Patch antenna

Description

TECHNOLOGY FIELD

The present invention relates to communication. More particularly, an embodiment of the present invention relates to interfaces for coupling terrestrial transceivers communicatively to satellites.

BACKGROUND

Generally speaking, satellites are launched into earth orbit for various applications relating to terrestrial, nautical, aeronautical, civil, and commercial communication, navigation, exploration, and observation, scientific research, and others. The satellites transmit radio frequency (RF) signals related to their operations. The satellite RF signals may be collected, interpreted, and processed by terrestrial satellite transceivers (transmitter/receivers) operable for exchanging signals with the satellites or other entities.

Communications satellites are operable for relaying information from a transmission source to transceivers in telecommunication related applications. Global communication networks and services may be provided, sustained, and supported by a communication satellite constellation, which comprises a plurality of individual communication satellites. Communication networks are operable with the satellite constellations to provide global telephone and data services of various kinds to users of portable and/or mobile transceiver terminals.

The portable/mobile transceiver terminals comprise antenna components, with which they may connect and exchange signals with the satellites. One or more terrestrial ground stations may participate in the communications. The communications may relate to messages and other traffic with which assets may be tracked and monitored, which may be moved in commerce or other endeavors.

Satellite terminals installed on the tracked assets support the messaging, tracking, and monitoring. For example, the SAT-202™ satellite terminal Satellite terminal (commercially available from the Honeywell Global Tracking™ subsidiary of Honeywell International™, Inc., a corporation in New Jersey) comprises a multi-purpose satellite terminal that may be installed on tracked assets. The SAT-202™ terminals are operable for automatically selecting an available satellite within a satellite constellation, and regularly transmitting its location, telemetry data, and message data thereto over wireless data links.

Satellite transceivers comprise an antenna operable as an interface for exchanging RF signals with the communication satellites. The SAT-202™ transceiver terminals exchange signals with the satellites over the L-Band between one Gigahertz (1 GHz) and two (2) GHz (inclusive) of the RF spectrum. The transceiver may comprise a patch antenna, which may achieve circular polarization by quadrature excitation of two linearly polarized ports. For example, the SAT-202 satellite transceiver comprises an L-band patch antenna with circular polarization that provides significant gain over low elevation angles and a frequency range spanning 1525 Megahertz (MHz) to 1661 MHz, inclusive.

Typically, antennae used in the satellite transceivers are enclosed within a radome and comprise two or more printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs). The radomes typically comprise a weather resistant plastic material, which is transparent over the antenna RF range. The PCBAs comprise one or more electronic components disposed over a printed circuit board (PCB), which comprises a dielectric substrate and a network of conductive horizontal traces and/or vertical interconnect accesses (“vias”). The PCBAs, the PCB substrates thereof, and the attachment of the plastic radome during assembly of the antenna represent nontrivial expenses, which are typically reflected in the cost of the satellite transceivers.

For example, patch antennae in typical satellite transceivers may comprise internal coaxial cable couplers, as well as circuit components operable for the quadrature excitation of two linearly polarized ports to achieve circular polarization. In some transceivers, the polarizing circuit components may be disposed on a dedicated PCB, with associated cost and fabrication complexity issues. The quality of the circular polarization may be sensitive to the fabrication issues, and cross-polarization near the horizon may approach excessive levels. Left-hand polarization associated with this effect may cause signal fading at low elevation angles.

Therefore, a need exists for a satellite transceiver antenna that provides significant gain over a wide angle from an axis of maximum radiated power, and over a wide range of terrestrial locations world-wide for exchanging signals from geostationary communication satellites. A need also exists to implement the satellite transceiver antenna with right-hand circular polarization and to avoid interference associated with left-hand polarization. Further, a need exists to reduce complexity and costs related to components and fabrication of the satellite transceiver antenna, relative to existing conventional approaches.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, in one aspect, example embodiments of the present invention embrace a satellite transceiver antenna that provides significant gain over a wide angle from its boresight (axis of maximum radiated power), and globally over a wide range of terrestrial locations world-wide for exchanging signals from geostationary communication satellites. An example embodiment relates to implementing a satellite transceiver antenna with right-hand circular polarization, which avoids interference associated with left-hand polarization. Further, example embodiments of the present invention reduce complexity and costs related to components and fabrication of the satellite transceiver antenna, relative to existing conventional approaches.

