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RanLOS receives important patent approval in Japan

RanLOS patent Japan
RanLOS patent Japan

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2024-02-22 (13:00 CET)
Press release

RanLOS receives important patent approval in Japan that strengthens the protection of RanLOS connectivity test systems

RanLOS AB (publ) has received patent approval for a key patent in Japan regarding the patent application ”Method and apparatus for testing wireless communication to vehicles”. RanLOS now has two approved patents in Japan. This strengthens and extends the patent protection for the company’s test system. The patent will be valid until the 15th of December 2036.

RanLOS patent Japan

The RanLOS test system enables car manufacturers to test connectivity, throughput, and antenna performance smarter and more cost-effectively. With RanLOS solutions, car manufacturers can test earlier in the development process and continuously perform repeatable and reliable testing throughout the whole product development process.

An important market segment that continues to grow rapidly is wireless communication for automotive applications, such as cars, buses, and other vehicles. There is a serious demand for reliable and cost-effective Over-the-Air (OTA) testing of wireless communications for vehicles and other automotive applications and between vehicles on the road. The RanLOS test system is a solution to this problem. It is a portable and accurate test system that can be placed in both existing test facilities and test tents. Together with RanLOS software, the hardware system is connected to standard measurement instruments and turntables, resulting in a smart and effective turnkey solution for car manufacturers aiming to create better connected cars.


For further information, please contact:
Louice Rosdahl, CEO
Email: louice.rosdahl@ranlos.com
Phone: +46 (0) 730-81 99 91

This information was submitted for publication through the agency of the contact person set out above, at 13.00 CET on February 22, 2024.


About RanLOS AB (publ)
RanLOS is an innovative provider of OTA test solutions for full-vehicle connectivity and antenna testing. The company was founded in 2016 by Professor Per-Simon Kildal, one of the world’s most influential antenna experts. Professor Kildal also founded the companies Bluetest and Gapwaves. RanLOS has its origins from Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, Sweden, and is listed on Nasdaq Stock Exchange. RanLOS aims to provide customers with the most cost-efficient and easy-to-use OTA test solutions. The patented hardware and proprietary software are based on several years of research and are designed to test all relevant standards such as 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi, and V2X.

For more information, visit RanLOS website: www.ranlos.com


RanLOS is listed on Nasdaq First North Growth Market. SKMG is RanLOS’ Certified Adviser.

Want to learn more?

Make sure to follow RanLOS at LinkedIn, have a look our latest news here or reach out to our employees. 

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Application Notes Educational

Maximizing communication quality: Unlocking the optimal antenna placement for cars

antenna placement on modern car
antenna placement on modern car

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2024-02-12
Application Note

Maximizing communication quality: Unlocking the optimal antenna placement for cars

To optimize the connectivity of the car, the position of the antennas is of high importance. In this application note, we explore how car manufacturers can maximize communication quality and unlocking the optimal antenna placement for cars.

antenna placement on modern car

Introduction

To optimize the connectivity of the car, the position of the antennas is of high importance. The car is normally made of metal parts which are acting as a ground plane, therefore the body of the car, i.e., the shape is very much affecting the antenna performance and thereby the connectivity. A relatively common vehicle antenna type is the shark-fin antenna that normally is placed on the roof of the car. It is important that the position of the antenna is optimized to get the best possible performance, both regarding the radiation pattern of the antenna and the connectivity.

The material of the roof has, of course, also a big impact on the overall performance of the system. The roof can be made of, for example, carbon fiber or glass (2). The roof can also be missing as in convertible cars (3), and then an alternative placement of the antenna is needed. This will for sure have an impact on the communication system performance.

An antenna mounted on a glass roof can be an attractive design but is not optimal for the performance of the communication system. The same applies to a car without a roof because the antenna must be placed in an alternative location, for example at the back of the car. In this application note, we will give examples on how different placements of the antenna can result in a reduction of the communication distance.

To be able to position the antenna with best possible communication quality as a result, there is a need of accurate test methods. Tests of a whole car are rather complex processes and expensive test facilities are needed. The needed test equipment is advanced and there is only a few of these test facilities available which make the verification cumbersome.

This is not a practical way forward; the engineers need to perform measurements throughout the whole development process. A misplaced antenna will result in unnecessary bad communication system performance such as, for example, to short communication distance and low communication capacity. RanLOS test setup is designed to be an easy-to-use measurement tool for antenna and throughput measurements. The test equipment is designed to be used in existing chambers or in open areas with weather protection. A long series of verifications and tests have been carried out to verify the quality of RanLOS test technology and these have shown that the technology is very reliable

Different antenna placements

The position of the antenna will give different communication performance. See the pictures below on different car models and antenna placements:

(1) Roof-mounted antenna with a position at the rear of the roof

(2) Modern car with glass or carbon fibre roof

(3) Cabriolet car without roof

Measurements with RanLOS test equipment

RanLOS test equipment is designed to be fitted into simple test sites or existing EMC chambers.

When the car is positioned in front of the RanLOS test setup, two different types of measurements can be performed to characterize the antenna and the quality of the wireless connection to the car…

Curious to learn more about how to maximize communication quality and unlock the optimal antenna placement for cars?
Make sure to download our free pdf version of the Application Note below. ✅

Download the full pdf for free here

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Make sure to follow RanLOS at LinkedIn, have a look our latest news here or reach out to our employees. 

