattern based on the radiation pattern data received from the vector network analyzer; and a controller for controlling the rotator according to a measurement angle transmitted from the measurement unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: Soon-Soo Oh, Yong-Hee Cho, Je-Hoon Yun, Joung-Myoun Kim, Jung-Ick Moon
  • Patent number: 8319696
    Abstract: A positioning system for a spherical object which adjusts orientation thereof in azimuth and elevation comprising first and second drive rods threadably engaged with respective first and second brackets secured to the surfaces of opposing left and right hemispheres the object The first and second drive rods include a first coupling configured for imparting co-rotation to the drive rods and a second coupling configured for imparting counter-rotation to the drive rods, and a clutch for selecting operation of either coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: GATR Technologies
    Inventors: William R. Clayton, Paul A. Gierow
  • Patent number: 8315557
    Abstract: An antenna assembly includes a reflector having a focal plane, a first feed element located along the focal plane that illuminates the reflector to create a first contour beam at a first frequency and a second feed element located further from the reflector than the first feed element that illuminates the reflector to create a first spot beam at a second frequency, the second frequency being different than the first frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Sudhakar Rao, Jim Wang, Chih-Chien Hsu
  • Publication number: 20120280875
    Abstract: The present invention provides a high-performance and small sized helical antenna element and array thereof for use in an aircraft communication system or the like, where stringent spatial restrictions and gain requirements generally apply. The performance of the array is enhanced by increasing the lateral distances between the antenna elements over a portion of the elements where the windings thereof have high current amplitude. The sweeping envelope of the array is maintained small by recovering the initial distancing over a portion of the elements where the windings thereof have low current amplitude.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Applicant: EMS TECHNOLOGIES CANADA, LTD.
    Inventors: Colin Sutherland, Peter John Wood, Peter C. Strickland
  • Patent number: 8305279
    Abstract: A three-axis antenna positioner has an X-Y over azimuth configuration, and includes an azimuth drive assembly, an X-axis drive assembly, and a Y-axis drive assembly. Each drive assembly is independently operable. The azimuth drive assembly imparts 540° azimuthal rotational motion to an antenna about an azimuth axis. The X-axis drive assembly rotates the antenna about a horizontal X-axis at elevation angles between ?90° and +90°. The Y-axis drive assembly rotates the antenna about a Y-axis at elevation complement angles between ?2° and +105°. The azimuth axis, the X-axis, and the Y-axis all intersect at a common intersection point, and are mutually orthogonal. A controller operates each drive assembly so as to minimize antenna tracking velocity and acceleration. Each drive assembly may include dual drives, and may be operated in a bias drive mode to substantially eliminate backlash.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventors: Theodore Young, Stephen W. White, Kevin B. Davis, Joseph H. Fahle, Jeffrey S. Hertig, Richard T. Van Pelt, Earl K. Jones, John L. Schaumann, Cary C. Bedford
  • Publication number: 20120274520
    Abstract: A positioner for an antenna intended to be placed in a given or restricted volume comprises: a first axis A? ensuring the movement of the antenna in azimuth, a third axis A? ensuring the movement of the antenna in elevation, said third axis A? being orthogonal and coplanar to the first axis A?, and a second axis of rotation A? or cross-elevation axis positioned so as to intersect said first axis A? and said third axis A? at one and the same virtual point O, said virtual point O of intersection of the three axes A?, A?, A? constituting the pivot point of the movements of said antenna mounted on the positioner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicants: ACC INGENIERIE ET MAINTENANCE, THALES
    Inventors: Dominique CONTI, Gwenael TOR, Philippe DESGARDIN, Alain BONNET
  • Patent number: 8299969
    Abstract: A multiband antenna includes a radio unit and a base circuit board. The radio unit includes a first radio member and a second radio member connected to the first radio member. The first radio member and the second radio member have similar shapes and sizes to each other and are aligned with each other. The base circuit board is connected to the second radio member to provide feed signals to the radio unit and connect the radio unit to the ground. The first radio member independently sends/receives wireless signals at a first frequency, and the second radio member is coupled with the first radio member, thereby cooperating with the first radio member to send/receive wireless signals at a second working frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: FIH (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Hao-Ying Chang, Yi-Hsien Weng, Cheng-Ang Lee
  • Patent number: 8284112
    Abstract: A method of determining a current orientation of an antenna compared to a desired orientation is presented. In the method, current orientation data indicating a current orientation of the antenna is generated in circuitry mounted to the antenna. Data indicating a desired orientation for the antenna at the geographical location of the antenna is received. The desired orientation data is compared with the current orientation data. Based on this comparison, alignment information is generated which indicates whether the current orientation of the antenna aligns with the desired orientation of the antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: EchoStar Technologies L.L.C.
