Antenna for satellite receiver

Abstract

Each antenna element within the array (703) is oriented substantially coplanar with respect to the other antenna elements. The array (703) covers the first dielectric substrate. The ground plane layer (704) is spaced apart from the array of antenna elements (703) by a first dielectric spacer (707). The beamforming layer (702) is spaced apart from the array of antenna elements (703) by a second dielectric spacer (706). The beamforming layer (702) has a set of conductive beamforming antenna elements covering the second dielectric substrate. The combining network is configured for combining electromagnetic signal components received from the array (703), wherein the combining network cooperates to generate or receive a radiation pattern that is substantially circularly polarized at a target wavelength range.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 385,416 filed on November 30, 2022 and U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 18 / 448,225 filed on August 11, 2023, which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an antenna for a satellite receiver. Background Art

[0004] In some background art, antennas for satellite receivers may provide performance that may be affected by polarization of received signals or parasitic coupling with reflectors. For example, the background art includes antennas such as U.S. Pat. No. 9,379,453, U.S. Pat. No. 10,923,810, and U.S. Pat. No. 11,165,167. An antenna system is needed that is capable of receiving right-handed polarized signals or circularly polarized signals with actively coupled beamforming and having a front-to-back ratio that facilitates some isolation of vehicle electronics associated with electromagnetic noise and interference, such as semiconductor switches used to control electric machinery. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to one embodiment, an antenna system includes an array assembly of metallic antenna elements for radiating or receiving substantially circularly polarized electromagnetic signal components within a target wavelength range. Each antenna element within the array assembly is oriented to be substantially coplanar with respect to the other antenna elements in the array assembly. The array of antenna elements covers a first dielectric substrate. A ground plane assembly is spaced apart from the array assembly of antenna elements by a first dielectric spacer (e.g., vertically spaced apart downward). A beamforming layer assembly is spaced apart from the array assembly of antenna elements by a second dielectric spacer (e.g., vertically spaced apart upward). The beamforming layer assembly has a set of conductive beamforming antenna elements covering the second dielectric substrate.

[0006] According to another aspect of the antenna system, a combining network (e.g., a combining circuit) is configured to combine electromagnetic signal components received from an array assembly, wherein the combining network cooperates to produce or receive a radiation pattern that is substantially circularly polarized at a target wavelength range. A first conductive post (e.g., an outer conductive sleeve) is configured to provide respective electrical couplings between the combining network of a ground plane assembly and an array of antenna elements; and a second conductive post (e.g., an inner conductive sleeve) is configured to provide respective electrical couplings between the array of antenna elements and a beamforming layer assembly.

[0007] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the first conductive post, the second conductive post, or both may include a monopole that contributes to a vertically polarized component of a substantially circularly polarized radiation pattern. At the same time, the array of antenna elements, or the array of antenna elements together with the beamforming layer assembly, provides or contributes to a radially polarized component of the substantially circularly polarized radiation pattern of the antenna. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 is a top perspective exploded view of one embodiment of an antenna system.

[0009] Figure 2 is based on Figure 1 A plan view (eg, top view or bottom view) of an array (assembly) of metallic antenna elements of an antenna system.

[0010] Figure 3 is based on Figure 1 A plan view (e.g., top view or bottom view) of a beamforming layer component of an antenna system.

[0011] Figure 4A is used for Figure 1 Block diagram of a first embodiment of a signal combining network for an antenna system.

[0012] Figure 4B is used for Figure 1 Block diagram of a second embodiment of a signal combining network for an antenna system.

[0013] Figure 4C is used for Figure 1 Block diagram of a third embodiment of a signal combining network for an antenna system.

[0014] Figure 4D is used for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the impedance matching network of the antenna system.

[0015] Figure 5 is used for Figure 1 Graph of isotropic gain versus elevation angle at a single representative azimuth angle for an illustrative embodiment of an antenna system.

[0016] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a graph of axial ratio versus elevation angle for an illustrative embodiment of an antenna system of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] According to one embodiment, the antenna system 111 includes an array of metallic antenna elements 112 for radiating or receiving electromagnetic signals, such as substantially radially polarized signal components or substantially circularly polarized electromagnetic signal components within a target wavelength range (or equivalently a target frequency range). Each antenna element 112 within the array (e.g., array assembly 703) is oriented to be substantially coplanar with respect to the other antenna elements 112.

[0018] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the array assembly 703 (e.g., a radiating layer) may include an array of antenna elements 112, a first dielectric substrate 14, or both. The array of antenna elements 112 covers the first dielectric substrate 14. The first dielectric substrate 14 may represent a layer separate from the array of metallic antenna elements 112 within a series of laminated or adjacent layers (e.g., a stratum). As used throughout this document, unless expressly stated otherwise, "substantially," "approximately," or "approximately" means a tolerance of plus or minus ten percent of a parameter, angle, dimension, or measurement result.

[0019] exist Figure 1 , the ground plane component 704 is spaced apart (e.g., vertically downwardly spaced apart) from the array component 703 of the antenna elements 112 by a first dielectric spacer 707. The beamforming layer (component) 702 is spaced apart from the array component 703 of the antenna elements 112 by a second dielectric spacer 706. Figure 3 As best shown in FIG. 1 , the beamforming layer (assembly) 702 has a set of conductive beamforming antenna elements 16 covering a second dielectric substrate 19 .

[0020] The ground plane assembly 704 may include a circuit board on which the combining network (211, 311, 411) may be integrated, arranged or mounted. The combining network (211, 311, 411) provides an interface between the antenna of the antenna system 111 and a transmission line (e.g., a coaxial cable) that may be connected to a receiver port.

[0021] The combining network (211, 311, 411) may include one or more of the following: a signal combining circuit, an impedance matching circuit, a phase shifter, a mixer, a combiner, a hybrid combiner, a 90-degree hybrid combiner, a 180-degree hybrid combiner, a separator, an in-phase separator, an isolator, a circulator, an amplifier, a low-noise amplifier, a filter, an attenuator, etc. The combining network (211, 311, 411) is configured to combine received electromagnetic signal components or received signal contributions from one or more of the following: (a) antenna elements 112 of the array assembly 703, (b) beamforming antenna elements 16 of the beamforming layer (assembly) 702, (c) a first conductive post 24 (e.g., a first metal sleeve), (d) a second conductive post 26 (e.g., a second metal sleeve), (e) any combination of items a to d; in addition, the combining network (211, 311, 411) cooperates to produce or receive a radiation pattern that is substantially circularly polarized (e.g., right-hand circularly polarized) at a target wavelength range.