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EP6: Executive Talks by RanLOS – Developments in the automotive industry

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2024-02-09

#6 - Executive Talks by RanLOS:

Developments in the automotive industry

In the latest episode of Executive Talks by RanLOS, we dive into the development of the global automotive industry, as well as how the transformative ACES trends could shape the industry. We aim to show how the ongoing developments in the automotive landscape foster new needs and therefore highlight why OTA and automotive testing solutions should be a vital part of the product development process for car manufacturers going forward.

China’s automotive impact and growth numbers for our markets 
Since 2008, China has been a global automotive powerhouse, surpassing the production figures of the USA, Europe, and Japan combined. Looking at the sales numbers in 2023, both China and India, are back at the same levels as they were pre-COVID.

Zooming into other locations globally, Japan had a remarkable growth in the first half of 2023. Europe, Korea, and other regions are also revving up, showcasing impressive developments with growth numbers during this period, according to VDA and others. See numbers below:

  • Japan: ≈ 20%
  • Europe: ≈ 18%
  • USA: ≈ 13%
  • Korea: ≈ 8%

Macro-economic landscape and inflation trends
A brief macroeconomic overview reveals a positive outlook with stable GDP growth across all regions, according to Statista. This reassuring news also shows that the anticipated decline in inflation in 2024 is especially notable in the USA and Europe. This economic stability will be vital going forward.

The ACES trends
Now, let’s explore the ACES trends and framework including these four pillars – Autonomous, Connectivity, Electrification, and Sharing. These aren’t just buzzwords; they symbolize the transformative forces driving the automotive industry, which includes how we perceive and interact with connected vehicles. Learn more about what ACES means here:

  • Autonomous (A): This refers to the development and integration of self-driving or autonomous vehicles. These vehicles leverage advanced technologies such as sensors, cameras, lidar, and artificial intelligence to navigate and operate without human intervention.
  • Connectivity (C): Connectivity revolves around the seamless communication between vehicles, infrastructure, and other devices. It involves integrating advanced communication technologies like 5G and V2X (vehicle-to-everything). Connected vehicles can share real-time data, enabling features such as traffic management, predictive maintenance, and improved overall driving experience.
  • Electrification (E): Electrification focuses on transitioning from traditional internal combustion engines to electric power. Electric vehicles (EVs) use rechargeable batteries as their primary energy source, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and decreasing environmental impact. This trend aims to create a more sustainable and eco-friendlier automotive ecosystem.
  • Sharing (S): The Sharing aspect pertains to the rise of collaborative and shared mobility solutions. This includes ridesharing services, car-sharing programs, and other innovative models that optimize vehicle usage, reduce congestion, and provide cost-effective alternatives to traditional ownership. The Sharing trend aligns with the shift towards a more efficient and sustainable transportation system.

RanLOS automotive testing solution: Cost-effective and accurate testing
The RanLOS OTA test system provides a solution to navigate and test the needs of connected vehicles. This user-friendly and cost-effective test solution can change the landscape of how connectivity testing is done in the automotive industry, reducing time to market, and enabling repeatable OTA and antenna testing at automakers’ own facilities. It’s a solution that can be used in both existing EMC chambers as well as test tents, which makes the RanLOS test system applicable to all car manufacturers. Learn more here: ranlos.com/automotive

Conclusion: Navigating the road ahead
In conclusion, the automotive industry is not just evolving; it’s undergoing a transformative journey. The technological advancements and developments ahead hold opportunities, where car manufacturers who focus on optimizing vehicle connectivity, which customers demand, will likely become the winners in the long run. For RanLOS, as 2024 unfolds with discussions and demonstrations, we aim to continue to shape how testing is done in the global automotive industry. Bringing cost-effective and accurate testing to car manufacturers worldwide.

Stay tuned for more analyses in the automotive industry and the latest news from RanLOS. 🚗💡

List of sources:

Want to learn more?

Make sure to follow RanLOS at LinkedIn, have a look our latest news here or reach out to our employees. 

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The Cost-Effective Benefits of OTA Testing for Automakers

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Last updated: 2024-01-24

The Cost-Effective Benefits of OTA Testing for Automakers in 2024

By performing OTA testing regularly, automakers can identify and fix issues before they become major problems. This helps to reduce costs during product development, speed up time to market and improve the overall quality of their vehicles. Learn about the importance of OTA testing for the automotive industry and the cost-effective benefits it brings.

ota-testing_automotive

The automotive industry is constantly evolving, requiring automakers to stay on top of the latest technology and trends to remain competitive. One of these trends is more connected vehicles, i.e. autonomous driving. An important part of ensuring reliable connectivity of these connected vehicles is Over-the-Air (OTA) testing. By running OTA tests regularly, automakers can identify and fix issues before they become major problems. This helps to reduce the cost of production, speed up time to market and improve the overall quality of their vehicles. 

What is OTA testing?
Over-the-air (OTA) testing is a crucial methodology employed to evaluate the performance and reliability of wireless devices, particularly those integrated with embedded antennas. This technique simulates real-world scenarios to assess the device’s ability to transmit and receive signals effectively under various conditions. OTA testing plays a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless operation of wireless devices, particularly in complex environments like vehicles.

Benefits of OTA testing
OTA testing can be done at different instances during product development, which allows automakers to identify and fix issues before they become major problems. This helps reduce production costs, as automakers can avoid costly repairs and recalls.

The OTA testing helps to ensure that the vehicles have reliable connectivity, which is crucial for customer satisfaction and loyalty. In a McKinsey & Co report, they highlight that 37% of car consumers are willing to change car brand due to bad connectivity, which indicate the importance of this topic.

