Broadband Test Method for AESA Systems RF Validation for Radar A
And Space Systems With PXI Test Hardware

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Flexible and frequency-agile antenna systems are indispensable for aerospace. Against the backdrop of increasing demand, Emerson and the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) intend to intensify their collaboration. Together, they aim to develop testing methods and provide measurement procedures for broadband, actively controlled antenna arrays.

With the growing demand for flexible, frequency-agile antenna systems in safety-critical and dynamic environments such as aerospace and modern communication technology, test strategies must be designed to be reliable and scalable. A groundbreaking partnership between Emerson and the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) aims to support the development of new testing methods and provide validated measurement procedures specifically tailored to broadband, actively steered antenna arrays (AESA).

Improved Broadband Characterization

The project focuses on advanced measurement methods for the broadband characterization of active, electronically steered antenna arrays (AESA). Specific details about the measurement methods used in this particular project are not fully outlined in the currently published sources. Likely measurement methods that could be applied in the project context include the "Transient Radar Method (TRM)" developed in-house by VUB. This method is used for extremely precise broadband characterization and density measurement and has already been applied in related projects, such as the INTOWALL project for the non-destructive inspection of materials.

As part of this collaboration, Emerson is providing the university with modern NI PXI test hardware and vector signal transceivers (VST). The VST combines a broadband RF signal generator and a real-time signal analysis module based on FPGA in a single device, while the PXI test hardware offers a modular setup for various measurement tasks, such as digitizers, SMUs, oscilloscopes, or signal generators. Both ensure precise, multichannel signal analyses under realistic conditions. The goal is to expand testing capabilities to support future AESA technologies in fields such as aerospace and telecommunications while minimizing risks.

For AESA arrays, the use of the following classical and modern measurement methods would be expected:

• Broadband network analysis for capturing S-parameters over wide frequency ranges
• Beamforming and radiation pattern measurements in the near and far fields using automated turntables and acquisition solutions
• Phase and amplitude characterization of each individual element under various control and synchronization conditions
• Utilization of wireless, adaptive measurement systems for remote monitoring and automated testing

The integration of new, non-invasive radar and transient measurements such as TRM could play a crucial role in advancing characterization methods for active antenna arrays. It remains unclear whether correlative measurement methods or real-time diagnostics with fast digital acquisition systems will be employed in the project. Due to the high level of innovation, alongside established RF measurement methods, proprietary and advanced digitalized methods are also planned, particularly driven by VUB's developments in transient radar and frequency characterization.

This collaboration also includes supporting doctoral candidates and jointly publishing research findings, which not only strengthens Emerson's internal expertise but also contributes to the advancement of the entire technical community. (heh)

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