[0022] In one embodiment, the first conductive post 24 (e.g., outer conductive sleeve) is configured to provide respective electrical coupling (e.g., electrical connection and mechanical connection) between the combined network (211, 311, 411) of the ground plane assembly 704 and the array of antenna elements 112; the second conductive post 26 (e.g., inner conductive sleeve) is configured to provide respective electrical coupling (e.g., electrical connection and mechanical connection) between the array of antenna elements 112 and the beamforming layer (assembly) 702. In some configurations, the first conductive post 24 is held by a first dielectric spacer 707 (e.g., dielectric holder), and the second conductive post 26 is held by a second dielectric spacer 706 (e.g., second holder).

[0023] In another aspect of the present disclosure (e.g., in some embodiments), the first conductive post 24, the second conductive post 26, or both may include a monopole antenna element that contributes to a vertically polarized component of the aggregated substantially circularly polarized radiation pattern (e.g., in a far field suitable for receiving satellite or other communication signals). At the same time, the array assembly 703 of antenna elements 112 or the array of antenna elements 112 together with the beamforming layer 702 provide or contribute to a radially polarized component of the substantially circularly polarized radiation pattern (e.g., in a far field suitable for receiving satellite or other communication signals).

[0024] The ground plane component 704 is spaced apart (e.g., vertically downwardly spaced apart) from an array component 703 (e.g., a radiating layer component) including an array of antenna elements 112 by a first dielectric spacer 707 alone or in combination with the first conductive post 24. For example, Figure 1As shown, the first dielectric spacer 707 may include a frame having a substantially polygonal border 753 with internal structural supports 755 (e.g., a grid), wherein the polygonal border 753 (e.g., with one or more associated peripheral flanges) has vertical holes or (substantially) cylindrical recesses 754 to receive, accept or retain a post, sleeve (24), fastener, substantially polygonal or substantially cylindrical member. The first dielectric spacer 707 may be composed of plastic, polymer or composite material, wherein composite material refers to a plastic or polymer matrix with fillers (such as glass fibers, ceramic materials or polymer fibers).

[0025] The beamforming layer assembly 702 is spaced apart (e.g., vertically upwardly spaced apart) from an array assembly 703 including an array of antenna elements 112 by a second dielectric spacer 706 alone or in combination with a second conductive post 26. Figure 1 As shown, the second dielectric spacer 706 may include a frame having a polygonal boundary 756 (e.g., a generally rectangular boundary) with an internal structural support 757, wherein the polygonal boundary 756 (e.g., a rectangular boundary) has a vertical hole or (generally cylindrical) recess 758 to receive, accept or retain a post, sleeve (26), fastener, generally polygonal or generally cylindrical member. The second dielectric spacer 706 may be composed of plastic, polymer or composite material, wherein composite material refers to a plastic or polymer matrix with fillers (such as glass fibers, ceramic materials or polymer fibers).

[0026] exist Figure 3 In the embodiment of the present invention, the beamforming layer assembly 702 has a set of conductive beamforming antenna elements 16 covering a second dielectric substrate 19.

[0027] exist Figure 4A , Figure 4B or Figure 4C In the embodiment of the present invention, the combining network (211, 311, 411) is configured to combine electromagnetic signal components received from the array of antenna elements 112, wherein the combining network (211, 311, 411) cooperates to produce or receive a (target) radiation pattern (i.e., an aggregate radiation pattern in the far field, which is suitable for receiving electromagnetic signals) that is substantially circularly polarized at a target wavelength range. In addition, the combining network (211, 311, 411) can be formed, mounted or integrated into the ground plane assembly 704 or a circuit board of the ground plane assembly 704.

[0028] In one embodiment, the ground plane assembly 704 includes a circuit board having a first side 751 and a second side 752 opposite the first side, wherein the circuit board includes a dielectric substrate and conductive traces on the first side 751, the second side 752, or both. For example, on the first side 751 (e.g., the upper side facing the antenna element 112), a conductive metal ground plane covers at least a portion of the first side 751; on the second side 752 (e.g., the lower side) of the ground plane assembly, a circuit of the combining network (211, 311, 411) is provided, bonded, supported, or defined. For example, the second side 752 of the circuit board may include conductive traces that provide electrical connections to the circuit of the combining network (211, 311, 411).

[0029] refer to Figure 2 In the array assembly 703 (e.g., a radiating layer assembly), each metallic antenna element 112 has an individual first outer edge 33, which means an individual first outline, footprint of the corresponding antenna element 112. Collectively, the array of antenna elements 112 has a first outer edge 33 (e.g., a polymeric first outer edge), which means a polymeric or common first outline, area, or footprint of the complete array of metallic antenna elements 112, wherein each antenna element 112 is separated from adjacent antenna elements 112 by an intermediate dielectric region 35 or an isolation dielectric region of the substrate 14.

[0030] In one embodiment, the ground plane assembly 704 may include a metal foil or metal ground layer covering a dielectric substrate, such as a first side 751 of a circuit board of the ground plane assembly 704. For example, in some embodiments, the metal ground layer and the dielectric substrate together define a circuit board of the ground plane assembly 704. In addition, the ground plane assembly 704 includes a metal layer that extends radially outward relative to the central vertical axis 23 to approximately the same extent that the outermost perimeter of the array assembly 703 extends radially outward from the central vertical axis 23. As used throughout this document, unless expressly stated otherwise, "substantially," "approximately," or "approximately" means a tolerance of plus or minus ten percent for any angle, dimension, characteristic, or other parameter.

[0031] In an alternative embodiment, the ground plane assembly 704 may include a substantially planar sheet metal ground plane that is separate from the circuit board of the circuitry associated with the combining network (211, 311, 411).

[0032] like Figures 1 to 3 (include Figure 1 and Figure 3 ), the beamforming layer 702 is stacked above (and vertically separated from) the array assembly 703 (of the antenna elements 112) along the central vertical axis 23. Figure 3In the embodiment, each conductive beam-forming antenna element 16 has a second outer edge 37, which refers to a second outline, area or footprint of the conductive beam-forming antenna element 16, wherein each antenna element 16 is separated from adjacent antenna elements 16 by an intermediate dielectric region 39 or an isolation dielectric region of the substrate 19.

[0033] In one embodiment, the outermost radial extent (of the second outer edge 37) of one or more conductive beamforming elements 16 (of the beamforming layer 702) is substantially aligned (e.g., radially aligned by an imaginary or virtual vertical projection line, curved surface, or plane) with the first outer edge 33 (e.g., a separate first outer edge or a common first outer edge) of the array of metallic antenna elements 112 (of the array assembly 703), wherein the first outer edge 33 and the second outer edge 37 extend radially outward from the central vertical axis 23 (e.g., extend from the central vertical axis 23 to substantially the same radial extent). For example, radial alignment (e.g., edge alignment) of the first outer edge 33 (of the array assembly 703) and the second outer edge 37 (of the beamforming layer 702) means one or more of the following: (a) radial alignment relative to the central vertical axis 23, or (b) radial alignment and axial (e.g., vertical) separation relative to the array assembly 703 (or its array of metallic antenna elements 112) and the conductive beamforming layer 702 (or its beamforming elements 16).