OTA testing also goes beyond basic signal transmission and reception; it also simulates various real-world conditions that can impact wireless communication. These conditions may include movement, interference, and changes in environmental factors. This ensures that the DUT can operate reliably in the challenging environments it will encounter in the real world.

Conclusion
OTA testing is not merely a testing process; it is a strategic investment that automakers cannot afford to ignore. By embracing regular OTA testing at their own site, automakers can get a multitude of benefits, including reduced costs, accelerated time to market, enhanced vehicle performance, improved connectivity and safety, and the ability to embrace technological advancements. Therefore, OTA testing will undoubtedly play an increasingly pivotal role for car manufacturers who aim to reach their customers’ expectations in connectivity for 2024 and beyond.

And since our society becomes more connected every day, the expectations for vehicles will only get higher each year. Automakers responsibility is to make sure vehicles are tested properly during the whole product development, to maintain safety and reliability. process top priority. By performing these OTA tests regularly, with for example RanLOS test system, automakers can not only reduce the cost of production and improve the overall quality of their vehicles, but they can also contribute to a safer and better connected society. 

Data and Sources

  • In a survey by McKinsey & Company, 37% of car consumers reported that they would be willing to switch car brands due to bad connectivity.
  • According to a report by Statista, the global market for OTA testing is expected to reach $10 billion by 2027.
OTA test system-Measure antenna radiation-data throughput

RanLOS Sub-6 GHz test system for automotive OTA testing

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Make sure to follow RanLOS at LinkedIn, have a look our latest news here or reach out to our employees. 

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RanLOS utser Mangold Fondkommission till likviditetsgarant för bolagets aktie

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2024-01-10 (11.15 CET)
Gothenburg, Sweden

Press release – Regulatory

RanLOS utser Mangold Fondkommission till likviditetsgarant för bolagets aktie

RanLOS AB (publ) (”RanLOS” eller “Bolaget”) meddelar idag att bolaget har utsett Mangold Fondkommission till likviditetsgarant för bolagets aktie. Syftet med likviditetsgarantin är att förbättra likviditeten i aktien och minska skillnaden mellan köp- och säljkurs. Uppdraget påbörjas den 17 januari.

RanLOS-PR

Mangold kommer i sitt uppdrag som likviditetsgarant att säkerställa möjligheten att handla i Bolagets aktie varje dag genom att kontinuerligt ställa handelsposter på vardera köp- och säljsida i orderboken. En likviditetsgaranti ämnar skapa en mer korrekt prisbild i ett bolags aktie, vilket i följd ger en mer korrekt värdering av bolaget och ger möjlighet till en förbättrad handelsvolym i aktien.

För ytterligare information, vänligen kontakta:
Louice Rosdahl VD, RanLOS AB
E-post: louice.rosdahl@ranlos.com
Telefon: +46 (0) 730-81 99 91

Om RanLOS AB
RanLOS utvecklar innovativa och kostnadseffektiva mätsystem för testning av såväl antennsystem som connectivity hos fordon och andra uppkopplade enheter. RanLOS grundades 2016 av professor Per-Simon Kildal, en av de främsta antennexperterna i världen. Professor Kildal var verksam vid Chalmers Tekniska Högskola och grundade även bolagen Bluetest och Gapwaves. RanLOS patenterade lösning består av både hårdvara och mjukvara och är baserad på flera års forskning. Bolaget har återförsäljare över hela världen och är noterade på Nasdaq First North Growth Market. Läs mer på: www.ranlos.com

RanLOS aktie (RLOS B) är föremål för handel på Nasdaq First North Growth Market Stockholm med Aqurat Fondkommission AB som Certified Adviser, www.aqurat.se.

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RanLOS presents yearly review and update ahead of 2024

RanLOS yearly review 2023
RanLOS yearly review 2023

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2023-12-20 (16.00 CET)
Gothenburg, Sweden

Press release – Regulatory

RanLOS presents yearly review and update ahead of 2024

RanLOS is pleased to present an overview of the achievements and milestones attained over the last year. As we approach the close of 2023, we reflect on a period of promising developments and where we are right now. The efforts made during 2023 underscore the commitment we have to help our customers perform smarter and more cost-effective testing – aiming for a better connected world.

RanLOS key highlights of 2023:

  • International success: At the beginning of the year, RanLOS proudly delivered and installed the first test system in Japan, marking the beginning of an impactful year. Before summer, we sold our second test system to a leading European premium car manufacturer, further solidifying our presence in the market. It is a three-step delivery. The first one, which is also the largest one, was delivered and invoiced during the autumn of 2023.
  • Market expansion in Asia: During spring we intensified the efforts in China and Korea. We’ve had technical meetings and high interest from leading car manufacturers and suppliers, positioning RanLOS as a leading supplier of innovative test solutions.
  • Partnership with Anritsu: A major milestone in our journey was the establishment of a partnership with Anritsu, one of the largest suppliers of measurement instruments in the world. The collaboration resulted in an integration with our products, creating a new innovative solution for full-vehicle 5G testing, which attracted attention on a global scale. Our solution is the smartest and easiest today. It also comes with a fraction of the cost compared to our competitors’ solutions, which means it has the potential to be a standard on the market.
  • Media recognition: RanLOS marketing efforts spanned across all geographies and resulted in, for example, a cover story in Microwave Journal, the foremost global magazine in our industry. We also got great publicity for our article and solution with Anritsu. The article was translated into 5 different languages and spread around the world. The exposure in media during the last year is a testament that we have a high reach and reliability within the community.
  • Pipeline development: Beyond the product deliveries, we have actively focused on building a robust pipeline. Some customers have already chosen us as their preferred technical solution and are now applying for internal budgets, the estimated value for these deals counts to approximately 7MSEK. Successful demonstrations further contribute to our pipeline development, these deals have an estimated value of around 10MSEK. In addition, we have a lot of technical meetings and customers that are evaluating us. These ongoing evaluations by potential customers indicate a value of approximately 50MSEK.