    Inventors: Troy Otto, Harold Jaramillo, Joseph E. Tomko
  • Patent number: 8248318
    Abstract: A small antenna system for communications on-the-move (“COTM”) with a geostationary or geosynchronous satellite to and from a land mobile, maritime or airborne vehicle is disclosed. The antenna system provides a robust and simple means of establishing communications with a satellite or remote computer device. Further embodiments of systems and methods of the various aspects of the present invention mitigate RF losses customary in existing horn antennas. Embodiments also facilitate COTM by utilizing novel antenna configurations that tightly integrate RF electronics while dissipating generated heat via an antenna compartment that may be designed to function as or be used in conjunction with a heat sink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: OverHorizon (Cyprus) PLC
    Inventors: Per Wahlberg, Kennet Lejnell
  • Patent number: 8232929
    Abstract: A microwave antenna for wireless interconnection of automation devices has a first printed circuit board, on which a first conductor loop is arranged as a printed conductor track. A second printed circuit board having a second conductor loop in the form of a printed conductor track is arranged transversely with respect to the first printed circuit board. The second printed circuit board is attached to the first printed circuit board. The conductor loops are connected to a common feed connection. A bypass line connects one end of each the first and the second conductor loops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Pilz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Alois Ineichen, Thorsten Godau
  • Patent number: 8228253
    Abstract: An antenna for communicating with a satellite from a moving vehicle. The antenna comprises a transmitter for generating a transmission signal, main and sub reflectors, and a waveguide associated with the transmitter for conducting the transmission signal toward the sub reflector. The sub reflector is configured for redirecting the transmission signal toward the main reflector; the main reflector is configured for projecting the redirected transmission signal as an antenna beam toward the satellite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Mobile Sat Ltd.
    Inventor: Zacharia Berejik
  • Patent number: 8217848
    Abstract: RET antenna with motor and clutch assembly that is operative to mechanically disengage the DC motor and drive unit (also called the gear-motor unit) from the phase shifter adjustment shaft during a manual tilt operation. Disengaging the gear-motor unit removes the drag of the motor and the high gear ratio gear box from the phase shifter control rod making it easier to manually turn the phase shifter control knob. In addition, the clutch disengages the gear-motor without disengaging the position detector from the phase shifter control rod so that position calibration is not lost during manual tilt adjustment. When the manual tilt operation is completed, the mechanical tilt clutch enables the gear-motor unit to be reliably re-engaged with the phase shifter control rod for motorized electrical tilt operation without having to re-calibrate the position detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Amphenol Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory Girard, Frank Soulie, Eric Proteau, Anthony Pallone
  • Patent number: 8199061
    Abstract: A thermal compensating subreflector tracking assembly for a reflector antenna and methods of use. The subreflector tracking assembly provided with a base, an intermediate support and a subreflector mount. The intermediate support coupled to the base, movable normal to the base and the subreflector mount coupled to the intermediate support, movable orthogonal to the intermediate support. The movement in the Z, Y and or Z-axis enabling electrical performance optimizing reflector antenna beam alignment and/or focus adjustments resulting from asymmetric thermal distortion of the reflector antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: ASC Signal Corporation
    Inventors: Joe Bennett Tolleson, Jr., Danieal Alan Beal
  • Patent number: 8184059
    Abstract: Gimbal power systems and methods are operable to provide power to a device attached to the gimbal. An exemplary embodiment is configured to rotate a rotational member of the gimbal system about an axis, wherein a stator of a rotary power transformer affixed to the rotational member rotates about the axis, and wherein an end of an electrical connection coupled to a power connector of a rotor winding of the rotary power transformer remains substantially stationary as the stator of the rotary power transformer rotates about the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Brian P. Bunch, Steve Mowry, Paul Ferguson
  • Patent number: 8159411
    Abstract: In one aspect, a rotary connector having a longitudinal axis includes a first metal portion including a groove about the longitudinal axis. The rotary connector also includes a second metal portion and a spring disposed in the groove and having metal contact with the first portion and the second portion. One of the first metal portion or the second metal portion is configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis and the other of the first metal portion or the second metal portion is configured to remain substantially rotationally fixed with respect to the longitudinal axis. The rotary connector may be used for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding with antenna pedestals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Robert L. Welsh, Stacy E. Davis, Timothy R. Hebert