With Signal, Indicator Or Alarm Patents (Class 343/894)
  • Patent number: 12113605
    Abstract: Described techniques and apparatuses relate to determining an attenuation environment surrounding a satellite terminal in a satellite communication system. The satellite terminal may receive signals from an auxiliary satellite system, and determine aspects of an attenuation environment that may affect communications with a communications satellite system. For example, transmissions from an auxiliary satellite system may be associated with a respective location of the transmitting satellite in order to define an attenuation profile for the satellite terminal antenna assembly. Subsequent signals from the auxiliary satellite system may be compared with the attenuation map, and the comparison may be used to identify a diagnostic condition for communications with a communications satellite system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2024
    Assignee: Viasat, Inc.
    Inventors: Ramanamurthy V. Darapu, Ian A. Cleary
  • Patent number: 12046831
    Abstract: A phased array has a plurality of antenna element structures each having a planar surface. The antenna element structures are connected to form a structural array with a planar array surface. A processing device generates a beam having a beam phase at the plurality of antenna element structures, monitors and determines in real time for structural displacement of the plurality of structures, determines a correction, and adjusts the beam phase based on the correction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2024
    Assignee: AST & Science, LLC
    Inventors: Sriram Jayasimha, Huiwen Yao
  • Patent number: 12040553
    Abstract: A phased array has a plurality of antenna element structures each having a planar surface. The antenna element structures are connected to form a structural array with a planar array surface. A processing device generates a beam having a beam phase at the plurality of antenna element structures, monitors and determines in real time for structural displacement of the plurality of structures, determines a correction, and adjusts the beam phase based on the correction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2024
    Assignee: AST & Science, LLC
    Inventors: Sriram Jayasimha, Huiwen Yao
  • Patent number: 11605875
    Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, and systems for two-way satellite communication and an asymmetric-aperture antenna for two-way satellite communication are disclosed. In one embodiment, a beam pattern for an asymmetric-aperture antenna is offset in a narrow beamwidth direction, and the offset beam pattern is directed by a mechanical gimbal, with the beam pattern offset made to reduce interference with an adjacent satellite. In additional embodiments, operational areas near the equator are identified for a given offset beam pattern, or a beam pattern offset may be adjusted over time to compensate for movement of the asymmetric-aperture antenna when attached to an airplane, boat, or other mobile vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Assignee: Viasat, Inc.
    Inventor: David H. Irvine
  • Patent number: 11482769
    Abstract: A sensor based monitoring system (SBMS) for a wireless communications network, a monitoring device for the SBMS, and a SBMS server are provided herein. In one example, the SBMS includes: (1) a monitoring device configured to collect antenna data of an antenna mounted on a communications structure of a wireless communications network and communicate the antenna data over a wireless network, and (2) a SBMS server configured to provide actionable intelligence based on the antenna data and system data of the wireless communications network from at least one other data source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: Verveba Telecom LLC
    Inventors: Gayatri Sirure, Manik Arora, Ameenuddin Habeeb
  • Patent number: 10841813
    Abstract: A device for guiding connection installation to communicatively connect a plurality of radio ports of a base station to a plurality of antennas is provided. The device includes a connector configured to communicate with a first radio port of the plurality of radio ports of the base station. The device further includes a receiver in communication with the connector. The receiver is configured to receive first configuration data that is communicated from the first radio port of the plurality of radio ports. The first configuration data indicating a next connection for the first radio port toward one of the plurality of antennas. The device further includes a display and a processor in communication with the receiver and the display. The processor is configured to cause the first configuration data to be displayed on the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ)
    Inventors: Edwin Vai Hou Iun, Jeevaradchagan Vishnu, Ping Liu
  • Patent number: 10651533
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system includes an antenna disposed on a pole and a beam control unit disposed on the pole and operably coupled to the antenna. The beam control unit includes one or more sensors configured to detect one or more parameters related to tilting or bending of the pole. In addition, the beam control unit is configured to determine a misalignment of an antenna boresight as compared to an initial antenna boresight direction and to re-align the antenna boresight to the initial antenna boresight direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: John Erik Hershey, Michael Joseph Dell'Anno
  • Patent number: 9939478