Summary and anticipations for 2024:
As we conclude this year, RanLOS looks forward to the opportunities that lie ahead in 2024. The development of our pipeline positions us for continued success and helps in our commitment to deliver innovative and cost-effective solutions to customers around the world. RanLOS also remains dedicated to maximizing the value for all shareholders through strategic initiatives, product innovation, and market expansion.


For further information, please contact:
Louice Rosdahl, CEO
Email: louice.rosdahl@ranlos.com
Phone: +46 (0)730-81 99 91

This disclosure contains information that RanLOS is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact persons, on December 20, 2023, at 16:00 CET.

About RanLOS AB
RanLOS is an innovative provider of OTA test solutions for full-vehicle connectivity and antenna testing. The company was founded in 2016 by Professor Per-Simon Kildal, one of the world’s most influential antenna experts. Professor Kildal also founded the companies Bluetest and Gapwaves. RanLOS has its origins from Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, Sweden, and is listed on Nasdaq Stock Exchange. RanLOS aims to provide customers with the most cost-efficient and easy-to-use OTA test solutions. The patented hardware and proprietary software are based on several years of research and are designed to test all relevant standards such as 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi, and V2X.

For more information, visit RanLOS website: www.ranlos.com

RanLOS is listed on Nasdaq First North Growth Market. Aqurat is RanLOS’ Certified Adviser.

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RanLOS AB (publ) byter Certified Adviser till Svensk Kapitalmarknadsgranskning AB

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2023-12-19 (09.00 CET)
Göteborg, Sverige

Press release – Regulatorisk / Regulatory

RanLOS AB (publ) byter Certified Adviser till Svensk Kapitalmarknadsgranskning AB

RanLOS AB (publ) (”RanLOS” eller “Bolaget”) meddelar att Bolaget har ingått avtal med Svensk Kapitalmarknadsgranskning AB (”SKMG”) avseende tjänsten som Certified Adviser.

RanLOS-kallelse

SKMG tillträder som Certified Adviser den 1 februari 2024. Fram till dess kommer Aqurat Fondkommission AB fortsätta agera som Certified Adviser åt Bolaget. 

För ytterligare information kontakta: 
Louice Rosdahl, VD, RanLOS AB (publ)
Telefon: +46 (0)73 081 99 91
E-post: Louice.rosdahl@ranlos.com


Om RanLOS AB (publ) 
RanLOS utvecklar innovativa och kostnadseffektiva mätsystem för testning av såväl antennsystem som connectivity hos fordon och andra uppkopplade enheter. RanLOS grundades 2016 av professor Per-Simon Kildal, en av de främsta antennexperterna i världen. Professor Kildal var verksam vid Chalmers Tekniska Högskola och grundade även bolagen Bluetest och Gapwaves. RanLOS patenterade lösning består av både hårdvara och mjukvara och är baserad på flera års forskning. Bolaget har återförsäljare över hela världen och är noterade på Nasdaq First North Growth Market. Läs mer på: www.ranlos.com

RanLOS aktie (RLOS B) är föremål för handel på Nasdaq First North Growth Market Stockholm med Aqurat Fondkommission som Certified Adviser, www.aqurat.se.

Om RanLOS

RanLOS utvecklar innovativa och kostnadseffektiva mätsystem för testning av såväl antennsystem som connectivity hos fordon och andra uppkopplade enheter. RanLOS grundades 2016 av professor Per-Simon Kildal, en av de främsta antennexperterna i världen. Professor Kildal var verksam vid Chalmers Tekniska Högskola och grundade även bolagen Bluetest och Gapwaves. RanLOS patenterade lösning består av både hårdvara och mjukvara och är baserad på flera års forskning. Bolaget har återförsäljare över hela världen och är noterade på Nasdaq First North Growth Market. Läs mer på: www.ranlos.com

Contact

Louice Rosdahl
CEO, RanLOS

louice.rosdahl@ranlos.com
+46 (0)73-081 99 91

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RanLOS and Anritsu unveil innovative 5G vehicle OTA test solution

RanLOS-5G-OTA Testing
RanLOS Innovative 5G Vehicle OTA Test Solution​

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2023-11-09

RanLOS and Anritsu unveil innovative 5G vehicle OTA test solution

Versatile and cost-effective antenna OTA test solution designed for seamless integration with existing EMC chambers

RanLOS, TOYO Corporation (TOYO), AeroGT Labs, and Anritsu today announced the availability of the first 5G antenna over-the-air (OTA) measurement system engineered with RanLOS’ OTA test solution and Anritsu’s 5G Radio Communication Test Station MT8000A. The new system represents a significant step forward in enabling advancements in 5G connected vehicles.

RanLOS-5G-OTA Testing

As autonomous driving gains momentum, and the demand for connected vehicles surge, the adoption of 5G for automotive use comes with performance requirements for successful implementation. To enable the seamless flow of dynamic, real-time data communication, highly reliable antenna performance is a key necessity to ensure the safety of autonomous and connected vehicles and to enable advanced infotainment. This requirement is addressed by optimizing and validating antenna design and installation on a vehicle. However, to accomplish this critical task, design engineers need a consistent, reliable, and controllable test environment that can emulate real-world conditions.

