High Priority Objectives
Build an electromagnetic anechoic test chamber
Control the temperature of the transmitting antenna
Control the x-y position of the receiving antenna
Second Priority Objectives
Move the receiving antenna with minimum resolution of 10mm
Move the receiving antenna across the chamber within 1 minute
Other Constraints and Issues
Distance between the transmitting the receiving antenna should be greater than 0.5m for antenna characterization in the far-field
EMI shielding for all openings
No metals inside the test chamber, or it must be covered to microwave absorber to eliminate reflection
The resolution of the position should be in a range between 1mm to 10mm.
The minimum distance between the transmitting antenna and the receiving antenna should be 0.5 meters
Risk Reduction Strategy
List areas of risk and strategy that will be used to eliminate risk really in the design process.
One of the risks we would face first would be the choice about the microwave absorbing materials that meet the requirement of -20dB attenuation, since a lot of absorbers will be needed. In addition, a balance between the performance and the cost need to be found. Therefore, we need to gather more information about the absorber supplying industry for optimized result. The strategy is that we will use samples of different materials for testing, evaluate their performances, and choose the optimal material.
Another risk is the gantry system. The gantry rotor needs to from one side of the testing frame to another side in 1 minutes, and report its location in the resolution range of 1mm to 10mm. The strategy is that we will do theoretical analysis about the basic requirements of the motor, for example minimum required torque. Next, we will do online research to see available motors that meet the requirements.
Intermediate Milestones
Identifying meaningful intermediate milestones is a critical for effective project management. Together with your sponsor identify such milestones, and specify specific performance requirements you aim to meet at each milestone.
Find an appropriate material with good microwave shielding and absorption ability to construct the testing platform. The material should be able to have a -20dB microwave attenuation ability.
Design a gantry system constructed with non-metal material, and design a shield to cover the motor and possible metal parts.
Choose a proper motor to let the gantry system have a traverse speed higher than 1cm/s, with a resolution higher than 1cm.
Figure out what kind of thermal management device should be used in the antenna range.