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides passive radio frequency (RF) detection systems and methods, which may include various exemplary circuit embodiments, a detection device, and methods associated therewith. The passive RF detection systems and methods provide passive detection of emitted RF energy. In an exemplary embodiment, the passive RF detection systems and methods may include fast switching and low forward-voltage drop diodes, a light emitting diode, a resistor, and an antenna, each of which may be disposed within or outside an external housing or packaging. In another exemplary embodiment, the passive RF detection systems and methods may include a push button switch for selective operation. Advantageously, the passive RF detection systems and methods are configured and operate in a completely passive manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Raymond A. Lasten, John H. Bray
  • Patent number: 9002278
    Abstract: Embodiments of a method for tuning the resonant frequency of an antenna in a wireless communication device are disclosed, along with embodiments of a wireless communication device using such a method. Embodiments sense the out-of-band impedance of the antenna, which comprises an antenna element and selectively adjustable impedance disposed between the antenna element and a ground plane of the wireless device, and adjust the selectively adjustable impedance to achieve a desired resonant frequency of the antenna. Embodiments separate an antenna signal into an in-band signal and out-of-band impedance, generate an error signal related to the out-of-band impedance, apply the error signal to a controller circuit configurable to generate an impedance error signal representing the change in antenna impedance, and apply the impedance error signal to the selectively adjustable impedance. Embodiments of a method and electronic circuit for determining the change in impedance of an antenna are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: HTC Corporation
    Inventor: William David Anderson
  • Patent number: 8941546
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a rooftop-mounted off-air television antenna system, device and method including an integrated signal meter. The antenna portion of the device is mounted to the roof of a vehicle. An antenna adjustment mechanism is located inside of the vehicle cabin. The adjustment mechanism enables the user to adjust a position of the antenna on the roof, such as by rotating a dial that is coupled to the antenna. A signal meter is disposed in the adjustment mechanism and electrically connected to the antenna. A display of the signal meter readout is disposed in the adjustment mechanism in a location that can be easily viewed by a user during an aiming operation. The display allows the user to determine when the antenna has been positioned in order to obtain the approximate maximum signal strength possible given the vehicle's current location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Electronic Controlled Sytems, Inc.
    Inventor: Lael King
  • Patent number: 8890755
    Abstract: An antenna holding device for holding test antennas includes a base, a holding pole, a sleeve unit, and a support pole. The holding pole is perpendicularly mounted on the base. The sleeve unit includes a movable sleeve, and the movable sleeve slidably and rotatably mounted on the holding pole. The support pole is mounted on the sleeve unit for mounting the test antennas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Xiao-Lian He
  • Publication number: 20140203996
    Abstract: An antenna installation comprises a plurality of antenna assemblies (10) mounted in respective enclosures (12). The enclosures are interconnected by flow connections (14) allowing passage of dry air supplied from a dry air panel (16). Having passed through all the enclosures, the dry air exhausts through a dry air return (18). The dew point of the air in the dry air return is detected by a dew point sensor (22). An air flow sensor (24) is disposed downstream of the dew point sensor and signals alarm if the air flow falls below a preset threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: BAE SYSTEMS PLC
    Inventor: Stephen Charles Powell
  • Patent number: 8766873
    Abstract: Systems and methods are enclosed for processing antenna position information. The systems and methods involve positioning at least one sensor in proximity to an antenna for measuring alignment of the antenna; at a ground station in proximity to a tower holding the antenna, periodically receiving antenna alignment information from the at least one sensor; and transmitting the alignment information to a control station for determination whether the alignment of the antenna complies with antenna specifications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Inventor: Enzo Dalmazzo
  • Patent number: 8766872
    Abstract: Systems and methods are enclosed for processing antenna position information. The systems and methods involve positioning at least one magnetometer sensor in proximity to an antenna for measuring alignment of the antenna; at a ground station in proximity to a tower holding the antenna, periodically receiving antenna alignment information from the at least one sensor; and transmitting the alignment information to a control station for determination whether the alignment of the antenna complies with antenna specifications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Inventor: Enzo Dalmazzo
  • Publication number: 20140118151