RanLOS and Anritsu collaborated to meet this need by integrating a portable antenna test system with a wide dynamic range base station simulation. The combined solution supports the measurement of throughput and antenna radiation patterns under static conditions and the evaluation of throughput degradation in vehicles operating on a dynamometer. It is well-suited for assessing the performance of antennas on transportation vehicles such as automobiles, vans, minibuses, and autonomous transport systems. What sets the solution apart is its distinctive capability to be seamlessly integrated into pre-existing EMC chambers, providing manufacturers with an opportunity to establish an essential testing environment while keeping the initial investment to a minimum.

As measurement solution providers, TOYO and AeroGT Labs, a TOYO-affiliated company specializing in OTA measurements, view this solution as an optimal choice for customers requiring a 5G OTA measurement solution for advancing next-generation mobility. Drawing from their broad EMC and antenna measurement business experiences, TOYO and AeroGT Labs lead the go-to-market efforts.

“It’s a major step to have 5G capabilities integrated into our offering”, comments Louice Rosdahl, CEO of RanLOS. “5G is 100 times faster than 4G at peak speed and will be an enabler for safer connected cars. We are grateful for the collaboration with Anritsu and look forward to delivering the benefits of this new offering to our users and customers.”

“While the 5G wireless communication quality evaluation is indispensable for the development of the next-generation mobility including connected and autonomous vehicles, no standard test method has been established. In this context, the solution created by integrating Anritsu and RanLOS products offers a simple and intelligent way to evaluate the 5G on-vehicle wireless communications and minimize initial investment,” said Yoshimichi Imaizumi, Director, Senior VP at TOYO. “By promoting this sophisticated yet cost-effective solution to the mobility industry, we contribute to the building of a safer and more trusted traffic network.”

“As transportation vehicles advance further toward an all-interconnected future, holistically evaluating and gauging 5G antenna performance in connected vehicles becomes more than a benchmarking and testing effort,” said Steve Wong, Chief Marketing Officer at AeroGT Labs. “This critical process lays the foundation for a transportation future characterized by elevated safety and enhanced efficiency.”

“This leading technology is the result of our partnership with RanLOS,” said Takeshi Shima, Director, Senior Vice President, Test & Measurement Company President at Anritsu. “By integrating the Anritsu MT8000A 5G network simulator with the RanLOS system, we offer the automobile test marketplace an advanced solution with technologically and cost-effective benefits. With the constant and rapid progress in autonomous services, in-vehicle antenna performance significantly matters. The solution ultimately equates to an improved user experience, which benefits the evolution of widely spreading smart society. We are thrilled to promote it globally, collaborating with TOYO and AeroGT Labs.”

The 5G antenna OTA measurement solution is shipping now.  Please contact any one of the companies named in this news release for further information or to book a demo.

About RanLOS

RanLOS is an innovative provider of OTA test solutions for full-vehicle connectivity and antenna testing. The company was founded in 2016 by Professor Per-Simon Kildal, one of the world’s most influential antenna experts. RanLOS has its origins from Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, Sweden and is listed on Nasdaq Stock Exchange. RanLOS aims to provide customers with the most cost-efficient and easy-to-use OTA test solutions. The hardware and proprietary software are based on several years of research and are designed to test all relevant standards such as 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi, and V2X. Read more at: https://ranlos.com

About TOYO Corporation

Founded in 1953, TOYO Corporation (Head Office: Tokyo, Japan) contributes to technological innovations as a leading provider of advanced measurement solutions. Through its variety of business segments – ICT (Information and Communication Technologies), Automobiles, Energy, EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility), Ocean Defense and Security, Software Development, Life Science, and Information Security, the company is focused on providing solutions to emerging markets such as 5G network, clean energy, autonomous vehicle development. TOYO also makes significant R&D investments to develop in-house technologies and products. Its growth strategies include developing its market presence in the United States and China and TOYO has established subsidiaries in both of these important markets. By making available the most advanced market-based solutions, TOYO is at the forefront of helping to shape a safe and environmentally friendly society and develop industries. For more information, please visit the company’s website at  https://www.toyo.co.jp/english

About AeroGT Labs

Headquartered in northern California and with satellite offices around the world, AeroGT Labs (https://aerogtlabs.com/) is a global provider of Over-the-Air (OTA) measurement solutions. Our patented products and solutions are used by leading automotive, consumer electronics, and medical device manufacturers to help them accelerate their product development cycles and ultimately develop higher-quality products. The techniques and technologies used in a number of our automotive test solutions have been adopted by several standards bodies including the 3GPP organization.

About Anritsu

Anritsu (https://www.anritsu.com) is a provider of innovative communications test and measurement solutions. Anritsu engages customers as true partners to help develop wireless, optical, microwave/RF, and digital solutions for R&D, manufacturing, installation, and maintenance applications, as well as multidimensional service assurance solutions for network monitoring and optimization. Anritsu also provides precision microwave/RF components, optical devices, and high-speed electrical devices for communication products and systems. The company develops advanced solutions for emerging and legacy wireline and wireless technologies used in commercial, private, military/aerospace, government, and other markets.

Want to learn more?

Make sure to follow RanLOS at LinkedIn, have a look our latest news here or reach out to our employees. 

