Patent ID: 6175723
Filing Date: 2001-01-16
Classification: H01Q

Abstract:
A self-structuring antenna system comprising:a plurality of antenna elements positioned relative to each other in a predetermined orientation, each of the plurality of antenna elements being selectively electrically connectable to one or more of the other antenna elements;a plurality of switches electrically connecting the plurality of antenna elements so that closing one of the switches causes at least two antenna elements to be electrically connected, wherein the plurality of switches in combination with the plurality of antenna elements defines an antenna array; anda control device controlling each of the switches, said control device being responsive to a feedback signal that provides communication between the antenna array and the control device, the feedback signal causing the control device to open and close the switches based on a predetermined control scheme, the control scheme optimizing antenna performance based on the feedback signal by continuously switching the switches to change the electrical configuration of the antenna array.