ViaSat has been granted a patent for a method to determine the physical orientation of an electronically steerable satellite antenna in a satellite communication system. By analyzing signals from different satellites, the antenna can efficiently operate with minimal interference. GlobalData’s report on ViaSat gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

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According to GlobalData’s company profile on ViaSat, Satellite communication systems was a key innovation area identified from patents. ViaSat's grant share as of May 2024 was 36%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Method for determining physical orientation of electronically steerable satellite antenna

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: ViaSat Inc

A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US11994595B2) discloses a method for determining the physical orientation of an electronically steerable satellite antenna in a satellite communication system. The method involves receiving signals from at least two different satellites, determining the direction of incidence of each signal with respect to the antenna's boresight direction, and calculating the antenna's orientation based on the location of the antenna and the signals received. The system aims to resolve the azimuth angle, elevation angle, and rotation of the antenna to within a 1-degree margin of error, ensuring accurate positioning for optimal communication.

Furthermore, the patent also describes a method for mitigating interference between the electronically steerable satellite antenna and non-target satellites. By associating a beam pattern emission profile with the antenna's orientation, the system can detect interference events where emissions reach a predetermined level with respect to non-target satellites. In response to such events, the antenna can modify its transmission to minimize interference, ensuring efficient communication with the intended target satellite. The system's ability to detect and address interference, particularly from side lobe emissions, enhances the overall performance and reliability of satellite communication systems, especially in scenarios involving geosynchronous or low earth orbit satellites.

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GlobalData, the leading provider of industry intelligence, provided the underlying data, research, and analysis used to produce this article.

GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.