Contacts at RanLOS
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Compact Antenna Test Range (CATR) solution for full-vehicle antenna testing

antenna-test-range-catr-ranlos

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2023-11-08 
White paper

Cost-effective Compact Antenna Test Range (CATR) solution for full-vehicle antenna testing

This white paper explores the benefits of using RanLOS Compact Antenna Test Range (CATR) solution for full-vehicle antenna testing. RanLOS’s cost-effective CATR solution helps test engineers and automakers to measure connectivity and antenna performance more efficiently during the product development process.

RanLOS-ota-test-system_CATR-solution

The benefits of Compact Antenna Test Range (CATR) measurements

Compact Antenna Test Range (CATR) can be used to measure large devices such as cars, at a significantly shorter distance than in traditional far-field test ranges. A source antenna (feed) is used to radiate a spherical wave in the direction of a reflector, that transforms the wave into a plane wave. The device under test (DUT) is illuminated by the plane wave and a far-field measurement can hence be performed. 

When performing frequent testing, accuracy and efficiency are equally important. Traditional far-field test ranges, while effective, often require substantial distances to accurately measure large devices such as vehicles. However, the CATR solution has made it easier, enabling engineers and researchers to conduct measurements at significantly shorter distances without compromising accuracy.

Introducing the RanLOS CATR Solution

The RanLOS test system consists of a cylindrical reflector fed by a linear array of dual-polarized antennas. The reflector is 4.2 meters wide and 3.15 meters tall and can be used to measure a wide range of frequencies. Compared to many other CATR methods, RanLOS has a more flexible solution. The RanLOS test system is easy to install and can be added to already existing EMC chambers. For RanLOS test system the feed is mounted together with the reflector. This means no complicated and time-consuming feed alignment during the installation is needed. Together with the fact that the system is portable on wheels, it is easy to upgrade existing EMC chambers by just rolling in the system. The cylindrically shaped reflector is also scalable in width and can be made in sections and is less expensive to manufacture compared to double-curved reflectors. 

The RanLOS system generates a single plane wave. This plane wave is incident on the equipment under test (EUT) from an incident angle determined by the rotation of the EUT. The polarization of the incident wave can be either linear or elliptical (e.g., circular), depending on how the two ports on the RanLOS system are fed. RanLOS software controls the whole process, from calibration, and controlling the turntable or positioner, to measurement and data plotting and analysis. The user gets full control over the whole test process and can easily perform a measurement in 5 easy steps. The system enables far-field measurements of full vehicles, antennas, communication systems, base stations, and other connected devices at only a few meters distance. The RanLOS software is compatible with all standard Vector Network Analyzers and Communication Testers. The software also supports positioner controllers from major manufacturers and adding new functions and/or instrument drivers is easy. 

antenna-test-range-catr-ranlos
Download our full CATR White Paper here

Viable for Existing Anechoic EMC Chambers
In a typical far-field anechoic chamber, the electromagnetic field radiated from the transmitting antenna propagates as a spherical wave and reaches the test area, the quiet zone. At this time, even in an anechoic chamber, in addition to direct waves from the transmitting antenna, reflected waves from the floor, ceiling, and side walls simultaneously enter the test zone. This results in a distribution of amplitude and phase fluctuations within the test zone, depending on the strength and phase of the reflected waves. 

Due to these reasons, a better solution is to use a CATR system. The CATR system generates plane waves where the radiated power, in directions other than the front direction, is smaller than the radiation from the transmitting antenna in a normal far-field anechoic chamber. In other words, the propagation is less affected by the floor, ceiling, and side walls. 

In normal spherical wave propagation in a far-field anechoic chamber, there is a free space loss in which the received power decreases with distance because the surface area of the spherical wave increases with distance and the power density decreases. 

In the CATR environment, since it is a plane wave, the power density does not change with respect to the distance in the depth direction within the test zone. That is, the received power at the front and back edges of the test zone is the same. Meaning that the RanLOS CATR solution is a perfect solution for existing anechoic EMC chambers.

Precision in a compact form 
With a reflector height of 3.15 meters, the RanLOS CATR system can be efficiently deployed in smaller chambers or testing environments, saving valuable space and facility investments without compromising measurement accuracy. RanLOS reflector is a very cost-efficient solution to enable far-field measurements. Crafted from precision-engineered carbon fiber, the reflector boasts exceptional durability and precision, ensuring long-lasting performance and minimal maintenance requirements. 

RanLOS-CATR-solution_test-tent

Modularity for Frequency Versatility
RanLOS has a modular design using different antenna arrays (feed arrays) to measure desired frequency while using the same reflector. The feed array is easily exchangeable, and it covers an octave bandwidth. To cover the 0.7 to 6 GHz frequency band, the most used frequencies for vehicular communication systems today, three feed arrays are needed. Feed arrays for higher frequencies are on the roadmap, so existing customers can easily upgrade with no need to alter the reflector. This adaptability ensures that RanLOS can effectively accommodate a wide spectrum of frequencies, making it a versatile choice for researchers and engineers working on diverse projects.

Invaluable data for decision-making 
The RanLOS system is used to do Over-the-Air (OTA) measurements and can measure, for example, how antennas radiate in different directions (antenna radiation pattern) or the quality of a communication system. This is important information for the engineer in order to understand how, for example, vehicles receive and transmit data (connectivity/throughput). 