[0034] In one configuration, such as Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 7 , the array assembly 703 of the antenna element 112 includes a plurality of first metal plated through holes ( 13 , 15 ) in the first dielectric layer 14 . Figure 3, a beamforming layer 702 (e.g., a beamforming assembly) has a conductive beamforming antenna element 16 that includes a plurality of second metal-plated through holes 18 aligned (e.g., vertically aligned) with a subset (e.g., a plurality of first metal-plated through holes) of the first metal-plated through holes (13, 15). In addition, conductive posts (e.g., 24, 26, such as conductive sleeves) are configured to form mechanical and electrical connections between the first metal-plated through holes (13, 15) in the array assembly 703 and corresponding aligned second metal-plated through holes 18 in the beamforming layer 702. In some configurations, the first metal-plated through holes and the second metal-plated through holes (13, 15, 18) may include inner holes positioned radially adjacent to the central vertical axis 23. An electrical connection may be formed between the array of metallic antenna elements 112 and the beamforming antenna element 16 via conductive posts (24, 26) such as metallic sleeves (e.g., to receive a signal from an actively coupled beamforming element 16 that is actively coupled to the metallic element array 112). Thus, the metallic antenna elements 112 of the array assembly 703 are directly or actively coupled to the beamforming antenna element 16, rather than being only parasitically coupled (e.g., coupled to a parasitic reflector) to facilitate reliable reception or transmission of circularly polarized signals (e.g., even in the presence of possible manufacturing tolerance variations in the spacing between the metallic elements 112 and the beamforming element 16). In other words, in some embodiments, active coupling between the metallic elements 112 and the beamforming element 16 may be reliably performed (e.g., receiving or transmitting) while reducing dependence on tolerances of the (physical, vertical) separation at a target fractional wavelength multiple (for the antenna's operating frequency range) between the array of metallic antenna elements 112 and the beamforming antenna element 16.

[0035] In one example, the conductive posts (24, 26) include any of the following: a cylindrical conductive member, a hollow (substantially) cylindrical member, a metal sleeve, a metal standoff, a metal-plated stud, a metal stud, a hollow (substantially) polygonal member that can receive a fastener, a dielectric or metal core plated (e.g., sputtered or electroless deposition plated) with a suitable metal or a suitable alloy. The fastener can be implemented as a bolt, or a combination of a bolt and a nut, or a combination of a dielectric bolt and a dielectric retainer (nylon nut). In an alternative embodiment, each conductive post (24, 26) has a first radius (or first diameter) and terminates (e.g., at opposite ends) with one or more threaded studs having a second radius (or second diameter), wherein the first radius is greater than the second radius.

[0036] The array of antenna elements 112 includes first metal plated through holes (13, 15), which can be classified as inner metal plated through holes 13 and outer metal plated through holes 15. In addition, the conductive posts (24, 26) are configured to form mechanical and electrical connections between a first portion of the array of antenna elements 112 (e.g., first metal plated through holes 13, 15) and metal plated through holes in a corresponding second portion of the ground plane assembly 704 and its circuit board. In some configurations, the conductive posts (24, 26) include conductive and substantially cylindrical members, as previously described in this document.

[0037] In one embodiment, Figure 2 In the array assembly 703, each of the metal antenna elements 112 includes an outer semi-elliptical region 12 opposite to the central tapered region 312 (e.g., a trapezoidal region). In addition, one or more intermediate notches 117 (e.g., substantially rectangular notches 117 or substantially rectangular slots) are configured between the outer semi-elliptical region 12 and the central tapered region 312. As shown, the notches 117 are on opposite sides of each metal antenna element 112.

[0038] Meanwhile, in the beamforming layer 702, the conductive beamforming elements 16 include a set of generally elliptical members (e.g., notched disks) with radial notches 17 (or slots) facing outward, wherein the conductive beamforming elements 16 are substantially coplanar within the beamforming layer 702. At each second metal plated through hole 18, each beamforming member 16 is fed from the corresponding antenna element 112 via a second conductive post 26. In some configurations, the outer holes 318 in the dielectric substrate 19 (e.g., dielectric layer) can be used for (dielectric) spacers (e.g., vertical spacers), bases, or supports to maintain precise spacing between stacked layers or components of the antenna system 111.

[0039] In one embodiment, the antenna system 111 is enclosed or contained in an enclosure or housing formed by mechanically connecting the lower housing member 705 to the upper housing member 701. In one embodiment, the lower housing member 705 has a base or central region 22, wherein a metal or metallic curved wall 81 extends vertically upward from the periphery of the central region 22, and wherein fins 82 extend radially outward from the wall 81. In addition, the ground plane assembly 704 is connected to the central region of the lower housing member 705 (e.g., via a third dielectric spacer 708 and / or a plurality of foam spacers between the central portion of the ground plane assembly 704 and the interior of the lower housing member 705). In some embodiments, the curved metal wall 81 can create boundary conditions or support waveguides consistent with the antenna system 111 receiving (or transmitting) circularly polarized signals.

[0040] In some embodiments, the metal curved wall 81 has fins 82 such that the metal antenna elements 112 (of the array) are surrounded by the fin-like structure, wherein the fin-like structure tends to or is capable of: (a) increasing the front-to-back gain ratio of the antenna 111 (i.e., reducing the gain of one or more rear lobes relative to one or more front lobes), and (b) reducing the effects (e.g., electromagnetic coupling) of structures such as metal or conductive structures that may be below the antenna 111 or spaced from the bottom of the antenna system 111. The upper housing member 701 is connected to the lower housing member 705 via one or more fasteners 83, wherein the upper housing member 701 includes a dielectric cover (e.g., a radome) configured to surround the beamforming layer 702, the conductive ground plane assembly 704, and the array assembly 703.

[0041] Although the lower housing member 705 can be formed from cast aluminum, extruded aluminum, or an aluminum alloy, in alternative embodiments, the lower housing member 705 can have a dielectric core (e.g., a plateable plastic, a plateable polymer, or a metallized ceramic member) plated with a metal or metal alloy (e.g., via electroplating, electroless deposition, metal sputtering).

[0042] As described above, antenna system 111 can receive or transmit substantially circularly polarized signals. In practice, generally circularly polarized electromagnetic signals include right-handed (circularly) polarized (RHCP) electromagnetic signal components and left-handed (circularly) polarized (LHCP) electromagnetic signal components.