A terrestrial transceiver is described, which is operable for exchanging RF signals with one or more communication satellites. The terrestrial transceiver comprises a patch antenna sensitive to signals within an L-Band RF range and operable for providing a gain to the RF signals. The patch antenna comprises a reflector. The reflector comprises a metallic material of a characteristic dimension and is operable for shaping a pattern of the RF gain of the patch antenna. Further, the transceiver comprises at least one printed circuit board assembly (PCBA).

The PCBA comprises a dielectric substrate, at least one electronic component disposed upon the dielectric substrate, and a hole penetrating the dielectric substrate and disposed substantially within a central region thereof. Based on the dimension characteristic of the reflector and on one or more of a positioning or a dimension of the hole, the RF gain diverges over an angle from a boresight of the patch antenna.

The terrestrial transceiver may also comprise a modulator/demodulator (modem) communicatively coupled to the patch antenna and operable for modulating and for demodulating the RF signals.

The terrestrial transceiver may also comprise a coupler assembly. The coupler assembly may comprise a pair of pins, each comprising a conductive material. The pair of pins is operable for coupling signals within the RF range between the patch antenna and the at least one electronic component of the PCBA. The coupler assembly also comprises a screen cover comprising a conductive material and operable for providing a ground connection between the modem and a ground plane of the patch antenna. Further, the coupler assembly comprises at least one spacer, which comprises a dielectric material.

The at least one spacer may comprise an antenna spacer operable for providing an electrical insulation between the modem and the ground plane of the patch antenna. The at least one spacer may also (or alternatively) comprise a screen spacer operable for providing one or more of an electrical insulation, or a mechanical support for the screen cover.

The terrestrial transceiver may also comprise a radome. The radome comprises a material transparent to the RF radiation and is operable for protectively housing the patch antenna within an operating environment of the transceiver. The reflector is suspended within the radome.

The metallic material of the suspended reflector may comprise a stamped metal. The characteristic dimension of the suspended reflector may comprise a shape configured over two spatial dimensions. A frequency bandwidth characteristic of the patch antenna may relate to the configured shape of the suspended reflector.

The terrestrial transceiver may also comprise a component operable for providing a first linear excitation to a first port of a pair of ports, a second linear excitation to a second port of the pair of ports wherein the second linear excitation is provided in a quadrature relationship to the first port of the pair. A circular polarization pattern is imparted to the patch antenna by the quadrature pair of excitations. In an example embodiment, a left-handed polarization of the antenna is rejected over low elevation angles within the RF operating range of the antenna.

The component operable for providing a first linear excitation and the second linear excitation may comprises a splitter, such as a Wilkinson splitter. Further, the excitation component may relate to the at least one electronic component disposed upon the dielectric substrate of the at least one PCBA.

The terrestrial transceiver may also comprise at least a second PCBA. The at least second PCBA may comprise a PCBA operable for providing a ground plane for the patch antenna, which has a radiating element coupled to the patch antenna and operable for radiating the RF signals thereto. The at least second PCBA may also (or alternatively) comprise a substrate. The substrate comprises a dielectric material and is operable for insulating the patch antenna electrically.

In another aspect, an example embodiment of the present invention relates to a fabrication process. An example embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for fabricating a terrestrial satellite transceiver operable for exchanging RF signals with a satellite, such as the transceiver summarized above. In an example embodiment, the fabrication method comprises assembling at least one PCBA.

The assembly of the PCBA comprises penetrating a dielectric substrate with a hole disposed substantially within a central region thereof and disposing at least one electronic component on the dielectric substrate.

A patch antenna is attached to the PCBA. The patch antenna comprises a reflector and is sensitive to signals within an L-Band RF range and operable for providing a gain to the RF signal. The reflector may comprise a metallic material. A shape is configured for a metallic reflector over two spatial dimensions. A frequency bandwidth characteristic of the patch antenna relates to the configured shape of the reflector.

The metallic reflector is operable for shaping a pattern of the RF gain of the patch antenna. Based on the shape configured over the two dimensions of the reflector and on a positioning, and/or on a dimension of the hole disposed in the at least one PCBA, the RF gain diverges over an angle from a boresight of the patch antenna.