Antenna radiation patterns can be presented in a polar graph (see Figure 1). The graph makes it possible to detect weak directions where the antenna has inferior performance. In the graph in Figure 1 the red trace represents the radiation pattern with the antenna placed at the back of the roof, and the blue when the antenna is moved to the front of the roof. As can be seen in the graph, it is not only the antenna design that is of importance but also the position of the antenna. Therefore, it is important for the design engineer to have a tool to understand the impact of both the antenna design and its position on the vehicle. 

The quality of the wireless connection can be measured with a Radio Communication Tester, simulating wireless communication with a vehicle under test. The test result is presented in a throughput graph (see Figure 2). The graph presents the data throughput as a function of power for one angle. In this graph, it’s possible to identify the receiver threshold which could, e.g., be defined as the received power level when the throughput is 50% of maximum. This is an important quality parameter of the communication system. As can be seen in Figure 2 the step from 100% to 0% throughput is very steep, and therefore the threshold is rather easy to find and a practical parameter to be used in the engineering work. It is also possible to measure and present the throughput for a full 360-degree revolution. 

In Figure 3 it can be seen that the position of the antenna at the back of the roof is better for all directions except towards the forward direction, where the front positioned antenna has better coverage. For example, when the signal is transmitted/received towards the side, at a 100-degree angle, the difference is approximately 15 dB. If the throughput of the communication system is measured and presented at this angle the result is as in the throughput graph in Figure 4. The threshold clearly shows a worse communication quality, at this angle, when the antenna is placed at the front of the roof. 

By using the threshold value together with Friis transmission formula it is possible to compute the maximum communication distance and thus the overall wireless performance of the vehicle. This important information can be obtained by adding, and using, the RanLOS test system in existing EMC chambers. In this way, it is possible to optimize the antenna’s position and compare different antennas and communication systems to improve the overall communication quality. See RanLOS Application Note: “Maximizing communication quality: Unlocking the optimal antenna placement for cars” for more details. 

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catr-antenna
catr-antenna-throughput

Based on many years of research with a focus on best performance vs price 
RanLOS has its origins in several years of research and development at Chalmers University of Technology and was established by Professor Per-Simon Kildal in 2016. Professor Kildal was one of the foremost antenna experts in the world. 

RanLOS holds patents globally and is recognized as an innovative supplier of CATR test systems for large test objects. RanLOS has been part of many different research projects where the products have been validated together with both customers and academia. 

Below is a comparison between measurements done using the RanLOS test system and an accredited test facility using an NF-FF system. The device under test was an antenna mounted on the roof of a vehicle body. The measurement results show how RanLOS technology is reliable with results in line with advanced test facilities. These measurements, as well as many additional validation measurements, were performed during the Swedish government-funded project “Simulation and Verification of Wireless Technologies” (SIVERT).

RanLOS OTA test system vs
NF-FF test facility

Comparison between measurements using the RanLOS OTA test system and an accredited test facility using an NF-FF system. The measurements were of an antenna mounted on the roof of a vehicle.

The measurements show that the results from the RanLOS setup are a reliable solution compared to bigger, more expensive, test facilities. These measurements were done during SIVERT - a FFI-Vinnova project.
RanLOS Sub-6 GHz
Accredited test facility
Increased future testing needs

There is an ongoing change where wireless systems are becoming more advanced and will require increasingly more tests in order to be verified. This places new demands on the measuring equipment in the lab and a need for efficient and affordable test solutions. 

Only a handful of car manufacturers around the world have invested in their own test systems to measure connectivity on an ongoing basis. It is expensive, time-consuming, and difficult to calculate the return on investment with existing solutions. The consequence is that tests are done late in the development process, for example when the car can be driven on public roads or a test track. 

RanLOS equipment is not intended as a certification system but as a tool to be used continuously during the product development process. The system is a complement during the development process and is used to optimize performance and prepare for certification. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, CATR has made testing more versatile by enabling measurements at shorter distances. RanLOS aim is to make testing simple, accessible, and cost-effective. With RanLOS’ affordable solution, testing can be done every day if needed. In this way, customers can detect problems early and save both time and money by shortening their time to market and launching cars that meet the buyers’ high demands. 

RanLOS solution has many advantages:

  • RanLOS CATR system is a perfect solution for existing EMC chambers since the characteristics of the plane wave results in that the propagation is less affected by floor, ceiling, and side walls and the power density does not change in the depth. 

  • By using existing facilities, costs can be reduced without the need to construct a new anechoic chamber for antenna testing. 

  • RanLOS uses a patented cylindrically shaped reflector that is less expensive to manufacture compared to double-curved reflectors and it is scalable in width and can be made in sections. 

  • Test frequencies can be changed by easily replacing the feed array. (Realignment work is not required as only the antenna array at the reflector focus is replaced.) 

  • By combining the turntable with a chassis dynamometer installed in the vehicle EMC anechoic chamber, it is possible to test the vehicle in driving mode and regeneration mode. 

  • It is possible to combine ADAS functional testing and V2X communication quality evaluation.

Download our full CATR White Paper here

Want to learn more?

Make sure to follow RanLOS at LinkedIn, have a look our latest news here or reach out to our employees. 

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Innovative and cost-effective method to measure vehicle antenna radiation patterns and data throughput

OTA test system-Measure antenna radiation-data throughput

Home > News

2023-11-01 

Innovative and cost-effective method to measure vehicle antenna radiation patterns and data throughput

This is a summary based on the article “A Cost-Effective Method to Measure Vehicle Antenna Radiation Patterns and Data Throughput” published as a cover feature in the well-reputed Microwave Journal. The article dives into the ideas and technology behind the RanLOS OTA test system and how it enables test engineers to measure both over-the-air (OTA) data throughput and antenna radiation patterns in a smart and cost-efficient way. 

