High-Accuracy Multi-Node Ranging For Coherent Distributed Antenna Arrays

The design and experimental implementation of a waveform for high-accuracy inter-node ranging in a coherent distributed antenna array is presented. Based on a spectrally-sparse high-accuracy ranging waveform, the presented multi-frequency waveform enables high-accuracy ranging between multiple nodes in an array simultaneously, without interference. The waveform is based on a unique time-frequency duplexing approach combining a stepped-frequency waveform with different step cycles per node pair. The waveform also inherently includes beneficial disambiguation properties. The ambiguity function of the waveform is derived, and theoretical bounds on the ranging accuracy are obtained. Measurements were conducted in software-defined radio-based nodes in a three-element distributed array, demonstrating high-accuracy unambiguous ranging between two slave nodes and one master node.Comment: Submitted to IEEE Transactions on Aerospace and Electronic System

Open-Loop Distributed Beamforming Using Scalable High Accuracy Localization

We present a distributed antenna array supporting open-loop distributed beamforming at 1.5 GHz. Based on a scalable, high-accuracy internode ranging technique, we demonstrate open-loop beamforming experiments using three transmitting nodes. To support distributed beamforming without feedback from the destination, the relative positions of the nodes in the distributed array must be known with accuracies below $\lambda/15$ of the beamforming carrier frequency to ensure that the array maintains at least 90\% coherent beamforming gain at the receive location. For operations in the microwave range, this leads to range estimation accuracies of centimeters or lower. We present a scalable, high-accuracy waveform and new approaches to refine range measurements to significantly improve the estimation accuracy. Using this waveform with a three-node array, we demonstrate high-accuracy ranging simultaneously between multiple nodes, from which phase corrections on two secondary nodes are implemented to maintain beamforming with the primary node, thereby supporting open-loop distributed beamforming. Upon movement of the nodes, the range estimation is used to dynamically update the phase correction, maintaining beamforming as the nodes move. We show the first open-loop distributed beamforming at 1.5 GHz with two-node and three-node arrays, demonstrating the ability to implement and maintain phase-based beamforming without feedback from the destination.Comment: Submitted to IEEE Transactions on Wireless Communication

Adaptive Distributed Transceiver Synchronization Over a 90 Meter Microwave Wireless Link

We present an adaptive approach for synchronizing both the phase and frequency of radio-frequency transceivers over long-range wireless links to support distributed antenna array applications. To enable distributed beamforming between separate wireless nodes, the oscillators in the transceivers must operate at the same frequency, and their phases must be appropriately aligned to support phase-coherent beamsteering. Based on a spectrally-sparse waveform, a self-mixing circuit, and an adaptive control loop, we present a system capable of synchronizing the RF oscillators in separate transceivers over distances of nearly 100 m. The approach is based on a spectrally-sparse waveform for joint inter-node ranging and frequency transfer. A frequency reference is modulated onto one signal of a two-tone waveform transmitted by the primary node which is demodulated and used to lock the oscillator of the secondary node. The secondary node retransmits the two-tone signal which the primary node uses for a high-accuracy range measurement. From this range, the phase of the two transceivers can be aligned to support beamforming. We furthermore implemented an adaptive phase control approach to support high-accuracy phase coordination in changing environmental conditions. We demonstrate continuous high accuracy links over a 90 m distance in an outdoor environment for durations up to seven days, demonstrating sufficient phase coordination in changing weather conditions to support distributed beamforming at frequencies up to 3 GHz