A Millimeter Wave Phased Array-based Communication System for Maglev Application

This paper presents a novel millimeter wave (mmW) phased array-based communication system to provide a reliable data link between maglev trains and ground control systems. This phased array-based communication system is composed of active phased array, baseband and interface components. In this maglev train-to-ground application scenario, the phased array is used to provide better coverage to lower the cost and stronger capability of resistance to spatial interference. The phased array is designed to have an effective isotropic radiation power (EIRP) of more than 50 dBm at 28 GHz, with a 3-dB beamwidth of 12 degree, sidelobe level (SLL) below -20 dB, and maximum scan angle ±45 degrees. Details of the system design and experimental results are shown. The proposed phased array-based communication system is verified to be a candidate solution for maglev train-to-ground wireless data transmission.