OTA test system-Measure antenna radiation-data throughput
Download the full article from Microwave Journal here

In an era where vehicles are increasingly reliant on reliable radio communication, for safety to software updates and entertainment services, optimizing antenna performance and connectivity has become pivotal. Even so, only a handful of vehicle manufacturers around the world have invested in test systems, since conventional systems are complex, and require special facilities and large investments. RanLOS offers a cost-effective and easy-to-use alternative solution.

The challenge of testing antenna systems

Vehicle manufacturers have historically relied on drive tests on public roads or test tracks, to evaluate the performance of the vehicle’s communication system, but this method has several limitations. Drive tests represent real-world conditions simply because they are performed in the real world. However, they are not repeatable due to the changing environment and disturbances, which makes it difficult to assess the communication system’s performance accurately. Additionally, these tests can only be conducted on nearly finished vehicles.

To overcome these challenges, alternative approaches have been proposed, such as simulating the environment in a laboratory setup. This involves placing multiple antennas in specific configurations around the vehicle and feeding them with signals to mimic real-world conditions. However, determining which environments to simulate and ensuring the worst-case scenario is accurately represented, remain significant challenges.

In 2000, Professor Per-Simon Kildal founded Bluetest to address these challenges by developing reverberation chambers for testing mobile devices in rich isotropic multipath (RIMP) environments. These chambers replicated complex multipath scenarios but didn’t account for line-of-sight (LOS) conditions, essential for testing point-to-point communication links. To address this gap RanLOS was established in 2016, with the aim to develop cost-effective and smart solutions for testing LOS edge environments. Professor Kildal’s hypothesis was that all real environments could be described as something in between the two edge environments (RIMP and LOS). Hence, devices tested with good results in both edge environments would excel in real-world scenarios.

RanLOS test system and applications

The RanLOS compact antenna test range (CATR) system consists of a cylindrical reflector with a linear array of dual-polarized antennas, creating a plane wave (far-field conditions) at a short distance. The test system is controlled by RanLOS software that interfaces with measurement instruments and turntables. Supported instruments include vector network analyzers (VNAs) and communication testers. The test system’s feed array is easily interchangeable, covering the 0.7 to 6 GHz frequency band, and suitable for vehicular communication. Higher frequencies are on the roadmap. The test system is portable and can easily be rolled into existing EMC chambers. 

Measure vehicle antenna radiation pattern and data throughput

Measurements that can be performed:

  • Antenna Radiation Pattern Measurements
    The RanLOS OTA test system allows for the measurement of antenna radiation patterns. By placing the vehicle on a turntable in front of the reflector, the system can replicate the LOS edge environment. This enables the measurement of far-field parameters, such as the antenna gain pattern of a vehicle-mounted antenna. The measurements can be performed in minutes, providing a practical engineering tool for assessing antenna performance. These types of measurements require access to the antenna port of the antenna to be measured, and a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA).
  • Connectivity Measurements 

    In modern vehicles, integrating antennas with radio modules can make direct access to antenna ports challenging. In such cases, OTA measurements can be performed by connecting a communication tester to the RanLOS system. This allows for the assessment of characteristics like data throughput. RanLOS system can also be used in conjunction with a dynamometer enabling the vehicle to be in full operation. Then, eventual influence on the communication link caused by disturbances from the vehicle’s electronic control units can be evaluated. Measurements can also show communication performance for different vehicle orientations, giving valuable insight into best- and worst-case communication distances. Identifying these variations is crucial for ensuring consistent connectivity, especially in safety-critical systems.

Conclusion

The RanLOS OTA test system is a unique and cost-effective solution to measure antenna performance and connectivity for vehicles. Its mobility and compatibility with existing EMC chambers make it a valuable engineering tool. It can be used throughout the whole product development process to optimize antenna performance and connectivity quality.

Download the full article from Microwave Journal here

RanLOS OTA test system vs
NF-FF test facility

Comparison between measurements using the RanLOS OTA test system and an accredited test facility using an NF-FF system. The measurements were of an antenna mounted on the roof of a vehicle.

The measurements show that the results from the RanLOS setup are a reliable solution compared to bigger, more expensive, test facilities. These measurements were done during SIVERT - a FFI-Vinnova project.
RanLOS Sub-6 GHz
Accredited test facility

Sources and more from Microwave Journal:

  • Frequency Matters, Sept 15: Automotive Issue: Watch this episode here. 
  • Digital Edition of the September issue with RanLOS as a cover feature. Read here. 
  • RanLOS article “A Cost-Effective Method to Measure Vehicle Antenna Radiation Patterns and Data Throughput” in Microwave Journal can also be found here.

Want to learn more?

Make sure to follow RanLOS at LinkedIn, have a look our latest news here or reach out to our employees. 

Contacts at RanLOS
LinkedIn Page

Other news & articles

We aim to create a better connected society. To do so we need easy-to-use and flexible solutions for testing wireless performance over-the-air (OTA). It includes all relevant standards today and tomorrow; such as 4G, 5G, WiFi, and V2X. 

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We aim to create a better connected society. To do so we need easy-to-use and flexible solutions for testing wireless performance over-the-air (OTA). It includes all relevant standards today and tomorrow; such as 3G, 4G, 5G, and WiFi. Work with us and start measuring easier, faster and smarter. 

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Application Note - free download

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