    Abstract: Systems and methods for detecting that a removable antenna is electrically connected to a communication device are disclosed. An exemplary detection device includes a visual indicator component and a data indicator component. The visual indicator component electrically connects to an RF antenna connector of the communication device. The visual indicator component generates a visual indicator in response to the RF antenna connector being connected to the removable antenna. The RF antenna connector being connected to the removable antenna provides electrical paths through the visual indicator component and through the data indicator component from at least one voltage source to ground. The data indicator component electrically connects to the RF antenna connector. The data indicator component generates a data indicator in response to the RF antenna connector being connected to the removable antenna.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Landis+Gyr Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony DePoy
  • Publication number: 20140055320
    Abstract: An antenna is provided. The antenna includes an antenna base; and a detection mechanism removably coupled to the antenna base that generates a detection signal for detecting whether an antenna mast is coupled to the antenna base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: David R. PETRUCCI, Gregg R. KITTINGER, Duane S. CARPER, Douglas C. MARTIN, Laurence G. EKSTROM
  • Publication number: 20140028527
    Abstract: An antenna system is disclosed herein which includes a frontend portion, a backend portion and a feed line which connects frontend portion and backend portion with each other. The frontend portion comprises at least two antennas, a combiner connected downstream of the antennas and upstream of the feed line and antenna connectors that electrically connect through antenna plugs, the antennas to the combiner. The backend portion includes an electrical power source connected to the feed line and a resistance evaluation circuit connected between the electrical power source and the feed line and that measures the resistance of the frontend portion through the feed line. At least one of the antenna connectors is in mechanical contact with a jumper having jumper plugs between which a high resistance connection and a low resistance connection is provided that depends on whether the corresponding antenna is connected to the combiner or not.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: Harman Becker Automotive Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Karl-Anton Becker, Achim Ratzel
  • Publication number: 20130337756
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed, to control NFC tag power dissipation. A first NFC device antenna harvests power for operation from a signal from another NFC device as a result of ambient magnetic fields present in the environment. The NFC device is configured with a regulator system in order to control the level of harvested power to prevent damage to the NFC device circuitry. The harvested power levels can exceed the ability of the regulator device to dissipate the additional power resulting in regulator damage or a reduction in the regulator lifetime. The power dissipation of the regulator can be monitored thermally, and the power dissipation controlled by reducing the regulation voltage accordingly. Various systems are presented to establish a cutoff threshold to the regulator power dissipation using thermal regulator feedback and/or antenna current monitoring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: Broadcom Corporation
    Inventor: Robin WILSON
  • Patent number: 8570233
    Abstract: Various antenna assemblies are disclosed. In one example, an antenna assembly includes a reflector including a first ground plane, a second ground plane below and spaced apart from the reflector, an antenna adjacent a surface of the reflector opposite the second ground plane, and a grounding post galvanically connecting the first ground plane and the second ground plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Laird Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Björn Lindmark, Patrik Strömstedt, Henrik Ramberg, Kajsa From
  • Publication number: 20130273870
    Abstract: A wireless device comprising an antenna subsystem having a selectable polarization, at least one sensor configured to provide at least one orientation measurement of the wireless device, and a processor unit coupled to the at least one sensor and configured to receive the at least one orientation measurement, select a polarization of the antenna subsystem based on the at least one orientation measurement, and set the polarization to achieve the selected polarization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Applicant: FUTUREWEI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Ping Shi
  • Patent number: 8559886
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a communication transmission field, and particularly provides a device, a method, and a system for aligning an antenna. The method includes steps as follows. An input signal is received, and a receiver signal strength indication (RSSI) value is output according to a strength of the input signal. The RSSI value is received, and a practically received power value corresponding to the input signal is acquired by looking up a corresponding table between the RSSI and power. An antenna rotation signal and an alignment indication signal are output. The antenna is adjusted according to the antenna rotation signal so as to change a receiving angle of the antenna. Then, it is displayed that the antenna is aligned according to the alignment indication signal. In the present invention, the man-made operation errors are reduced, thus the network quality is effectively ensured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Guixue Zhao