An example embodiment of the present invention relates to a terrestrial transceiver product, which is implemented by a process such as the fabrication process summarized above. The transceiver product may comprise or correspond to the terrestrial satellite transceiver, which is also summarized above.

In yet another aspect, an example embodiment of the present invention relates to a satellite communication network. In an example embodiment, the satellite communication network comprises a satellite constellation. The satellite constellation comprises a plurality of communication satellites.

Each of the communication satellites is deployed in a geosynchronous, geostationary earth orbit (GEO). The satellite communication network also comprises one or more terrestrial transceivers operable for exchanging RF signals with one or more of the plurality of communication satellites.

The one or more terrestrial transceivers comprise a patch antenna sensitive to signals within an L-Band RF range and operable for providing a gain to the RF signals. The patch antenna comprises a reflector. The reflector comprises a metallic material of a characteristic dimension and is operable for shaping a pattern of the RF gain of the patch antenna. Further, the one or more terrestrial transceivers comprise at least one PCBA.

The PCBA comprises a dielectric substrate, at least one electronic component disposed upon the dielectric substrate, and a hole penetrating the dielectric substrate and disposed substantially within a central region thereof wherein. The RF gain diverges over an angle from a boresight of the patch antenna based on the dimension characteristic of the reflector, and on a positioning and/or a dimension of the hole. The transceiver may comprise or correspond to the terrestrial satellite transceiver summarized above.

The foregoing summary is presented by way of example, and not limitation, as a conceptual prelude to the following detailed description of example embodiments and each figure (FIG.) of the accompanying drawing, referred to therein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a first view of example satellite communication network, according to an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 depicts a second view of example satellite communication network, according to an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 depicts an assembled view of an example patch antenna reflector mounted in a radome, according to an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 depicts an exploded view of the example patch antenna reflector and the radome, according to an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 depicts an exploded view of a portion of an example terrestrial transceiver, according to an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6A depicts a top view of an example PCB, according to an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6B depicts a lateral view of the example PCB, according to an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6C depicts a view of the example PCB partly from a side and partly from the top, according to an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7A depicts a top view of an example antenna spacer, according to an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7B depicts a lateral view of the example antenna spacer, according to an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 depicts an exploded view of an example terrestrial transceiver, according to an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9A depicts a first example antenna power spectrum, according to an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9B depicts a second example antenna power spectrum, according to an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 depicts an example telemetry system, according to an example embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 11 depicts a flowchart for an example fabrication process, according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Example embodiments of the present invention are described in relation to a terrestrial transceiver, which is operable for exchanging RF signals with one or more communication satellites. The terrestrial transceiver comprises a patch antenna sensitive to signals within an L-Band RF range and operable for providing a gain to the RF signals. The patch antenna comprises a reflector. The reflector comprises a metallic material of a characteristic dimension and is operable for shaping a pattern of the RF gain of the patch antenna. Further, the transceiver comprises at least one PCBA.

The satellite transceiver antenna described herein provides significant gain over a wide angle from its boresight, which comprises its axis of maximum radiated power, and globally over a wide range of terrestrial locations world-wide for exchanging signals from geostationary communication satellites. An example embodiment relates to implementing a satellite transceiver antenna with right-hand circular polarization, which avoids interference associated with left-hand polarization. Further, example embodiments of the present invention reduce complexity and costs related to components and fabrication of the satellite transceiver antenna, relative to existing conventional approaches.

Overview.

An example embodiment of the present invention relates to a terrestrial transceiver, which is operable for exchanging RF signals with one or more communication satellites. The terrestrial transceiver comprises a patch antenna sensitive to signals within an L-Band RF range and operable for providing a gain to the RF signals. The patch antenna comprises a reflector. The reflector comprises a metallic material of a characteristic dimension and is operable for shaping a pattern of the RF gain of the patch antenna. Further, the transceiver comprises at least one PCBA.

The PCBA comprises a dielectric substrate, at least one electronic component disposed upon the dielectric substrate, and a hole penetrating the dielectric substrate and disposed substantially within a central region thereof. Based on the dimension characteristic of the reflector and on one or more of a positioning or a dimension of the hole, the RF gain diverges over an angle from a boresight of the patch antenna.

