Objective This study proposes an innovative beamforming method to achieve high-efficiency harmonic adaptive beamforming through multi-mode single sideband time modulation technology.
Method A multi-mode single sideband time modulation module containing absorption states is designed. The weighted control of the equivalent amplitude of each channel is achieved by turning the absorption state of the control module on and off. Based on the classic adaptive beamforming algorithm, the corresponding periodic control timing is derived to achieve the efficient adaptive beamforming of harmonics.
Results The feasibility of the system is verified by numerical simulation. A harmonic beamforming system including an antenna, modulation module, and control module is fabricated in the 5 GHz frequency band. Experiments show that the main beam scanning angle error is within 1° and the null angle error is within 3.5°.
Conclusion The proposed system can achieve the adaptive beamforming of harmonic beams through a single radio frequency channel, and has the advantages of a simple structure and low cost.