[0043] exist Figure 4C In the embodiment of the present invention, the combining network 411 is configured to isolate or separate a right-hand circularly polarized electromagnetic signal (RHCP) component from a left-hand circularly polarized (LHCP) electromagnetic signal component, or to provide an output of a circularly polarized electromagnetic signal. In some embodiments, in the array assembly 703, the shape of the metal antenna element 112 is symmetrical about the central vertical axis 23 in the XY plane, so that the antenna system 111 can receive right-hand circularly polarized signals, left-hand circularly polarized signals, and dual-polarized circularly polarized signals. If the antenna system 111 is optimized for reception of circularly polarized electromagnetic signals, elliptically polarized signals or linearly polarized signals can be received by the antenna system 111 with some attenuation.

[0044] One feature of the antenna system 111 includes a conductive ground plane component 704 (e.g., a substantially elliptical or circular ground plane component 704) with a group (e.g., four) of metallic antenna elements 112 (e.g., substantially planar antenna radiating elements) in an array component 703 above the conductive ground plane component 704. The metallic antenna elements 112 (e.g., substantially planar radiating elements) are electrically coupled (e.g., connected) to circuitry on the ground plane component 704 (e.g., second side 752) via the first conductive posts 24 (e.g., electrically coupled via the matching network 75). Thus, the first conductive pillar 24 can be electrically isolated from the surface of the conductive ground plane (on the circuit board), and such a first conductive pillar 24 can be interfaced with conductive traces on one or more sides (751, 752) of the circuit board alone or in combination with blind conductive vias, conductive vias or conductive through-holes in the dielectric substrate of the ground plane assembly to form an electrical connection to a combined network (211, 311, 411) or its (electrical or electronic) component 759, which can be incorporated on or around the second side 752 of the circuit board of the ground plane assembly 704.

[0045] In the combining network (211, 311, 411), the circuit combines (e.g., orthogonally) the four signals from the antenna element 112 to obtain a circularly polarized reception mode that supports separate and cumulative reception of circularly polarized signals, left-hand polarized signals, or right-hand polarized signals. In addition, the conductive posts 26 extend upward from the antenna element 112 (of the array assembly 703) to electrically connect to a group (e.g., four) of substantially planar beamforming elements 16 (e.g., of the beamforming layer 702). Each of the antenna elements 112 (e.g., radiating elements) has two cylindrical members 26 near the outer edge, which are connected to the ground plane assembly 704 or to circuit traces on the dielectric substrate of the ground plane assembly 704, where the circuit traces can be coupled to the combining network (211, 311, 411) or the impedance matching network 75.

[0046] Figure 1 An exploded view of the antenna system 111 is shown. On the lower housing member 705 is a metal fin structure 705, which also has a (recessed or internal) center region 22 that serves as a housing for the circuitry of the combined network (211, 311, 411) located on a second side 752 (e.g., underside) of a ground plane assembly 704 (e.g., a substantially elliptical ground plane assembly 704). In the array assembly 703, the conductive regions (12, 312) of the antenna elements 112 are shown.

[0047] A dielectric spacer 706 or dielectric frame is located between the array assembly 703 (e.g., a radiating layer) and the beamforming layer 702. The dielectric spacer 706 can have a (substantially) cylindrical recess 758 to hold the conductive pillar 26 (e.g., a conductive hollow member). In one embodiment, to improve the axial ratio, the beamforming layer 702 is configured to adjust the ratio of the electric (E) field in the φ ((azimuth) radial coordinate, φ) and θ ((elevation) angular coordinate, θ) directions according to polar coordinates (e.g., θ, φ) or according to spherical coordinates (r (vector r), θ, φ). In some configurations, φ (radial coordinate, φ) and θ (angular coordinate, θ) can be located in or on a common plane, and r determines the magnitude and direction of the vector in the common plane. In addition, reference can be made to Figure 1 The above-mentioned polar coordinates or spherical coordinates are defined by the vertical axis 23 in, which vertical axis can represent the Z axis (in Cartesian coordinates) defining the angle θ (e.g., elevation) between the Z axis and r; wherein the X axis is substantially orthogonal to the vertical axis 23 (Z axis), and the angle φ (e.g., azimuth) is between the X axis and the common plane.

[0048] In the array assembly 703, the antenna elements 112 (e.g., radiating elements with symmetrical opposite side notches 117) are implemented as metal traces, metal foils, metal pads, or metal islands on a dielectric substrate 14 (e.g., a circuit board or a thin printed circuit board). For example, conventional FR-4 epoxy glass material can be used for the dielectric substrate 14, but ceramics, polymers, plastics, composite materials, other dielectric substrates can be used. In some configurations, the holes in the antenna elements 112 and the dielectric substrate 14 are first metal plated through holes (13, 15) so that the conductive members or posts (24, 26) above and below the array assembly 703 will be mechanically and electrically connected to the corresponding antenna elements in the antenna elements 112.

[0049] The beamforming layer 702 is above the array component 703 (e.g., the radiating layer). The array component 703 is spaced apart from the ground plane component 704 by a first dielectric spacer 707 (alone or together with the pillar 24). In addition, the first dielectric spacer 707 can have a cylindrical recess to hold or retain the first conductive pillar 24 (e.g., a hollow cylindrical conductive member). The array component 703 is spaced apart from the beamforming layer 702 by a dielectric spacer 706, and the dielectric spacer 706 can have a (substantially) cylindrical recess 754 to hold or retain the conductive pillar 26 (e.g., a hollow cylindrical conductive member).

[0050] In one embodiment, the beamforming layer (component) 702 is implemented as metal traces, metal foils, metal pads, or metal islands to form conductive beamforming elements 16 on a dielectric substrate 19 (e.g., a circuit board or a thin printed circuit board). Conventional FR-4 epoxy glass materials can be used, but ceramic, plastic, polymer, or composite dielectric substrates can be used. The conductive beamforming elements 16 can be coupled to the array component 703 or one or more (radiating) antenna elements 112 via conductive vias 18 in the dielectric substrate 19 and the conductive beamforming elements 16.

[0051] Above the beamforming layer 702 is an upper housing member 701 that includes a radome, cover, or lid for the antenna system 111 to protect the beamforming layer 702, array assembly 703, ground plane assembly 704, and combined network (e.g., 211, 311, 411, circuitry of the ground plane assembly) from dust, debris, salt or moisture, insects, or rodents that could damage, corrode, or oxidize the conductive layers or otherwise shorten the life of the antenna.