The terrestrial transceiver may also comprise a modem communicatively coupled to the patch antenna and operable for modulating and for demodulating the RF signals.

The terrestrial transceiver may also comprise a coupler assembly. The coupler assembly may comprise a pair of pins, each comprising a conductive material. The pair of pins is operable for coupling signals within the RF range between the patch antenna and the at least one electronic component of the PCBA. The coupler assembly also comprises a screen cover comprising a conductive material and operable for providing a ground connection between the modem and a ground plane of the patch antenna. Further, the coupler assembly comprises at least one spacer, which comprises a dielectric material.

The at least one spacer may comprise an antenna spacer operable for providing an electrical insulation between the modem and the ground plane of the patch antenna. The at least one spacer may also (or alternatively) comprise a screen spacer operable for providing one or more of an electrical insulation, or a mechanical support for the screen cover.

The terrestrial transceiver may also comprise a radome. The radome comprises a material transparent to the RF radiation and is operable for protectively housing the patch antenna within an operating environment of the transceiver. The reflector is suspended within the radome.

The metallic material of the suspended reflector may comprise a stamped metal. The characteristic dimension of the suspended reflector may comprise a shape configured over two spatial dimensions. A frequency bandwidth characteristic of the patch antenna may relate to the configured shape of the suspended reflector.

The terrestrial transceiver may also comprise a component operable for providing a first linear excitation to a first port of a pair of ports, a second linear excitation to a second port of the pair of ports wherein the second linear excitation is provided in a quadrature relationship to the first port of the pair. A circular polarization pattern is imparted to the patch antenna by the quadrature pair of excitations. In an example embodiment, a left-handed polarization of the antenna is rejected over low elevation angles within the RF operating range of the antenna.

The component operable for providing a first linear excitation and the second linear excitation may comprises a splitter, such as a Wilkinson splitter. Further, the excitation component may relate to the at least one electronic component disposed upon the dielectric substrate of the at least one PCBA.

The terrestrial transceiver may also comprise at least a second PCBA. The at least second PCBA may comprise a PCBA operable for providing a ground plane for the patch antenna, which has a radiating element coupled to the patch antenna and operable for radiating the RF signals thereto. The at least second PCBA may also (or alternatively) comprise a substrate. The substrate comprises a dielectric material and is operable for insulating the patch antenna electrically.

Example Satellite Communication Network.

An example embodiment of the present invention relates to a satellite communication network. FIG. 1 depicts a first view of example satellite communication network 100, according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

In an example embodiment, the communication network comprises a constellation (125; FIG. 2) of communication satellites in a geosynchronous, geostationary earth orbit (GEO) 105. The satellite constellation comprises a communication satellite 111.

A tracked asset 199 comprises a terrestrial satellite transceiver 50. The transceiver 50 is operable for exchanging RF signals 155 with the satellite 111 (and other satellites of the constellation). The transceiver 50 is operable as a transceiver and as a transmitter in relation to the exchange of the RF signals 155 with the satellite 111 and other satellites of the constellation. Thus, the transceiver 50 comprises transceiver related functionality, operability and capability.

The RF signals 155 may comprise communication signals relating to LDRS, data, messaging, telephony, telemetry, geopositioning, and navigation and others and may allow tracking and other reports relating to the tracked asset 199. Using the LDRS, the satellite communication network 100 is operable for tracking, monitoring, messaging, and telemetry of vessels, vehicles, aircraft, cargoes, containers, personnel and various other items represented by the tracked asset 199, which may be moved in relation to commerce or other endeavors. The transceiver 50 installed on the tracked asset 199 supports the messaging, tracking, monitoring, and telemetry features.

The tracked asset 199 represents a terrestrial item, which may comprise a cargo, cargo item, container, trailer, barge, structure, vehicle, and others. The vehicle may be operable over one or more transport medium (e.g., water, air, land, etc.). The tracked asset 199 may even represent a living thing such as a person, animal, or group. The tracked asset 199 is disposed or deployed over a terrestrial surface. The terrestrial surface may comprise land, water, a structure (such as a building), stack, or a deck, cargo bay, or other portion of a vehicle.