  • Publication number: 20130230088
    Abstract: Performance in multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) antenna systems may be enhanced by configuring beams in a direction that reduces coupling between the beams. A decoupling metric may be calculated based on signal strengths received through the beams when an antenna system is pointed in different directions. The decoupling metric may be used to select a particular direction for operation of the antenna system. The decoupling metric may be combined with the signal strengths from each beam to select a direction for the antenna. An interface provides information to a user during positioning of the antenna to allow the user to select a direction for placement of the antenna that reduces coupling between beams in the MIMO antenna system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: Taqua WBH, LLC
    Inventors: Seyed Mohammad Ali Arad, Frank van Heeswyk
  • Publication number: 20130225088
    Abstract: Embodiments of a method for tuning the resonant frequency of an antenna in a wireless communication device are disclosed, along with embodiments of a wireless communication device using such a method. Embodiments sense the out-of-band impedance of the antenna, which comprises an antenna element and selectively adjustable impedance disposed between the antenna element and a ground plane of the wireless device, and adjust the selectively adjustable impedance to achieve a desired resonant frequency of the antenna. Embodiments separate an antenna signal into an in-band signal and out-of-band impedance, generate an error signal related to the out-of-band impedance, apply the error signal to a controller circuit configurable to generate an impedance error signal representing the change in antenna impedance, and apply the impedance error signal to the selectively adjustable impedance. Embodiments of a method and electronic circuit for determining the change in impedance of an antenna are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: HTC CORPORATION
    Inventor: William David Anderson
  • Patent number: 8519906
    Abstract: The invention provides an antenna capable of performance similar to a Yagi-Uda antenna. However, unlike a conventional Yagi Uda antenna, the antenna of the invention is implementable on a substrate and thereby provides a directional antenna capable of disposition within a slender housing such as a cellular communications device. One embodiment of the invention provides an antenna comprising a substrate including a ground plane. The ground plane comprises a base portion and a spine portion extending from the base portion along a central axis of the substrate. A driven antenna element is disposed on a portion of the substrate and coupled to the spine portion to form a first antenna dipole. At least one antenna director element is disposed on a portion of the substrate and coupled to the spine portion to form a second antenna dipole. A reflector element comprises a portion of the ground plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Loc8tor Ltd.
    Inventors: Anthony Richards, Andrew Ackland, Stephen Braithwaite
  • Patent number: 8514145
    Abstract: A system and method for detecting and reporting telecommunications antenna identification data to a remote user location is presented. A telecommunications antenna module is provided for storing and transmitting antenna serial number, part number, version, firmware, production date, and other relevant data to a network operator over AISG and/or 3 GPP compliant communications systems. The module consists of a printed circuit board mounting a programmable device capable of storing and transmitting programmed antenna information. The module is adapted for connecting to antenna communications cables using either AISG cable splitter or in-line in a daisy chain fashion. The module is capable of connecting in-line with another antenna monitoring device to connect to the antenna. The device is programmed either in the field by a field technician or by the antenna manufacturer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Inventor: Hendrikus A. Le Sage
  • Patent number: 8471780
    Abstract: Systems and methods are enclosed for processing antenna position information. The systems and methods involve positioning at least one sensor in proximity to an antenna for measuring alignment of the antenna; at a ground station in proximity to a tower holding the antenna, periodically receiving antenna alignment information from the at least one sensor; and transmitting the alignment information to a control station for determination whether the alignment of the antenna complies with antenna specifications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: Enzo Dalmazzo
  • Patent number: 8400366
    Abstract: A target antenna 4A to be measured and a measuring antenna 5 are placed within an anechoic chamber 1. A first azimuth angle plane radiation pattern S21(R,?,?) is measured using a network analyzer 7 with an elevation angle ? of the target antenna 4A fixed to a first angle ?1. Next, a second azimuth angle plane radiation pattern S21(R,?,?) is measured using the network analyzer 7 with the elevation angle ? of the target antenna 4A fixed to a second angle ?2 different from the first angle ?1 by 90 degrees. A radiation efficiency of the target antenna 4A is measured by integrating in a spherical shape the azimuth angle plane radiation patterns S21(R,?,?) at two planes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Kitada