[0052] Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C Different illustrative examples of combining networks (211, 311, 411) for combining received signals from or transmitted signals to antenna elements 112 are provided. Signals from four antenna elements of antenna array 703 are provided to combining networks (211, 311, 411) via or through one or more of the following electrical paths: (a) via first metal plated through holes (13, 15) in antenna elements 112 and dielectric substrate 14, (b) via one or more conductive posts 26, (c) via metal plated through holes, conductive blind vias, or conductive vias in ground plane component 704 or its circuit board, wherein the metal plated through holes, conductive blind vias, or conductive vias are electrically isolated from a ground plane on the circuit board (e.g., by a dielectric barrier region or air gap), and (d) a transmission line, microstrip, stripline, coaxial cable, or other signal feed on one or both sides of the circuit board of ground plane component 704. Furthermore, if antenna system 111 is used to receive satellite signals or other electromagnetic signals, the electromagnetic signals directed to antenna elements 112 must be electrically combined to produce a single combined signal to be received (e.g., decoded, demodulated, or processed) by a satellite receiver. Because the received signal polarization is generally circular, in some embodiments, the signal may be received by a satellite receiver. Figure 4A and Figure 4B Likewise, the four signals are combined in four phases, each phase being 90 degrees from the adjacent feed; thus, Figure 4A and Figure 4B The above combining system configuration is called a quadrature combiner.

[0053] Because the (antenna) impedance of the antenna elements (e.g., the impedance of the antenna element 112, the beamforming element 16 and its transmission line or feed) is generally not (e.g., inherently or naturally) at a target impedance that is compatible with the input impedance of one or more combiners (e.g., the first combiner 409, 410), each feed requires an impedance matching circuit 75 to better match the antenna impedance to the target impedance. In one embodiment, the target impedance is approximately 50 ohms over the entire GNSS frequency range (e.g., frequencies around 1550 MHz, L1 signals, L2 signals, or L5 GPS signals), satellite reception bandwidth, or satellite channels.

[0054] In alternative embodiments, the target impedance is approximately 75 ohms over the entire GNSS frequency range (e.g., frequencies around 1550 MHz, L1 signals, L2 signals, or L5 GPS signals), satellite reception bandwidth, or satellite channels; target impedances other than approximately 50 ohms or approximately 75 ohms may also fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0055] The impedance matching network 75 comprises an impedance matching module, wherein the impedance matching network 75 may include a lumped element circuit of a network of capacitors and inductors, or a filter having desired input and output impedances and a target amplitude versus frequency response.

[0056] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C (include Figure 4A and Figure 4C ) discloses three possible combiner circuit configurations or morphologies. Antenna system 111 (e.g., in Figures 1 to 3 (disclosed in FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C (include Figure 4A and Figure 4C ) are compatible with any configuration of combinational circuits.

[0057] Figure 4A 2 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of a combining system 211, which includes a combining circuit or a combining network. The first embodiment of the combining system 211 has a matching network 75 electrically coupled to each antenna element 112 of the array assembly 703. In the embodiment of the combining system 211, which can be applied to any of the combining systems (211, 311, 411), Figure 3In one possible interpretation of , the first antenna element 112 is located at approximately twelve o'clock; the second antenna element 112 is located at approximately three o'clock; the third antenna element 112 is located at approximately six o'clock; and the fourth antenna element 112 is located at approximately nine o'clock, but according to other variations or arrangements, the antenna elements may be labeled in association with a prefix modifier (e.g., first, second, third, and fourth antenna element) of each antenna element 112. As shown, the first antenna element 112 (e.g., along with its signal transmission path to the combining network 211 or the matching network 75) is configured to be substantially or approximately in phase with the third antenna element 112 (e.g., along with its signal transmission path to the combining network 211 or the matching network 75) over the frequency range of interest, while the second antenna element 112 (e.g., along with its signal transmission path to the combining network 211 or the matching network 75) is configured to be substantially or approximately in phase with the fourth antenna element 112 (e.g., along with its signal transmission path to the combining network 211 or the matching network 75) over the frequency range of interest. At the same time, within the frequency range of interest, the first antenna element 112 and the second antenna element 112 are out of phase (e.g., approximately 90 degrees out of phase with respect to each other), and the third antenna element 112 and the fourth antenna element 112 are out of phase (e.g., approximately 90 degrees out of phase) with respect to each other. For example, the signal transmission path between the antenna element 112 and the combined system 211 (or the matching network 75) can include the first conductive column 24 and the first metal plated through hole (13, 15) of the antenna component 703 and the through hole of the ground plane component 704.

[0058] exist Figure 4A , the first antenna element 112 and the second antenna element 112 are coupled to the input ports (423, 424) of the first combiner 409, and the third antenna element 112 and the fourth antenna element 112 are coupled to the input ports (423, 424) of the second combiner 410. Here, a combiner (such as the first combiner 409 and the second combiner 410) can be constructed as a 90 degree hybrid combiner having two input ports (423, 424) configured for or tuned to corresponding frequency bands. The hybrid combiner (409, 410) can form the sum of the two input signals at the output port 425 of the combiner (409, 410). The additional output port 426 has a terminating load resistor to balance the impedance of the hybrid combiner (409, 410); wherein in some embodiments, the additional output port 426 provides an isolation port or a difference between the two input signals.

[0059] exist Figure 4A, a first embodiment of the combining system 211 includes a combining circuit or a combining network that uses a first combiner 409 and a second combiner 410, followed by a third combiner 412. For example, the first combiner 409 includes a 90-degree hybrid combiner; the second combiner 410 includes a 90-degree hybrid combiner; and the third combiner 412 includes a 180-degree hybrid combiner (e.g., a 180-degree rat-race combiner).

[0060] Any combiner (409, 410, 412, 417) can be implemented using microstrip transmission lines (e.g., referred to as rat race combiners or competitive combiners), stripline transmission lines, and / or as discrete components (e.g., surface mount components). Each combiner (409, 410, 412, 417) (such as a 90 degree hybrid combiner or a 180 degree hybrid combiner) can be used as a discrete component mounted on a circuit board or a surface mountable component. For example, the hybrid combiner can be mounted on a circuit board of a ground plane assembly, or manufactured as a microstrip or stripline on a circuit board of the ground plane assembly 704.

[0061] For combiners, microstrip implementations have lower insertion loss than surface mount component hybrids. However, microstrip implementations of combiners fabricated directly on a circuit board can use considerable circuit board real estate. In contrast, hybrid combiners can be configured as commercially available, individual, compact discrete components with well-known package sizes for a given frequency range.

[0062] At an operating frequency or frequency band of interest, the hybrid combiner (e.g., 409, 410, 412, 417) can be configured to provide a quarter-wavelength delay line between any two adjacent ports of the hybrid combiner (e.g., 409, 410). In some configurations, the hybrid combiner can operate bidirectionally to transmit or receive signals. In other configurations, the combiner (e.g., hybrid combiner) can include a ferrite device having an output isolator port that supports only unidirectional signals or combines signals in one direction.