FIG. 2 depicts a second view of the example satellite communication network 100, according to an example embodiment of the present invention. The satellite constellation 125 comprises a plurality of communication satellites 111 through 115, inclusive.

Each communication satellite of the constellation 125 is deployed in substantially circular geosynchronous, geostationary earth orbit (GEO) 105. Each of the satellites of the constellation 125 thus orbits earth in space at an altitude of approximately 22,236 statute miles (35,786 kilometers) above mean sea level, “eastward” over a substantially equatorial plane, and with a period of approximately 23 hours 56 minutes and 4 seconds and in synchronism with the earth sidereal rotational period.

An example embodiment may be implemented in which the constellation 125 represents the INMARSAT™ constellation of communication satellites, or a constellation with similar capabilities and characteristics. The INMARSAT™ constellation comprises at least five (5) telecommunication satellites 111, 112, 113, 114, and 115. The satellites of the constellation 125 orbit the earth in a GEO (represented by the GEO 125) and operated by INMARSAT™ (also known as the “International Maritime Satellite Organization,” a public company doing business in Great Britain). The INMARSAT™ communications satellite constellation and networks provide global telephone and data services of various kinds to users of portable and/or mobile transceiver terminals.

The portable/mobile transceiver terminals comprise antenna components, with which they may connect to the satellites through one or more terrestrial ground stations. For example, a low data rate service (LDRS) is operable over the INMARSAT™ constellation and networks for tracking, monitoring, messaging, and telemetry of vessels, vehicles, aircraft, cargoes, containers, personnel and various assets (represented by the tracked assets 199) that may be moved in relation to commerce or other endeavors.

The satellite communication network 100 also comprises one or more terrestrial transceivers, represented by the transceiver 50 and described in relation thereto. The transceiver 50 is operable for exchanging RF signals with one or more of the plurality of communication satellites.

In a first terrestrial location, the transceiver 50 exchanges the RF signals 155 with the satellite 111. As the transceiver 50 moves over the terrestrial surface, it may exchange the RF signals 155 with one or more of the other satellites (e.g., 114, etc.) of the constellation 125. The transceiver 50 comprises a patch antenna 30. The patch antenna 30 comprises a reflector 33, which may be suspended in a radome 40.

Example Terrestrial Satellite Transceiver.

FIG. 3 depicts an assembled view of an example reflector 33 mounted in a radome 40 of the patch antenna 30, according to an example embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 depicts an exploded view of the example reflector 33 and the radome 40 of the patch antenna 30, according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

The patch antenna 30 is sensitive to signals within an L-Band RF range and operable for providing a gain to the RF signals. The reflector 33 comprises a metallic material of a characteristic dimension and is operable for shaping a pattern of the RF gain of the patch antenna 30. The reflector 33 is operable for shaping a pattern of the RF gain of the patch antenna. Further, the transceiver comprises at least one PCBA.

FIG. 5 depicts an exploded view of a portion of the example terrestrial transceiver 50, according to an example embodiment of the present invention. An ‘H1’ PCB 52 is operable for providing a ground plane 521 for the antenna 30. The ground plane is disposed over a surface of a dielectric substrate 521. A radiating element (“Rad.”) 555 is disposed on the ‘H1’ PCB of the patch antenna 50.

FIG. 6A depicts a top view of an example ‘H1’ PCB 52, according to an example embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6B depicts a lateral view of the example ‘H1’ PCB 52, according to an example embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6C depicts a view of the example PCB partly from a side and partly from the top, according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

The ‘H1’ PCBA 52 comprises a dielectric substrate 521 and at least one electronic component, such as the radiating element 555 disposed upon the dielectric substrate 521. The substrate 521 is penetrated by a hole 66. The hole 66 penetrates a central region of the dielectric substrate 521 in which it is substantially disposed. Based on the configured dimension characteristic of the reflector 33, and on a positioning and/or a dimension of the hole 66, the RF gain diverges over an angle from a boresight of the patch antenna 30. The transceiver 50 may also comprise an antenna spacer 53.

FIG. 7A depicts a top view of the example antenna spacer 53, according to an example embodiment of the present invention. The modem PCBA 56 and/or the modem 555 may be electrically and mechanically coupled to a component of the antenna spacer 53. FIG. 7B depicts a lateral view of the example antenna spacer 53, according to an example embodiment of the present invention. The antenna spacer 53 is operable for providing electrical insulation between the modem 550 and a ground plane 533 of the patch antenna 30.