  • Patent number: 8330660
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of tuning a glass antenna that is capable of analyzing the sensitivity of each point, and forming a structure of a glass antenna by making use of a common simulation tool so as to perform tuning depending on a priority that is determined by data obtained by analyzing the sensitivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Jung Hoon Oh, Yong Ho Noh, Tae-Heon Kim, Ho-Sung Choo, Woo-Jun Kang
  • Patent number: 8259020
    Abstract: An antenna system for satellite communication, mounted on a moving platform, includes an antenna assembly, a control and display unit, and an antenna steering unit. The antenna assembly includes a dipole driven element assembly and at least one director element mounted on an antenna mast. The antenna steering unit includes a support housing, a rotary joint comprising a BNC connector, an electronic magnetic compass. an angular velocity-sensing gyroscope, a global positioning system receiver, a signal processor and a motor. The direction of the antenna's azimuth axis is determined based on the heading of the moving platform determined by the signal processor. In one embodiment, the director elements, the antenna mast and the azimuth mast are all articulated on flexible joints comprising a cable and spring mechanism allowing the director elements to fold toward the antenna mast and allowing the antenna assembly to fold toward the azimuth mast for stowing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Trivec-Avant Corporation
    Inventors: David F. Macy, Timothy E. Macy, Steven R. Mills
  • Patent number: 8238819
    Abstract: Two satellite communications systems can use the same frequency or frequencies in geographically overlapping footprints, without creating undue interference in a given system that is caused by the same frequency signal(s) that is/are used by the other system. In particular, an aggregate Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) of the radioterminals and/or ancillary terrestrial components of a second satellite communications system in the common footprint is sufficiently low, and/or the receive antenna gain of a first satellite communications system is sufficiently low compared to the receive antenna gain of the second satellite communications system, so as to increase an aggregate receiver noise that is seen by the first satellite system receivers by an amount that does not substantially change a Quality of Service (QoS) of the first satellite communications system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: ATC Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Peter D. Karabinis
  • Publication number: 20120194408
    Abstract: A device comprises an antenna configured for near field communication with a remote antenna, the antenna producing a magnetic field when in operation, and a light source operable to project light from the device, the light source being arranged within the device so as to indicate, when illuminated, a first direction in which the magnetic flux density of the field produced by the antenna is sufficiently large to allow near field communication with the remote antenna.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: NOKIA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hannu Juhani RAJALIN
  • Publication number: 20120169569
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides an integrated antenna activity monitor system and method that provides an integrated activity indicator for the antenna by tapping a portion of the radio frequency (RF) energy from the antenna and utilizing the RF energy to drive the integrated activity indicator. In an exemplary embodiment, the integrated activity indicator circuit comprises an impedance matching network, a high-frequency rectifier circuit, and a light emitting diode. The impedance matching network is coupled to an antenna feed of the antenna, and configured to tap a portion of radio frequency energy from the antenna feed. The high-frequency rectifier circuit is coupled to the impedance matching network, and the light emitting diode coupled to an output of the high-frequency rectifier circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: GUY P. ROBERTS
  • Publication number: 20120068911
    Abstract: An antenna module with antenna signal indicating function includes a substrate unit, an antenna unit and a light-emitting unit. The antenna unit has an antenna trace fanned on the substrate unit, and the antenna trace has an antenna body having a grounding portion electrically connect with the antenna body and a feeding portion electrically connect with the antenna body for simultaneously receiving RF signals and DC. The light-emitting unit has a light-emitting element electrically connected between the antenna body and the feeding portion, thus the antenna body and the light-emitting element share the grounding portion. When the user turns on the antenna function of the laptop to receive RF signals, the antenna unit and the light-emitting unit can respectively receive RF signals and DC. Hence, users or bystander could easily judge whether the antenna unit is in use according to light or dark of the light-emitting unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventor: CHUN-CHUAN CHANG
  • Publication number: 20110298672
    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: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: ECHOSTAR TECHNOLOGIES L.L.C.