[0063] exist Figure 4A , after the passive combining circuits of the first combiner 409 and the second combiner 410 (in the first stage of combining the received signal) and the third combiner 412 (in the second stage of combining the received signal), an amplifier 414 (e.g., a low noise amplifier (LNA)) is coupled to the output of the third combiner 412. The amplifier 414 can establish a target system noise figure and an associated gain to boost the received signal to a level suitable for a receiver (e.g., a GNSS receiver) or an antenna port of the receiver.

[0064] Figure 4B is a block diagram of a second embodiment of a combinatorial circuit 311 including a combinatorial circuit or a combinatorial network. Figure 4B The combined system is similar to Figure 4A The combined system, except Figure 4B The combining system also includes a first amplifier 415 and a second amplifier 415 coupled between the first stage and the second stage of the combiner (409, 410, 412). Figure 4A and Figure 4B The same reference numerals in the drawings represent the same features or elements.

[0065] exist Figure 4B In FIG. 4 , the combining system 311 has a first amplifier 415 coupled to an output port 425 of a first combiner 409 ; and a second amplifier 415 coupled to an output port 425 of a second combiner 410 . Figure 4B The combining system 311 provides a design choice of the third combiner 412 (e.g., a 180 degree combiner). Figure 4A Greater flexibility for the combining system 211 of FIG. 4. Because the gain(s) of the first amplifier 415 and the second amplifier 415 are applied prior to the third combiner 412, the noise figure contribution of the third combiner 412 (e.g., to the noise figure contribution of the received signal) is reduced; thus, sensitivity to the received signal can be improved in the case where the signal propagates in the field. In addition, the insertion loss of the third combiner 412 does not substantially affect the performance of the combining system 311; thus, a third combiner 412 can be selected that has greater insertion loss than would be possible without the first amplifier 415 and the second amplifier 415. Furthermore, the isolation inherent in the first amplifier 415 and the second amplifier 415 is advantageously configured to isolate the two combiner inputs of the third combiner 412, thereby reducing the isolation requirements for the third combiner 412 itself. Here, output port 422 can provide a right-hand circularly polarized (RHCP) signal or a circularly polarized signal, for example, but the antenna (of antenna system 111) alone or in conjunction with combining system 311 can be configured to receive or output left-hand circularly polarized (LHCP), RHCP, or both, or other polarized signals (e.g., elliptically polarized signals).

[0066] Figure 4C is a block diagram of a third embodiment of a combining system 411 including a combining circuit or a combining network configured to provide two receive signal outputs from an antenna system 111: a first receive signal output port for a substantially right-hand circularly polarized (RHCP) signal component and a second receive signal output port for a substantially left-hand circularly polarized (LHCP) signal component.

[0067] The third embodiment of the combined system 411 has a matching network 75 electrically coupled to each antenna element 112 of the array assembly 703. Figure 4C As shown, the first antenna element 112 is configured to be substantially or approximately in phase (e.g., at the frequency range of interest) with the second antenna element 112, and the third antenna element 112 is configured to be substantially or approximately in phase (e.g., at the frequency range of interest) with the fourth antenna element 112. At the same time, the first antenna element 112 and the third antenna element 112 are out of phase (e.g., approximately 180 degrees out of phase with respect to each other at the frequency range of interest), and the second antenna element 112 and the fourth antenna element 112 are out of phase with respect to each other (e.g., approximately 180 degrees out of phase with respect to the frequency range of interest).

[0068] exist Figure 4C , the first antenna element 112 and the third antenna element 112 are coupled to the input port of the first combiner 409, and the second antenna element 112 and the fourth antenna element 112 are coupled to the input port of the second combiner 410. At the input terminals of the first and second combiners (409, 410), representative input phases of the corresponding input signals are shown (e.g., approximately in phase, such as approximately zero degrees; approximately out of phase, or approximately 180 degrees). For example, the (signal) feed path or signal transmission path between the antenna element 112 and the combining system 211 (or matching network 75) can include the first conductive column 24 and the metal plated through-hole of the antenna component 703 and the through-hole of the ground plane component 704.

[0069] Here, in Figure 4C In the embodiment of the present invention, a combiner (such as first combiner 409, second combiner 410) can be configured as a 180 degree hybrid ring combiner (e.g., a competitive combiner) having two input ports configured or tuned to a corresponding frequency range of interest (e.g., a frequency band). The combiner (e.g., a hybrid combiner) can form the sum of the two input signals at the output port. An optional additional output port (not shown) has a terminating load resistor to balance the impedance of the hybrid combiner; wherein the optional additional output port provides the difference between the two input signals.

[0070] The combiners (409, 410, 417) may be implemented using microstrip transmission lines (e.g., referred to as competitive combiners), stripline transmission lines, and / or as discrete components (e.g., surface mount components). Figure 4C In the embodiment of the present invention, each combiner, such as a 90 degree hybrid combiner (e.g., 417) or a (180 degree) hybrid combiner (e.g., 409, 410), can be used as a discrete component or a surface mountable component for mounting on a circuit board. For example, the hybrid combiner can be mounted on a circuit board of a ground plane assembly, or manufactured as a microstrip or stripline on a circuit board of a ground plane assembly 704.

[0071] For any combiner (e.g., 409, 410, 417), microstrip implementations tend to have lower insertion loss than surface mount component hybrids. However, microstrip implementations of the combiner fabricated directly on a circuit board can use considerable circuit board area. In contrast, the hybrid combiner can be configured as a commercially available, individual, compact discrete component with a well-known package size for a given frequency range.

[0072] like Figure 4C As shown, the first stage (409, 410) of the combining system 411 has a first combiner 409 and a second combiner 410. Each of the first combiner 409 and the second combiner 410 comprises a 180 degree combiner (e.g., a competitive combiner). The output of the first combiner 409 is coupled to a first amplifier 415, and the output of the second combiner 410 is coupled to a second amplifier 415. In some configurations, each of the first amplifier 415 and the second amplifier 415 comprises a low noise amplifier (LNA).

[0073] The output of the first amplifier 415 is coupled to a first signal separator 416 (e.g., an in-phase separator). At the same time, the output of the second amplifier 415 is coupled to a second signal separator 416 (e.g., an in-phase separator). The first amplifier 415 drives a bidirectional in-phase power separator, and the second amplifier 415 drives a bidirectional in-phase power separator. For example, each separator 416 can be configured as a Wilkenson separator. In the separator 416, the first signal (propagation) delay between the input port 428 (of the separator 416) and the first output port 419 (of the separator 416) is substantially equal to the second signal (propagation) delay between the input port 428 and the second output port 427.