The modem comprises one or more electronic components 550 disposed on a modem PCBA 56, which may be disposed within a housing or cover 59.

FIG. 8 depicts an exploded view of the example terrestrial transceiver 50, according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 6B and FIG. 6C and FIG. 8, the modem PCBA 56 is shown disposed over one (e.g., lower) surface of the ‘H1’ PCBA 52. The modem 56 is operable for modulating signals to the antenna 30, which may be radiated by the radiating element 555 and the reflector 33. The modem is also operable for demodulating signals received by the antenna from the satellites of the constellation 125.

The terrestrial transceiver 50 may also comprise a coupler assembly 557. The coupler assembly 557 comprises a pair of pins 51, each comprising a conductive material. The pair of pins 51 is operable for coupling signals within the RF range between the patch antenna 30 and the radiating element 555 of the ‘H1’ PCBA 52.

The coupler assembly also comprises a screen cover 54. The screen cover 54 comprises a conductive material and is operable for providing a ground connection between the modem 550 and a ground plane 533 of the patch antenna 30. Further, the coupler assembly comprises a screen spacer 55, which comprises a dielectric material. The screen spacer 55 is operable for providing electrical insulation and mechanical support for the screen cover 54.

The radiating element 555 comprises a component operable for providing a first linear excitation to a first port of a pair of ports, a second linear excitation to a second port of the pair of ports wherein the second linear excitation is provided in a quadrature relationship to the first port of the pair.

A circular polarization pattern is imparted to the patch antenna 30 by the quadrature pair of excitations. In an example embodiment, a left-handed polarization of the antenna is rejected over low elevation angles within the RF operating range of the antenna. An example embodiment may be implemented in which the radiating element 555 comprises a power divider such as a Wilkinson splitter.

Power coupling characteristics of the example transceiver 30 may be represented in power spectra corresponding to various frequency ranges. The power spectra may be computed, predicted, modeled, measured, and/or monitored in relation to an implementation of the example transceiver 30.

FIG. 9A depicts a first example antenna power spectrum 91, according to an example embodiment of the present invention. The power spectrum 91 represents the power coupled by the antenna 30 over a frequency range extending from 500 MHz to 2.5 GHz, inclusive.

FIG. 9B depicts a second example antenna power spectrum, according to an example embodiment of the present invention. The power spectrum 91 represents the power coupled by the antenna 30 over a frequency range extending from 10 MHz to 6 GHz, inclusive.

FIG. 10 depicts an example telemetry system 1000, according to an example embodiment of the present invention. The telemetry system may comprise the terrestrial transceiver 50 and a sensor 1111. The sensor 1111 may be disposed in proximity to the tracked asset 199. The sensor 1111 may also (or alternatively) be disposed within (and/or upon an internal or external surface of) the tracked asset 199.

The sensor 1111 may comprise an array of multiple sensor components. The sensor 1111 is coupled communicatively with the transceiver 50 by a signal conductor or other wireline or wireless data link 1222. The sensor component 1111 is operable for sensing, detecting, and/or measuring one or more characteristics or parameters relating to an (e.g., internal) environment 1195 of the tracked asset 199 and/or a cargo or component item 1199 therein. The characteristics and/or parameters may relate to temperature, humidity, pressure, vibration, shock, atmospheric environmental chemistry and physics, and/or others.

The transceiver 50 may be operable for providing multi-purpose tracking and monitoring high-value tracked assets represented by the example item 199. The transceiver 50 is operable for selecting a best, or most appropriate one of the satellites 111 through 115, inclusive, of the constellation 125. The transceiver 50 may then regularly transmit its location (and thus that of the tracked asset 199) and any additional message data, which may comprise data related to outputs signals of the sensors 1111. The transceiver 50 may be implemented for use in various, e.g., external environments and may thus be deployed and used world-wide in any season.

Example Fabrication Process.