    Inventors: Troy Otto, Harold Jaramillo, Joseph E. Tomko
  • Publication number: 20110199274
    Abstract: Systems and methods are enclosed for processing antenna position information. The systems and methods involve positioning at least one magnetometer sensor in proximity to an antenna for measuring alignment of the antenna; at a ground station in proximity to a tower holding the antenna, periodically receiving antenna alignment information from the at least one sensor; and transmitting the alignment information to a control station for determination whether the alignment of the antenna complies with antenna specifications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventor: Enzo Dalmazzo
  • Publication number: 20110140990
    Abstract: A system and method for detecting and reporting telecommunications antenna identification data to a remote user location is presented. A telecommunications antenna module is provided for storing and transmitting antenna serial number, part number, version, firmware, production date, and other relevant data to a network operator over AISG and/or 3 GPP compliant communications systems. The module consists of a printed circuit board mounting a programmable device capable of storing and transmitting programmed antenna information. The module is adapted for connecting to antenna communications cables using either AISG cable splitter or in-line in a daisy chain fashion. The module is capable of connecting in-line with another antenna monitoring device to connect to the antenna. The device is programmed either in the field by a field technician or by the antenna manufacturer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Hendrikus A. Le Sage
  • Publication number: 20110115683
    Abstract: A high-frequency measurement setup for measuring a high-frequency test object, in particular, an antenna is provided. The setup includes one or more reflectors for high-frequency signals, a laser tracker, retrotargets for laser beams of the laser tracker that are disposed on the reflectors and are provided to orient the high-frequency test object, and a measuring unit that is designed to actuate the laser tracker in such a way that the high-frequency test object and one or more reflectors are measured in terms of their propagation of high-frequency signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Applicant: Astrium GmbH
    Inventor: Joerg HERRMANN
  • Publication number: 20110074640
    Abstract: In this mobile device, at least either the selection antenna module or the selection circuit module is so formed as to be incapable of being mounted on the mobile device body when the selection antenna module and the selection circuit module are not matched to each other, and both the selection antenna module and the selection circuit module are so formed as to be capable of being mounted on the mobile device body when the selection antenna module and the selection circuit module are matched to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: Funai Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Naoyuki WAKABAYASHI
  • Patent number: 7916024
    Abstract: Muster apparatus for registering the arrival of a person at a location includes detector means for detecting the arrival of the person at the location and a controller, the detector means being in signal communication with the controller. The apparatus includes output means for communicating information from the controller to an operator. The apparatus is arranged so that the information communicated is dependent on the arrival of the person at the location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: S3 ID Limited
    Inventor: Derek Gennard
  • Patent number: 7855692
    Abstract: There is disclosed a method of aligning an azimuth of an antenna by use of an antenna azimuth aligning instrument capable of economically and precisely aligning the azimuth in a case where a direction of a main beam of a directional antenna is matched with a counter antenna. There is provided a method of aligning the azimuth of the directional antenna by use of the antenna azimuth aligning instrument to be attached to the antenna for use in radio communication, the azimuth aligning instrument includes an aiming hole whose central axis is constituted in parallel with a main beam azimuth of the antenna and in which a diameter of an opening 2C on an operator's viewing side is set to be larger than that of an opening 2B on a target side, and the azimuth of the antenna is aligned using the centers of the two openings of the aiming hole as aims for a target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Hitachi Kokusai Electric Inc.
    Inventors: Shinya Koboyashi, Kanemi Sasaki, Hiroyuki Yasuda, Koji Moriya
  • Patent number: 7773038
    Abstract: Electronic devices may be provided with sensors for determining the presence and position of extendable and removable antennas. The antennas may extend by rotating about an axis, by reciprocating along their length, or by flexing from a retracted position to an extended position. The electronic device may determine when a removable antenna is attached or detached using signals from the sensors. The electronic device may determine the extent to which an antenna has been extended using signals from the sensors. The electronic device may control the operation of a radio-frequency transceiver that is coupled to the antenna based on signals from the sensors. The electronic device may turn the transceiver off when the antenna is retracted or removed. When the antenna is partially extended, the electronic device may place the transceiver in a low-power mode or place a dual-band transceiver into a single-band mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Brett William Degner, Chris Ligtenberg, Douglas Blake Kough, Paul Andrew Gojenola
  • Publication number: 20100164833
    Abstract: Systems and methods are enclosed for processing antenna position information. The systems and methods involve positioning at least one sensor in proximity to an antenna for measuring alignment of the antenna; at a ground station in proximity to a tower holding the antenna, periodically receiving antenna alignment information from the at least one sensor; and transmitting the alignment information to a control station for determination whether the alignment of the antenna complies with antenna specifications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventor: Enzo Dalmazzo