[0074] From each splitter 416, a first output terminal is coupled to an input of a first hybrid combiner 417 (e.g., a 90 degree hybrid combiner), and a second output terminal is coupled to an input of a second hybrid combiner 417. In the second stage of combining, the first hybrid combiner 417 is configured to provide a first receive signal output port 420 for a substantially right-hand circularly polarized (RHCP) signal component, and the second hybrid combiner 417 is configured to provide a second receive signal output port 421 for a substantially left-hand circularly polarized (LHCP) signal component. In some applications, it may be desirable to receive both left-hand circularly polarized (LHCP) and right-hand circularly polarized (RHCP) using the same antenna. Due to its symmetry, the antenna system 111 receives both polarizations equally well. It is determined by the combining circuit to favor one polarization direction and exclude the other polarization direction. With a small number of additional circuit elements, it is possible to have two outputs of the combining circuit, one for each polarization.

[0075] In one embodiment, the antenna element 112 is not exactly 50 ohm impedance in the frequency range of interest or the operating frequency range. Therefore, inserting an impedance matching network 75 between each antenna feed (e.g., transmission line) and the corresponding combined system (211, 311, 411) can improve the overall antenna performance of the antenna system 111. Such an impedance matching network 75 is typically made of discrete inductors and capacitors arranged as series and shunt elements. For the impedance matching network 75, in Figure 4D A possible circuit comprising two capacitors and two resistors is shown in .

[0076] like Figure 4D As shown, the impedance matching network 75 includes two capacitors (514, 519) and two inductors (516, 518), but other topologies or configurations are possible. In one embodiment, if the inductor L1 (516) and the capacitor C1 (514) are configured with capacitance and inductance values ​​as a tuned circuit, the tuned circuit can provide a passband over a resonant frequency band (e.g., for an operating frequency range of interest within the half-power bandwidth in the amplitude-to-frequency response of the filter). At the same time, the capacitor C2 (e.g., C2) can act as a low-pass filter. The inductor L2 (518) has an input reactance, and the capacitor C2 (519) has an output reactance consistent with the different impedances at the input 512 (e.g., leading to the antenna element) and the output 513 (e.g., leading to the combining network).

[0077] In an ideal situation, each antenna feed (e.g., transmission line) would have a resistive impedance of 50 ohms and no reactive impedance for the entire operating frequency range. In addition, the four antenna feeds in the antenna system 111 (e.g., transmission lines leading to the antenna elements 112) are susceptible to coupling between or among two or more antenna feeds, which affects the antenna impedance when the two or more feeds are driven orthogonally. In practice, the inter-feed coupling can be estimated or measured as a reactive error component to be compensated. Therefore, the reactive error component defines the impedance matching network 75 or informs the selection of the value of one or more capacitors (514, 519) and inductors (516, 518) in the impedance matching network 75, correcting the simple isolated feed impedance to produce a so-called passive impedance. When the other three antenna elements 112 are driven orthogonally, an active impedance is obtained, thereby affecting the impedance of the element under consideration. In practice, due to the symmetry of this antenna, all four elements will have the same impedance. The goal of the matching network is to match the active impedance to 50 ohms while compensating for the reactive error component.

[0078] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A radiation pattern graph of isotropic gain versus elevation angle (e.g., elevation angle in a vertical plane) for an illustrative embodiment of an antenna system of FIG. 1 . The azimuth angle may represent the angular difference between a horizontal reference direction (e.g., sometimes north) and a horizontal angle of interest in the horizontal reference plane (e.g., the horizontal angle of the antenna projection from a reference measurement in space). In the vertical reference plane, the elevation angle represents the (altitude) angle relative to the horizontal reference plane.

[0079] For GNSS applications, the antenna system 111 may be configured to have a substantially omnidirectional radiation pattern or reception pattern in the horizontal plane or with respect to azimuth. However, in alternative embodiments or for fixed reference stations of a GNSS network, the radiation pattern of the antenna may produce a substantially cardioid radiation pattern in the vertical reference plane, the horizontal reference plane, or both the vertical reference plane and the horizontal reference plane.

[0080] In practice, for typical GNSS applications, antenna system 111 is configured to favor or prefer reception of right-hand circularly polarized (RHCP) signals over left-hand circularly polarized (LHCP) signals, which results in a significant gain difference between RHCP and LHCP signals.

[0081] exist Figure 5 middle, Figure 5 The radiation gain pattern can be derived from signal strength measurements in an anechoic chamber (e.g., using a two-axis positioner to control the measurement angles (e.g., azimuth and elevation) of a reference (measurement) antenna relative to the observation antenna system 111). The above RHCP and LHCP gain versus elevation patterns are obtained at a single azimuth and two frequencies associated with GNSS (1227 MHz and 1575 MHz).

[0082] exist Figure 5, a first graph 504 shows a right-hand circular polarization (RHCP) gain 501 versus an elevation angle 502 (in a vertical reference plane) at a first frequency range (e.g., 1575 MHz) and at a reference azimuth (e.g., a fixed representative sample azimuth), wherein the first graph 504 is shown as a long dashed curve. A second graph 506 shows a left-hand circular polarization (LHCP) gain 501 versus an elevation angle 502 (in a vertical reference plane) at a first frequency range (e.g., 1575 MHz) and at a reference azimuth (e.g., a fixed representative sample azimuth), wherein the second graph 506 is shown as a solid curve. A third graph 503 shows a right-hand circular polarization (RHCP) gain 501 versus an elevation angle 502 (in a vertical reference plane) at a second frequency range (e.g., 1227 MHz) and at a reference azimuth (e.g., a fixed representative sample azimuth), wherein the third graph 503 is shown as alternating long dashed lines and dots. A fourth graph 505 shows a left-hand circular polarization (LHCP) gain 501 versus an elevation angle 502 (in a vertical reference plane) at a second frequency range (e.g., 1227 MHz) and at a reference azimuth (e.g., a fixed representative sample azimuth), wherein the fourth graph 505 is shown as a short dashed line.

[0083] Figure 6 Shown for Figure 1 , a graph of axial ratio (AR) 507 versus elevation angle 502 at representative azimuths (e.g., fixed representative sample azimuths) in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of an antenna system of FIG. AR plots or graphs (508, 509) are shown at different frequencies (e.g., 1575 MHz and 1275 MHz) for right-hand circularly polarized signals. Figure 6 The diagram can be constructed from Figure 5 The same data of the gain radiation pattern is derived.

[0084] Axial ratio (AR) can be defined as the ratio of the major axis to the minor axis of the polarization ellipse. The length or magnitude of the major or minor axis can represent the field strength of an electric field vector (e.g., an elliptical or circular electric field) that varies (e.g., rotates) over time. A perfect AR for a circularly polarized signal has a value of 1 or 0 dB. A very high AR value means that the antenna is better at receiving or transmitting linear polarization than at receiving or transmitting circular polarization.

[0085] AR can be used as a measure of the effectiveness of an antenna in accepting its preferred polarization (e.g., in the current example, RHCP) and rejecting the opposite polarization (e.g., in the current example, LHCP). For example, AR can be defined according to the following equation:

[0086] , where Erh is the right-handed polarized electric field, Elh is the left-handed polarized electric field, and || is the absolute value.

[0087] For this antenna system, Figure 6 In the example of FIG. 7 , the AR at an elevation angle of 10 degrees above the horizon does not exceed the maximum design threshold (e.g., approximately 7 dB), indicating an adequate response to the RHCP. In one embodiment, to improve the axial ratio, the beamforming layer 702 adjusts the ratio of the electric (E) field in the φ (radial coordinate, φ) and θ (angular coordinate, θ) directions according to polar coordinates.

[0088] The present antenna system is well suited for use in conjunction with high precision GNSS receivers which benefit from an antenna having one or more of the following characteristics: (a) an appropriate axial ratio (AR) for RHCP and circularly polarized signals, (b) a compact size (particularly height) consistent with mounting on an off-road vehicle, (c) a high front-to-back (isotropic) gain ratio to reduce the potential effects of electromagnetic noise and electromagnetic interference from vehicle electronics, electric motors, inverters, and switchgear, and (d) in some embodiments, ease of manufacture using conventional circuit board manufacturing techniques.

[0089] Radiating antenna elements 112 (e.g., radiating dishes) are located below a beamforming layer (of the present disclosure) that includes a set (e.g., four) substantially coplanar dishes 16 (e.g., notched dishes) or substantially coplanar beamforming elements. The antenna elements 112 and the beamforming elements 16 together constitute a stacked antenna element assembly. The beamforming layer 702 or its substantially coplanar beamforming elements 16 are electrically (e.g., electromagnetically) connected to the array assembly 703 via one or more feeds (e.g., transmission lines or conductive posts 26) typically below the beamforming layer 702.

[0090] Depending on the common configuration of antenna system 111 and its combined systems (211, 311, 411), the antenna is well suited for receiving or transmitting signals having right-handed (circular) polarization, left-handed (circular) polarization, circular polarization, elliptical polarization, or having one or more polarizations (e.g., at least in part because the shape of antenna element 112 has symmetry about the antenna's X-axis and Y-axis, which are generally perpendicular to vertical axis 23 or Z-axis). In addition, in radiating layer 703, antenna element 112 is surrounded by a fin-like structure that potentially increases the front-to-back gain ratio and tends to reduce or improve the effects (e.g., electromagnetic coupling) of structures (e.g., metal or conductive structures) that may be below the antenna or spaced apart from the bottom of the antenna.

[0091] Although the present disclosure has been shown and described in detail in the drawings and the foregoing description, such illustration and description will be considered as exemplary rather than literal limiting, and it will be understood that illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, and it is desired to protect all changes and modifications that fall within the spirit of the present disclosure. It should be noted that alternative embodiments of the present disclosure may not include all of the features described, but still benefit from at least some of the advantages of these features. Those of ordinary skill in the art can easily design their own embodiments that incorporate one or more features of the present disclosure and fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An antenna system, comprising: an array of metallic antenna elements for radiating or receiving substantially circularly polarized electromagnetic signal components within a target wavelength range, each antenna element within the array being oriented to be substantially coplanar with respect to the other antenna elements, the array overlying a first dielectric substrate; a ground plane layer spaced apart from the array of antenna elements by a first dielectric spacer; a beamforming layer spaced apart from the array of antenna elements by a second dielectric spacer, the beamforming layer having a set of conductive beamforming antenna elements overlying a second dielectric substrate; as well as A combining network for combining electromagnetic signal components received from the array, wherein the combining network cooperates to produce or receive a radiation pattern that is substantially circularly polarized at the target wavelength range.

2. The antenna system according to claim 1, wherein: The ground plane includes a metal layer that extends radially outward relative to a central vertical axis to substantially the same extent as an outermost outer edge of the array extends radially outward from the central vertical axis.

3. The antenna system according to claim 1, wherein: The beamforming layer is stacked above the array along a central vertical axis.

4. The antenna system according to claim 3, wherein: A second outer edge of the conductive beamforming antenna element is aligned with a first outer edge of the array of metallic antenna elements, wherein the first outer edge and the second outer edge extend radially outward from a central vertical axis.

5. The antenna system according to claim 1, wherein: The array of antenna elements comprises a plurality of first metal plated through holes in the first dielectric layer, and wherein the set of conductive beam forming antenna elements comprises a plurality of second metal plated through holes aligned with the first metal plated through holes; and the antenna system further comprises: A plurality of conductive members are configured to form a mechanical and electrical connection between the first metal plated through hole and the second metal plated through hole, wherein the first metal plated through hole and the second metal plated through hole include inner holes positioned radially adjacent to the central vertical axis.

6. The antenna system according to claim 5, wherein: The conductive member includes a cylindrical conductive member.

7. The antenna system according to claim 1, wherein: The array of antenna elements includes a first metal plated through hole, and wherein the ground plane includes an outer hole aligned with the first metal plated through hole relative to the central vertical axis; and the antenna system further includes: A plurality of conductive members are configured to form mechanical and electrical connections between a first portion of the array of antenna elements and a corresponding second portion of a ground plane or circuit.

8. The antenna system according to claim 7, wherein: The conductive member includes a cylindrical conductive member.

9. The antenna system according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the metallic antenna elements includes an outer semi-elliptical region opposite a central conical region.

10. The antenna system according to claim 1, wherein: One or more intermediate notches are configured between the outer semi-elliptical region and the central tapered region.

11. The antenna system according to claim 1, wherein: The conductive beamforming element includes a set of generally elliptical members having outwardly facing radial notches, wherein the conductive beamforming members are substantially coplanar.

12. The antenna system according to claim 1, further comprising: A lower housing member has a base with a metal curved wall and fins extending radially outward from the wall, wherein the ground plane is connected to a central region of the lower housing member.

13. The antenna system of claim 12, wherein the metallic antenna element is surrounded by a fin-like structure.

14. The antenna system of claim 12, further comprising: An upper housing member is connected to the lower housing member via one or more fasteners, wherein the upper housing member includes a dielectric cover configured to surround the beamforming layer, the conductive ground plane, and the array.

15. The antenna system according to claim 1, wherein: The substantially circularly polarized electromagnetic signal includes a right-handedly polarized electromagnetic signal component and a left-handedly polarized electromagnetic signal component.

16. The antenna system according to claim 15, wherein: The combining network is configured to isolate or separate the right-handed polarized electromagnetic signal component from the left-handed polarized electromagnetic signal component.

17. The antenna system according to claim 15, wherein: The shape of the metal antenna element is symmetrical about a central vertical axis in the XY plane.

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