An example embodiment of the present invention also relates to a method for fabricating a terrestrial satellite transceiver operable for exchanging RF signals with a satellite. FIG. 11 depicts a flowchart for an example fabrication process, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In step 1111, at least one PCBA is assembled. The PCBA may comprise a dielectric substrate. The assembly of the at least one PCBA may comprise a step 1121 and a step 1122.

In the step 1121, the dielectric substrate is penetrated with a hole. The hole is disposed substantially within a central region of the PCBA. In step the 1122, at least one electronic component is disposed on the dielectric substrate.

In step 1112, a patch antenna is assembled. The patch antenna is sensitive to signals within an L-Band RF range and operable for providing a gain to the RF signal. The patch antenna may comprise a metallic reflector and the assembly of the patch antenna may comprise a step 1123.

In the step 1123, a shape is configured for a metallic reflector over two spatial dimensions. A frequency bandwidth characteristic of the patch antenna relates to the configured shape of the reflector. The metallic reflector is operable for shaping a pattern of the RF gain of the patch antenna. Based on the shape configured over the two dimensions of the reflector and on a positioning, and/or on a dimension of the hole disposed in the at least one PCBA, the RF gain diverges over an angle from a boresight of the patch antenna.

In step 1113, the patch antenna is coupled electrically to the at least one electronic component of the PCBA. The at least one electronic component of the PCBA may comprise a modem, and the step 1113 may comprise a step 1124 and a step 1125.

In the step 1124, a coupler is assembled. In the step 1125, the patch antenna is coupled communicatively via the assembled coupler to the modem. The modem is operable for modulating and for demodulating the RF signals. The coupling the patch antenna and the at least one electronic component of the PCBA communicatively in relation to conducting signals within the RF range between the patch antenna and the at least one electronic component of the PCBA.

In step 1114, a screen cover may be installed. The screen cover comprises a conductive material and is operable for providing a ground connection between the modem and a ground plane of the patch antenna.

In step 1115, at least one spacer comprising a dielectric material may be installed. The at least one dielectric spacer may comprise an antenna spacer operable for providing an electrical insulation between the modem and the ground plane of the patch antenna. The at least one spacer may also (or alternatively) comprise a screen spacer operable for providing an electrical insulation and/or a mechanical support for the screen cover.

In step 1116, a radome may be installed over the patch antenna, e.g., over the metallic reflector thereof. In an example embodiment, the radome may be installed over the antenna reflector using a technique related to heat staking. The radome comprises a material such as a plastic, which is transparent to the RF radiation and operable for protectively housing the patch antenna within an operating environment of the transceiver. The reflector is suspended within the radome.

In step 1115, at least one spacer comprising a dielectric material may be installed. The at least one dielectric spacer may comprise an antenna spacer operable for providing an electrical insulation between the modem and the ground plane of the patch antenna. The at least one spacer may also (or alternatively) comprise a screen spacer operable for providing an electrical insulation and/or a mechanical support for the screen cover.

In step 1116, a radome may be installed over the patch antenna, e.g., over the metallic reflector thereof. In an example embodiment, the radome may be installed over the antenna reflector using a technique related to heat staking. The radome comprises a material such as a plastic, which is transparent to the RF radiation and operable for protectively housing the patch antenna within an operating environment of the transceiver. The reflector is suspended within the radome.

In a step 1117, a second PCBA may be assembled. The second PCBA operable for providing a ground plane for the patch antenna and comprising a radiating element coupled to the patch antenna and operable for radiating the RF signals thereto. The second PCBA may comprise a dielectric substrate and is operable for insulating the patch antenna electrically.

An example embodiment of the present invention relates to a terrestrial transceiver product, which is implemented by a process such as the fabrication process 1100. The fabrication process 1100 is described by way of illustration and is not intended to reflect any limitation or restriction to implementing example embodiments of the present invention. On the contrary, example embodiments of the present invention are well suited to implementation using an alternative (or additional) method, which is reflected by the fabrication process 1100.

Example embodiments may be implemented in which the steps 1111 through 1117 (inclusive) and/or the steps 1121 through 1125 (inclusive) are performed without respect to any particular order or sequence. An example embodiment may also (or alternatively) be implemented in which one or more of the steps 1111 through 1117 (inclusive) and/or the steps 1121 through 1125 (inclusive) are optional or omitted, and/or with one or more additional (or alternative) steps.