  • Patent number: 7712672
    Abstract: An antenna module and a portable communication terminal equipped with the antenna module are provided. The antenna module has a space-saving design, and also has both a capability for long communication distance for a tag function and a capability for wide communication range for a reader/writer function. A first antenna coil (11) for communication with a reader/writer and a second antenna coil (12) for communication with an IC tag are disposed on a base substrate (10). The first antenna coil (11) is disposed in an outermost periphery section of the base substrate (10) so that a communication distance is attained. The second antenna coil (12) is disposed within an inner periphery of the first antenna coil (11) so as to achieve overall size reduction of the module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Isao Takahashi, Hiraku Akiho
  • Publication number: 20100097291
    Abstract: A device and related method for refracting radio waves to enable the temporary or permanent recording of said waves. The device includes a piece of material that is transparent or translucent to radio waves. The piece of material, which may be solid, is selected to have an inherent radio wave refraction index greater than a value of one for either its transparent or translucent state. The radio waves are selectively passed through the material and recorded on a translation medium for observation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventors: William Patrick Crabtree, Lance Thomas Haubrick
  • Patent number: 7685725
    Abstract: A theodolite support tool includes a base plate configured to couple to the theodolite. The base plate has at least three rods extending from the bottom side of the base plate with each rod being vertically adjustable. The theodolite support tool also includes a clamp configured to attach to a support of an antenna. A cantilevered frame supports the base plate and is coupled to the clamp such that the frame is approximately level when the clamp is attached to the support of the antenna that is a predetermined angle from vertical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Samuel J. Rodriguez, David A. Zion, Kris W. Wallace
  • Patent number: 7669339
    Abstract: A method of aligning a fixture for holding an alignment telescope with an antenna array foundation. In one embodiment, the method includes mounting a fixture for holding an alignment telescope proximate to a first location on an edge of an antenna array foundation, projecting a laser beam outwards from the fixture towards a second location on the edge of the antenna array foundation, and aligning the fixture with the edge at the second location using the laser beam. The fixture may be aligned with the edge of the foundation by adjusting the position of the fixture in relation to the foundation so that the laser beam strikes the foundation edge at the second location, thereby producing a visible laser spot on the edge. The procedure may be repeated to align a plurality of spaced-apart foundation edge locations with the fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: David B. Arnal, Timothy T. Broderick
  • Patent number: 7663560
    Abstract: A satellite system 10 includes an outdoor unit that has an LNB 24. The antenna of the outdoor unit is aligned using a microwave energy-absorbing cap. The microwave-absorbing cap has microwave-absorbing material therein or thereon. A signal strength meter is used to measure the signal strength with the cap on so that the signal strength meter is less likely to be saturated during the alignment process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Butterworth, Milton E. Studt, II, Joseph Santoru
  • Patent number: 7652635
    Abstract: In a method and system for identifying an antenna, an antenna identifier is coupled to the antenna. The antenna identifier is a memory device that stores at least one attribute to identify the antenna. The antenna includes an electromagnetic radiation element coupled to a signal port and a coupling device coupled in-between the signal port and the antenna identifier. A data signal received at the signal port is isolated by the coupling device and provided to the antenna identifier. The data signal is provided by a radio device and/or an information handling system (IHS) coupled to the antenna via the signal port. The radio device and/or the IHS is operable to read one or more values for the at least one attribute stored in the antenna identifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Larry William Finn, Christian Alexander Garvin, Leo Joseph Gerten
  • Patent number: 7652634
    Abstract: An antenna identifier is coupled to the antenna. The antenna identifier is a memory device that stores at least one attribute to identify the antenna. The antenna includes an electromagnetic radiation element coupled to a signal port and a coupling device coupled in-between the signal port and the antenna identifier. A data signal received at the signal port is isolated by the coupling device and provided to the antenna identifier. The data signal is provided by a radio device and/or an information handling system (IHS) coupled to the antenna via the signal port. The radio device and/or the IHS is operable to read one or more values for the attribute stored in the antenna identifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Larry William Finn, Christian Alexander Garvin, Leo Joseph Gerten
  • Patent number: 7486186
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments provide a method comprising sensing an intruder within a predetermined vicinity of a Free Space Optical Communication (FSOC) system; and reducing an emitted power of the FSOC system. Certain exemplary embodiments provide a system comprising a Free Space Optical Communication (FSOC) subsystem; a sensor adapted to detect an intruder within a predetermined vicinity of the FSOC subsystem; and a switch adapted to reduce an emitted power of the FSOC subsystem, said switch coupled to said sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property, II, L.P.
    Inventors: Irwin Gerszberg, Jeremiah A. Okoro