Use of the suspended reflector 33 simplifies and reduces costs related to fabrication of antenna products, and transceiver products comprising the antenna product relative to conventional antennas and transceivers, which use an additional PCB instead. Shaping of the reflector 33 provides sufficient frequency bandwidth. The shaping of the reflector 33 allows efficient and economical compatibility with material tolerances related to the ‘H1’ PCBA 52, which may also allow economical implementation of the substrate 521. The suspension of the reflector 33 within the radome 40 allows also the simplification of assembly related to its incorporation it in the radome 40, and its attachment, which may relate to use of economical heat staking techniques.

In an example embodiment, the hole 66 penetrating the ‘H1’ PCBA 52 (and the configured shape of the reflector 33) provide gain over a wide angle from boresight of the antenna 30. Thus, the transceiver 50 is operable for providing transceiver functionality for geostationary satellite communications from all locations on earth. An example embodiment is implemented in which the hole 66 penetrating the middle of the substrate 521 of the ‘H1’ PCBA 52, and fine-tuning the dimensions of the patch antenna 30 and the reflector element 33. Example embodiments are implemented which substantially reject left-hand polarization for low elevation angles in operating bands of the transceiver 50, and thus ameliorates signal interference due to fading introduced by signals reflecting on the ground.

In an example embodiment, use of the Wilkinson splitter, e.g., as a power divider and/or as a component of the radiating element 555, economically provides the dual RF feed with a 90 degree phase shift on the ‘H1’ PCBA 52, which obviates at least one additional PCB and related complexity and cost relative to typical transceivers. Further, use of the pins 51, screen cover 54, and antenna spacer 53 to configure the coupler 557 for coupling the antenna 30 to the electronic component(s) of the ‘H1’ PCBA 52 obviates use of coaxial cable and related additional cost, impedance, and/or signal related rise time, which could restrict bandwidth.

To supplement the present disclosure, this application incorporates entirely by reference the following commonly assigned patents, patent application publications, and patent applications:

• U.S. Pat. No. 6,832,725; U.S. Pat. No. 7,128,266;
• U.S. Pat. No. 7,159,783; U.S. Pat. No. 7,413,127;
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Example embodiments of the present invention thus relate to a satellite transceiver antenna 30 that provides significant gain over a wide angle from its boresight (axis of maximum radiated power), and globally over a wide range of terrestrial locations world-wide for exchanging signals from geostationary communication satellites. An example embodiment relates to implementing a satellite transceiver 50 antenna 30 with right-hand circular polarization, which avoids interference associated with left-hand polarization. Further, example embodiments of the present invention reduce complexity and costs related to components and fabrication of the satellite transceiver antenna, relative to existing conventional approaches.

An example embodiment of the present invention is thus described in relation to a terrestrial transceiver 50, which is operable for exchanging RF signals with one or more communication satellites (e.g., of the constellation 125). The terrestrial transceiver 50 comprises a patch antenna 30 sensitive to signals within an L-Band RF range and operable for providing a gain to the RF signals. The patch antenna 30 comprises a reflector 33. The reflector 33 comprises a metallic material of a characteristic dimension and is operable for shaping a pattern of the RF gain of the patch antenna 30. Further, the transceiver comprises at least one PCBA (e.g., ‘H1’ PCBA 52).

Example embodiments of the present invention also relate to methods (e.g., process 1100) for fabricating terrestrial transceivers, which are operable for exchanging RF signals with one or more communication satellites, a transceiver product (e.g., transceiver 50) fabricated by the example process, and a satellite communication network comprising the example transceiver.

For clarity and brevity, as well as to avoid unnecessary or unhelpful obfuscating, obscuring, obstructing, or occluding features of an example embodiment, certain intricacies and details, which are known generally to artisans of ordinary skill in related technologies, may have been omitted or discussed in less than exhaustive detail. Any such omissions or discussions are unnecessary for describing example embodiments of the invention, and not particularly relevant to understanding of significant features, functions and aspects of the example embodiments described herein.

In the specification and/or figures, typical embodiments of the invention have been disclosed. The present invention is not limited to such example embodiments. The use of the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The figures are schematic representations and so are not necessarily drawn to scale. Unless otherwise noted, specific terms have been used in a generic and descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation.