DIELECTRIC LENS AND ELECTROMAGNETIC DEVICE HAVING DIELECTRIC LENS - Patent application

Abstract

The dielectric lens includes a three-dimensional (3D) body of dielectric material having a spatially varying permittivity (Dk), the 3D body having three or more regions R(i) having local maxima of permittivity values ​​Dk(i) relative to surrounding regions of each of the three or more regions R(i), the positions of the three or more regions R(i) being defined by local coordinates of azimuth angle (i), zenith angle (i), and radial distance (i) relative to a particular common origin associated with the 3D body, where (i) is an index ranging from 1 to 3 or more, and the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body is configured to vary as a function of zenith angle between a first region R(1) and a second region R(2) at a given azimuth angle and at a given radial distance.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to dielectric lenses, particularly to dielectric lenses having three or more distinct focus or defocus sections, and more particularly to an EM device having a phased array antenna positioned and configured for electromagnetic (EM) communication with a dielectric lens having three or more distinct focus or defocus sections. [Background technology]

[0002] Phased array antennas serve to steer the EM wavefront in one or two directions along the direction of propagation of the EM radiation. In a typical planar phased array, the steering capability can be limited due to the decrease in the effective aperture as the steering angle increases. To improve the steering capability, existing systems employ more phased array antenna base station segments and / or Luneberg lenses. As can be recognized, an increase in the number of phased array antenna base station segments results in additional costs and hardware real estate, and the use of Luneberg lenses requires the use of non-planar arrays.

[0003] While existing EM phased array communication systems may be suitable for their intended purposes, the technology for such systems would be improved by dielectric lenses, or the combination of dielectric lenses and phased array antennas, which would overcome the shortcomings of existing technology. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One embodiment includes a dielectric lens, the dielectric lens having a three-dimensional (3D) body of a dielectric material having a spatially varying dielectric constant (Dk), the 3D body having three or more regions R(i) having local maxima of the dielectric constant value Dk(i) relative to surrounding regions of each of the three or more regions R(i), the positions of the three or more regions R(i) being defined by local coordinates of azimuth angle (i), zenith angle (i), and radial distance (i) relative to a particular common origin associated with the 3D body, where (i) is an index ranging from 1 to 3 or more, and the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body is configured to vary as a function of zenith angle between a first region R(1) and a second region R(2) at a given azimuth angle and at a given radial distance.

[0005] One embodiment includes a dielectric lens having a three-dimensional (3D) body of dielectric material having a spatially varying Dk, the spatially varying Dk varying from a particular common origin to an exterior surface of the 3D body along three or more different rays having different directions and the particular common origin, the particular common origin being surrounded by the 3D body, the three or more different rays defining locations of corresponding regions of three or more regions R(i) of the 3D body that have local maxima of dielectric constant values ​​Dk(i) relative to the dielectric material of immediately adjacent surrounding regions of the corresponding regions of the three or more regions R(i), where (i) is an index ranging from 1 to 3 or more, and wherein the dielectric material of the 3D body has a spatially varying Dk from each of the three or more regions R(i) to any other of the three or more regions R(i) along any path within the 3D body.

[0006] One embodiment includes an electromagnetic (EM) device having a phased array antenna and a dielectric lens according to any one of the preceding lenses, each dielectric lens configured and arranged to be in EM communication with the phased array antenna when electromagnetically excited.

[0007] The above and other features and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description of the invention when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Reference is made to the exemplary, non-limiting drawings in which like elements are similarly numbered in the accompanying figures. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a rotated isometric view of a 3D block diagram analytical model of a dielectric lens, depicting an example lens positioned above an example phased array antenna, according to one embodiment. [Figure 2A] 2 is a cross-sectional front view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 taken in the xz plane, according to one embodiment. [Figure 2B] 2 is a cross-sectional front view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 taken in the xz plane, according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] 2 is a top plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. [Figure 4A] FIG. 2 is a rotated isometric view of the half-symmetrical view of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. [Figure 4B] 4B illustrates cross-sectional slices L1-L4 of corresponding section cuts through the half-symmetrical view shown in FIG. 4A, according to one embodiment. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C is a close-up view of cross-sectional slices L3 and L4 of FIG. 4B, according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] 1 is a representation of a spherical coordinate system as applied herein, according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] 2 is a transparent top plan view of another exemplary dielectric lens similar to the dielectric lens of FIG. 1 but having a different shape and outer contour compared to the dielectric lens of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7A] FIG. 10 is a rotated isometric view of an example alternative 3D shape for any lens disclosed herein, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7B] FIG. 10 is a rotated isometric view of an example alternative 3D shape for any lens disclosed herein, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7C]FIG. 10 is a rotated isometric view of an example alternative 3D shape for any lens disclosed herein, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7D] FIG. 10 is a rotated isometric view of an example alternative 3D shape for any lens disclosed herein, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7E] FIG. 10 is a rotated isometric view of an example alternative 3D shape for any lens disclosed herein, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7F] FIG. 10 is a rotated isometric view of an example alternative 3D shape for any lens disclosed herein, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7G] FIG. 10 is a rotated isometric view of an example alternative 3D shape for any lens disclosed herein, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7H] FIG. 10 is a rotated isometric view of an example alternative 3D shape for any lens disclosed herein, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7I] FIG. 10 is a rotated isometric view of an example alternative 3D shape for any lens disclosed herein, according to one embodiment. [Figure 7J] FIG. 10 is a rotated isometric view of an example alternative 3D shape for any lens disclosed herein, according to one embodiment. [Figure 8A] 7A-7J are exemplary 2D xy-plane cross-sectional views of the 3D shapes of FIGS. 7A-7J, according to one embodiment. [Figure 8B] 7A-7J are exemplary 2D xy-plane cross-sectional views of the 3D shapes of FIGS. 7A-7J, according to one embodiment. [Figure 8C] 7A-7J are exemplary 2D xy-plane cross-sectional views of the 3D shapes of FIGS. 7A-7J, according to one embodiment. [Figure 8D] 7A-7J are exemplary 2D xy-plane cross-sectional views of the 3D shapes of FIGS. 7A-7J, according to one embodiment. [Figure 8E] 7A-7J are exemplary 2D xy-plane cross-sectional views of the 3D shapes of FIGS. 7A-7J, according to one embodiment. [Figure 9A] FIG. 10 is a rotated isometric view of an exemplary alternative surface for use in accordance with one embodiment. [Figure 9B]FIG. 10 is a rotated isometric view of an exemplary alternative surface for use in accordance with one embodiment. [Figure 9C] FIG. 10 is a rotated isometric view of an exemplary alternative surface for use in accordance with one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Although the following detailed description contains many details for purposes of illustration, anyone skilled in the art will recognize that many variations and modifications to the following details are within the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, the following exemplary embodiments are described without loss of generality to, and without imposing limitations on, the invention disclosed and claimed herein.

[0010] One embodiment, as illustrated and described in various figures and accompanying text, provides a three-dimensional (3D) dielectric lens having three or more distinct focusing or defocusing sections strategically positioned within the body of the lens, structurally and electromagnetically configured to cooperate with a phased array antenna to facilitate beam steering of an EM wavefront + / - 90 degrees relative to the direction of propagation of the EM radiation wavefront, thereby providing increased signal coverage without the need for increased base station segments. Each of the three or more distinct focusing / defocusing sections of the 3D dielectric lens is formed by a corresponding region having a local maximum value of the dielectric constant (Dk), with Dk values ​​being discussed in detail below. As used herein, the term dielectric lens refers to a 3D body of dielectric material that serves to modify the spatial distribution of radiated EM energy, and more specifically, as disclosed herein, refers to a 3D body of dielectric material that serves to modify the spatial distribution of radiated EM energy via three or more focusing / defocusing sections, as opposed to acting as a radiating antenna itself.

[0011] While the embodiments described or illustrated herein may depict a particular geometry or analytical model as an exemplary dielectric lens, it is recognized that the embodiments disclosed herein are applicable to other geometries or structures suitable for the purposes disclosed herein and fall within the scope of the appended claims. Therefore, it should be recognized that the illustrations provided herein are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as the only structures possible for the purposes disclosed herein. For example, several figures described below in this specification refer to an exemplary analytical block element 104 (see FIG. 4A ), which is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. This is because the appended claims are intended to encompass dielectric lens structures having a gradual, rather than a step-like, transition in dielectric constant from one region of the lens to another region of the lens. Any structure falling within the scope of the appended claims is contemplated and considered inherent, even if not explicitly disclosed herein.

[0012] Reference is now made to FIGS. 1-9C, where FIG. 1 shows a rotated isometric view of a 3D block diagram analytical model of a dielectric lens representing an example embodiment disclosed herein, FIGS. 2A and 2B show a front cross-sectional view (herein referred to as a half-symmetric view) of the embodiment of FIG. 1 cut through the xz plane, FIG. 3 shows a top plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, FIG. 4A shows a rotated isometric view of the half-symmetric view of FIG. 1 (3.5 block element 104 thickness) also seen in FIGS. 2A and 2B, showing an example Dk scale 102 of Dk values ​​and also showing an example analytical block element 104, and FIG. 4B shows corresponding successive section cuts through the half-symmetric view shown in FIG. FIG. 4C shows a close-up of cross-sectional slices L3 and L4 of FIG. 4B, FIG. 5 shows a representation of a spherical coordinate system as applied herein, FIG. 6 shows a transparent top plan view of another example dielectric lens similar to the dielectric lens of FIG. 1 but having a different shape and outer contour compared to the dielectric lens of FIG. 1, FIGS. 7A-7J show example alternative 3D shapes for any lens disclosed herein, FIGS. 8A-8E show example 2D xy-plane cross-sections of the 3D shapes of FIGS. 7A-7J, and FIGS. 9A-9C show representative alternative surfaces for use in accordance with an embodiment disclosed herein. With respect to the example analytical block elements 104 in the analytical model shown in the various figures, each block element 104 has the following dimensions: dx=4.92 mm (millimeters), dy=5.26 mm, and dz=5.04 mm. Alternatively, each block element 104 has dx, dy, and dz dimensions that are approximately 2λ / 3, where λ is the wavelength at an operating frequency of 39 GHz (gigahertz). However, such block element dimensions are for illustrative or analytical purposes only and are not limiting on the scope of the claimed invention according to the appended claims.With respect to cross-sectional slices L1-L4, a comparison of FIG. 4B with FIG. 4A indicates that slice L1 corresponds to the posterior external surface region 206 of the 3D body 200, half-slice L4 corresponds to the x-z plane section cut of FIG. 4A, and slices L2 and L3 correspond to the intermediate region between slice L1 and half-slice L4. With respect to the Dk scale 102 shown in FIG. 4A, the exemplary embodiment includes a Dk variation having a relative permittivity ranging from 1.2 (shown as light gray) to 3.6 (shown as dark gray or black). However, it is recognized that this Dk variation is for analytical purposes only and is non-limiting with respect to the scope of the claimed invention according to the appended claims.

[0013] As can be seen in some figures, both a Cartesian xyz coordinate system and a spherical coordinate system are shown, and both will be referenced herein below for a more complete understanding of the subject matter disclosed herein. With respect to Figure 2B, zenith angle increments + / - are shown in 15 degree increments.

[0014] The example dielectric lens 100 includes a three-dimensional (3D) body 200 of dielectric material having a spatially varying Dk, wherein the 3D body 200 has three or more regions R(i) 300 (a first region R(1), a second region R(2), and a third region R(3), individually listed by reference numerals 301, 302, and 303, respectively) having local maxima of permittivity (relative permittivity) values ​​Dk(i) relative to surrounding regions of each of the three or more regions R(i) 300, wherein the locations of the three or more regions R(i) 300 may be defined by local spherical coordinates of azimuth angle (i), zenith angle (i), and radial distance (i) relative to a particular common origin 202 associated with the 3D body 200, where (i) is an index ranging from 1 to 3 or more (an illustration of the local spherical coordinate system is best seen with reference to FIG. 5). The spatially varying Dk of the 3D body 200 is configured to vary as a function of the zenith angle Za between regions R(1) 301 and R(2) 302 at a given (constant) azimuth angle (e.g., the plane of FIG. 2A ) and a given (constant) radial distance ra, best seen with reference to FIG. 2A . For example, with reference to both FIG. 2A and FIG. 4A-4C , and with particular reference to the Dk scale 102 shown in FIG. 4A , it can be seen that the Dk values ​​within the 3D body 200 vary from a relatively high value, such as 3.6 at R(1) 301, to a relatively low value, such as 1.2 in the region intermediate between R(1) 301 and R(2) 302, to a relatively high value, such as 3.6 at R(2) 302, as the zenith angle Za varies from 0 degrees to 90 degrees. As used herein, and with reference to FIG. 5, the sign convention for + / - azimuth angles is clockwise (CW) from the positive Y axis toward the positive X axis (plus), and counterclockwise (CCW) from the positive Y axis toward the negative X axis (minus).

[0015] As used herein, the phrase "with respect to the surrounding region" means with respect to the D of the dielectric medium of the 3D body 200 in the immediate vicinity of the respective region of local maximum of D, where the D of the corresponding surrounding region is lower than the associated region of local maximum of D, hence the term "local" maximum. In one embodiment, the corresponding surrounding region in the immediate vicinity of the associated region of local maximum of D completely surrounds the associated region of local maximum of D.

[0016] As used herein, the phrase "particular common origin 202" means a point relative to the 3D body 200 of the dielectric lens 100 that may suitably serve as a reference origin of a spherical coordinate system, or a local x-y-z Cartesian coordinate system in which the local coordinates of azimuth angle (i), zenith angle (i), and radial distance (i) of three or more regions R(i) 300 may be determined (see, e.g., FIGS. 2A and 5), in which the common origin 202 is the origin of the local x-y-z coordinate system. While FIGS. 2A and 2B show the common origin 202 on the x-y plane substantially aligned with the bottom surface or base region 204 of the 3D body 200, it is recognized that such illustration is just one example scenario, and that other scenarios and structures within the scope of the appended claims may include a common origin located inside or outside the 3D body 200.

[0017] In one embodiment, and with particular reference to Figure 2A, the given radial distance ra may be viewed as a first given radial distance, and the 3D body 200 may be further described in terms of a second varying radial distance rb that varies as a function of the zenith angle Zb. For example, the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body 200 is further configured to vary as a function of the zenith angle Zb between the regions R(1) 301 and R(2) 302 at a given azimuth angle (e.g., the plane of Figure 2A), and at a second varying radial distance rb that varies as a function of the zenith angle Zb, best seen with reference to Figure 2A. As shown in Figure 2A, the varying radial distance rb increases as the zenith angle Zb increases from 0 degrees to 90 degrees. 2A and 4A-4C, and with particular reference to the Dk scale 102 shown in FIG. 4A, it can be seen that as the zenith angle Zb varies from 0 degrees to 90 degrees, the Dk value in one embodiment of the 3D body 200 varies from a relatively high value (such as 3.6 at R(1) 301), to a relatively low value (such as 1.2 in the region intermediate between R(1) 301 and R(4) 304), to a relatively high value (such as 2.4 at R(4) 304), to a relatively low value (such as 1.2 in the region intermediate between R(4) 304 and R(2) 302), to a relatively high value (such as 3.6 at R(2) 302).

[0018] The above description of the spatially varying Dk values ​​of the 3D body 200 has been described for zenith angles between 0 and 90 degrees, and for an azimuth angle of +90 degrees. However, as can be seen in FIGS. 2A and 2B , a similar, if not identical, structure of the spatially varying Dk values ​​of the 3D body 200 can be seen for zenith angles between 0 and 90 degrees, and for an azimuth angle of −90 degrees. That is, one embodiment of the 3D body 200 includes a configuration in which the spatially varying Dk values ​​of the 2D body 200 are symmetric with respect to the illustrated yz-plane, except that the xyz origin is centrally disposed with respect to the 3D body 200, as observed in a top-down plan view of the 3D body 200 (see, e.g., the transition of Dk values ​​from R(1) 301 to R(5) 305 to R(3) 303 as a function of zenith angles Za from 0 to 90 degrees, and as a function of zenith angles Zb from 0 to 90 degrees). Thus, in view of the foregoing, it is recognized that an embodiment of the dielectric lens 100 also includes a configuration in which the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body 200 is configured to vary as a function of the zenith angle Za between the region R(1) 301 and the region R(3) 303 at a given azimuth angle (e.g., the plane of FIG. 2A ) and a given (constant) radial distance ra. It is also recognized that an embodiment of the dielectric lens 100 also includes a configuration in which the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body 200 is configured such that the regions R(2) 302 and R(3) 303, which are at corresponding azimuth angles 180 degrees apart, have symmetric Dk relative to each other and / or to the region R(1) 301 with respect to the yz-plane.

[0019] As can be seen in FIGS. 3 and 4A-4C, and with reference to the Dk scale 102 in FIG. 4A, it is further recognized that an embodiment of the dielectric lens 100 includes a configuration further configured such that the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body 200 varies as a function of the azimuth angle (e.g., in the illustrated xy plane; see also FIG. 5) between the region R(2) 302 and the region R(3) 303 at a given zenith angle (such as, but not limited to, 90 degrees) and a predetermined (fixed or variable) radial distance ra (fixed), rb (variable). For example, referring to FIG. 4A and the Dk scale 102 therein, at a zenith angle of 90 degrees (i.e., in the xy plane) and varying radial distance rb, the spatially varying Dk of 3D body 200 varies from approximately 3.6 in region R(2) 302, to 1 (air) at an azimuth angle of +90 degrees clockwise from region R(2) 302, to approximately 3.6 in region R(3) 303, to 1 (air) at an azimuth angle of −90 degrees clockwise from region R(3) 303, back to approximately 3.6 in region R(2) 302.

[0020] 2A and 4A-4C, and with reference to the Dk scale 102 in FIG. 4A, it is further recognized that an embodiment of the dielectric lens 100 is further configured such that the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body 200 varies as a function of the radial distance between the common origin 202 and the region R(1) 301, although in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4C, it is further recognized that the Dk value includes a configuration in which the Dk value varies gradually upward from about 1 (e.g., air) in a central region rc 308 near the common origin 202 to about 3.6 in the region R(1) 301. In general, an embodiment of the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body 200 is configured such that the Dk varies gradually upward (i.e., increases) along one or more radial paths as a function of the radial distance between the common origin 202 and one or more of the regions R(i) 300, such as the region R(1) 301. In one embodiment, the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body 200 is configured to vary progressively upward along three or more distinct radial paths having the common origin 202 as a function of the corresponding radial distance between the common origin 202 and one or more of the regions R(i) 300, such as regions R(1) 301, R(2) 302, and R(3) 303. 1, 2A-2B, and 4A-4C illustrate central region rc 308 and / or the region surrounding common origin 202 being air or having a Dk equal to that of air, it is recognized that this is for illustration and / or modeling purposes only, and that central region rc 308 and / or the region surrounding common origin 202 may actually be air or a dielectric medium having a low Dk value close to that of air, such as an air-filled open-cell or closed-cell dielectric foam. As such, it is recognized that 3D body 200 at the common origin has a Dk value equal to or greater than that of air and less than or equal to 1.2.

[0021] As used herein, the term "gradually" does not necessarily mean the absence of a gradual change, e.g., which may exist with the presence of layered shells of dielectric material, but means that across what may be a layered shell interface (or transition zone), the change in Dk value from one region of the 3D body 200 to an adjacent region across the transition zone is at a rate not exceeding + / - 1.9, more particularly + / - 1.5, and even more particularly + / - 1.0. As used herein, the distance across the transition zone from one region of the 3D body 200 to an adjacent region is measured relative to an operating wavelength of 1λ, and in one embodiment, 0.5λ, where λ is the operating wavelength in free space of an operating electromagnetic radiation signal having a predetermined operating frequency. That is, in one embodiment, the distance across the transition zone from one region of the 3D body 200 to an adjacent region is 1λ, and in another embodiment, λ / 2. In one embodiment, the predetermined operating frequency is 40 GHz.

[0022] 2A , with respect to the central region rc 308, an embodiment includes a configuration in which the 3D body 200, for a given radial distance rk 210 from the common origin 202, has a Dk value greater than or equal to that of air and less than or equal to 2, alternatively greater than or equal to that of air and less than or equal to 1.5, and further alternatively greater than or equal to that of air and less than or equal to 1.2. In an embodiment, rk is less than or equal to 2λ, alternatively less than or equal to 1.5λ, alternatively less than or equal to 1λ, alternatively less than or equal to ⅔λ, or further alternatively less than or equal to ½λ.

[0023] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4C, when the phased array antenna 600 is electromagnetically excited, the radial path from the common origin 202 to region R(1) 301 along the Z axis is also seen as the boresight direction of the dielectric lens 100 from the phased array antenna 600, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0024] 2A and 4A-4B, it will be appreciated that one embodiment of dielectric lens 100 includes a configuration further configured such that the spatially varying Dk of 3D body 200 varies as a function of the radial distance between common origin 202 and region R(2) 302 and / or between common origin 202 and region R(3) 303. For example, both Figures 2A and 4A-4B show Dk values ​​of 3D body 200 varying between about 1 (air) at common origin 202 and about 3.6 at regions R(2) 302 and R(3) 303 when viewed in the xy plane along both the +x-axis and the -x-axis.

[0025] In another embodiment, still referring to at least FIGS. 2A and 4A-4B, the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body 200 is further configured to vary from the common origin 202 to the exterior surface region 206 of the 3D body 200 in three or more different radial directions, such as, but not limited to, along the +X axis, along the −X axis, along the +Z axis, etc.

[0026] As explained hereinabove, the three or more regions R(i) 300 of the 3D body 200 having local maxima of the permittivity values ​​Dk(i) may include more than three regions R(i) 300. For example, with particular reference to FIG. 2B (which shows zenith angles in 15 degree increments in both the CW and CCW directions relative to the Z axis as can be seen in FIG. 2B ) in combination with several other figures disclosed herein, one embodiment shows that region R(l) 301 is disposed at a zenith angle (l) (Za1) between 15 degrees CCW and 15 degrees CW, and region R(2) 302 is disposed at a zenith angle (l) (Za1) between 75 degrees CCW and 90 degrees CCW. The configuration includes a region R(3) 303 arranged at a zenith angle (2) (Za2) between 75 degrees CW and 90 degrees CW, a region R(3) 304 arranged at a zenith angle (4) (Za4) between 15 degrees CCW and 75 degrees CCW, and / or a region R(5) 305 arranged at a zenith angle (5) (Za5) between 15 degrees CW and 75 degrees CW. As can be seen by comparing Figures 2A-2B with Figures 1, 3, and 4A-4B, regions R(4) 304 and R(5) 305 are not in the same plane (e.g., the x-z plane) as regions R(l) 301, R(2) 302, and R(3) 303, but are "visible" in Figures 2A-2B because the 3D analytical model of dielectric lens 100 has an internal air pocket 220 (best seen with reference to Figures 4A and 4B) near regions R(4) 304 and R(5) 305, resulting in regions R(4) 304 and R(5) 305 being visible when viewed from the x-z plane section cut of Figures 2A-2B. In fact, it can be seen from several figures that regions R(4) 304 and R(5) 305 are disposed in a plane parallel to the x-z plane and offset from the x-z plane in the -y direction. Although the 3D analytical model of the dielectric lens 100 is described herein as having the air pockets 220 described above, it is recognized that such pockets 220 may actually be air or a dielectric medium having a low Dk value approaching that of air, such as a dielectric foam having open or closed cells filled with air.

[0027] With particular reference to Figures 4B-4C, through the L1-L4 cross sections or slices, it can be seen that one embodiment also includes a configuration in which region R(2) 302 and region R(3) 303 are separated by an azimuth angle of approximately 180 degrees, more generally by an azimuth angle between 150 and 180 degrees, and with particular reference to at least Figure 1, it can also be seen that region R(4) 304 and region R(5) 305 are separated by an azimuth angle of approximately 180 degrees, more generally by an azimuth angle between 150 and 180 degrees.

[0028] In view of the foregoing, and with reference to several figures, and in particular the Dk scale 102, it is recognized that an embodiment includes a configuration in which the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body 200 varies between greater than 1 and less than or equal to 15, alternatively between greater than 1 and less than or equal to 10, further alternatively between greater than 1 and less than or equal to 5, and still further alternatively between greater than 1 and less than or equal to 4. It is also recognized that an embodiment includes a configuration in which each region R(i) 300 having a corresponding local maximum of permittivity value Dk(i) has a Dk greater than or equal to 2 and less than or equal to 15, alternatively between greater than or equal to 3 and less than or equal to 12, further alternatively between greater than or equal to 3 and less than or equal to 9, and still further alternatively between greater than or equal to 3 and less than or equal to 5. In one embodiment, the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body 200 of dielectric material varies gradually as a function of azimuth angle (i), zenith angle (i), and radial distance (i). In one embodiment, the gradually varying Dk of the 3D body 200 of dielectric material varies by no more than a predetermined maximum Dk value per quarter wavelength of the operating frequency, alternatively by no more than a predetermined maximum Dk value per half wavelength of the operating frequency, or still alternatively by no more than a predetermined maximum Dk value per wavelength of the operating frequency. In one embodiment, the predetermined maximum Dk value is + / - 1.9, more particularly + / - 1.5, and even more particularly + / - 1.0.

[0029] Reference is now made to FIG. 6, which shows a top perspective plan view of another exemplary dielectric lens 100′, which is similar to the dielectric lens 100 of FIG. 1, but has a different shape and outer contour compared to the dielectric lens 100 of FIG. 1. As can be seen, in addition to regions R(1) 301, R(2) 302, and R(3) 303, and optional regions R(4) 304 and R(5) 305, having local maxima of permittivity values ​​Dk(i), one embodiment includes a configuration in which the three or more regions R(i) 300 having local maxima of permittivity values ​​Dk(i), as viewed in the xz-plane or the yz-plane (with partial reference to FIG. 2B ), further include region R(6) 306 and region R(7) 307, wherein region R(1) 301 is disposed at a zenith angle (1) between −15 degrees and +15 degrees (see FIG. 2B ), and regions R(2) 302, R(3) 303, R(6) 306, and R(7) 307 are each disposed at a zenith angle (2) that is either between −75 degrees and −90 degrees or between +75 degrees and +90 degrees. In one embodiment, regions R(2) 302 and R(3) 303 are separated by an azimuth angle between 150 and 180 degrees, regions R(6) 306 and R(7) 307 are separated by an azimuth angle between 150 and 180 degrees, regions R(2) 302 and R(6) 306 are separated by an azimuth angle between 30 and 90 degrees, regions R(3) 303 and R(6) 306 are separated by an azimuth angle between 30 and 90 degrees, regions R(2) 302 and R(7) 307 are separated by an azimuth angle between 30 and 90 degrees, and regions R(3) 303 and R(7) 307 are separated by an azimuth angle between 30 and 90 degrees. While FIG. 6 shows a circular outer outline in solid line form for dielectric lens 100′, it is recognized that this is for illustrative purposes only and that dielectric lens 100′ may have any shape suitable for the purposes disclosed herein, any shape being represented by a square outer outline in dashed line form surrounding a circle in solid line form.

[0030] From all of the foregoing, it will be appreciated that the various illustrated embodiments herein, showing various quantities and configurations of regions R(i) 300 having local maxima of permittivity values ​​Dk(i), are merely a few examples of many possible configurations, too numerous to describe indefinitely, but well within the purview of one skilled in the art. As such, any and all such embodiments of regions R(i) 300 that fall within the scope of the appended claims are assumed and considered to be fully and / or essentially disclosed herein by the representative examples presented herein.

[0031] It is also recognized that while certain embodiments of dielectric lens 100, 100' have been described and / or shown as having certain 2D and 3D shapes (e.g., rectangular blocks in FIG. 1 and circular or rectangular footprints in FIG. 6), these are for illustrative purposes only, and that one embodiment of the present invention disclosed herein is not so limited and extends to other 2D and 3D shapes, such as those shown in FIGS. 7A-7J and 8A-8E, without detracting from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, with reference to Figures 7A-8E, any of the dielectric lenses 100, 100' described herein may have a three-dimensional form in the shape of a cylinder 7A, a polygonal box 7B, 7C, a tapered polygonal box 7D, 7E, a cone 7F, a truncated cone 7G, a toroid 7H, a dome 71 (e.g., a hemisphere), an elongated dome 7J, or any other three-dimensional form suitable for the purposes disclosed herein, and thus may have a Z-axis cross-sectional view in the shape of a circle 8A, a rectangle 8B, a polygon 8C, a ring 8D, an ellipsoid 8E, or any other shape suitable for the purposes disclosed herein.

[0032] In view of all of the foregoing, an alternative way of describing the dielectric lens 100 is as a three-dimensional (3D) body 200 of dielectric material having a spatially varying Dk that varies from a common origin 202 to an exterior surface 206 of the 3D body 200 along three or more different rays having different directions and a particular common origin 202, the particular common origin 202 being surrounded by the 3D body 200, and the three or more different rays (see, e.g., FIG. 2A , ray ra through region R(1) 301 and region R(2) 302, and ray rb through region R(4) 304) extending through three or more regions R(i It will be appreciated that the dielectric lens 100 comprising the 3D body 200 defines the locations of corresponding regions among the three or more regions R(i) 300 (301, 302, 304) of the 3D body 200 that have local maxima in dielectric constant values ​​Dk(i) relative to the dielectric material of the surrounding regions immediately adjacent the corresponding region among the three or more regions R(i) 300, wherein the dielectric material of the 3D body 200 has a spatially varying Dk from each of the three or more regions R(i) 300 to any other of the three or more regions R(i) 300 along any path within the 3D body 200 between respective pairs of the three or more regions R(i) 300.

[0033] 1 and 4A-4C, which in addition to everything described and disclosed herein above also disclose an electromagnetic (EM) device 500 including a phased array antenna 600 and a dielectric lens 100 as disclosed herein above, wherein the dielectric lens 100 is constructed and arranged to be in EM communication with the phased array antenna 600 when the phased array antenna 600 is electromagnetically excited. In one embodiment, the phased array antenna 600 is a planar phased array antenna, as shown at least in FIGS. 1 and 4A-4C.

[0034] In one embodiment, the dielectric lens 100 is disposed centrally above the phased array antenna 600, as shown at least in Figures 1 and 4A-4C. In one embodiment, the dielectric lens 100 has a footprint that is larger than the corresponding footprint of the phased array antenna 600 when viewed in a top plan view, as shown at least in FIGS. 1 and 4A-4C, such that the dielectric lens 100 extends beyond the edge 602 (best seen with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2A) of the phased array antenna 600.

[0035] In one embodiment, a portion of the dielectric lens 100 at a 90 degree zenith angle has a Dk value that increases, then decreases, then increases again along a particular radial direction from the common origin 202 outward beyond the edge 602 of the phased array antenna 600, e.g., along the + / - x-axis (best seen with reference to Figures 4A-4C). For example, along the +x-axis, at cross-sectional views L3 and L4 shown in Figures 4B and 4C, dielectric lens 100 has a Dk value that increases from about or near 1 at common origin 202 (shown here as being in an air region) to a value of about 3.6 in region 310 near edge 602 of phased array antenna 600, then decreases to about 1.2 in region 310 and region 312 beyond edge 602 of phased array antenna 600, and then increases again to about 3.6 beyond region 312 and in region 314 further beyond edge 602 of phased array antenna 600. Stated alternatively, one embodiment of lens 100 includes a configuration in which 3D body 200 has relatively high Dk regions 314 outside relatively low Dk regions 312 in a radial direction from common origin 202 at a zenith angle of + / -90 degrees (e.g., in the xz plane) toward the exterior surface 206 of 3D body 200 for a given azimuth angle, the relatively low Dk regions 312 are outside relatively high Dk regions 310, and the relatively high Dk regions 310 are outside the relatively low Dk regions at common origin 202. Without being bound by any particular theory, through analytical modeling, it has been found that the presence of low Dk pockets, e.g., regions 312, just beyond the edges 602 of phased array antenna 600 enhances the EM radiation pattern from phased array antenna 600 to facilitate beam steering of EM wavefronts + / -90 degrees relative to the direction of propagation of the EM wavefront originating from phased array antenna 600.

[0036] As described hereinabove, one embodiment of EM device 500 includes phased array antenna 600, which is a planar phased array antenna, as shown not only in Figures 1 and 4A-4C but also in Figure 9A, where individual antenna elements 650 are shown in an exemplary 5x6 array disposed on a planar substrate 620. As will be appreciated from the foregoing description of dielectric lens 100, one embodiment as disclosed herein includes a configuration in which a single dielectric lens 100 is disposed in EM communication with the entire phased array antenna 600.

[0037] While the embodiments described herein above refer to and illustrate a planar phased array antenna 600, it is recognized that the embodiments disclosed herein are not so limited and also encompass non-planar configurations of phased array antennas, which will now be discussed with reference to Figures 9B-9C in combination with Figures 1-8E and 9A.

[0038] Figure 9B illustrates the non-planar substrate 622 in the form of a sphere, and Figure 9C illustrates the non-planar substrate 624 in the form of a cylinder. And, while Figures 9B and 9C illustrate a perfect sphere and a perfect cylinder, respectively, it will be recognized that hemispheres and hemicylinders are also contemplated. In one embodiment, an array of individual antenna elements 650 may be strategically disposed on either the convex or concave surface of each spherical substrate 622 or cylindrical substrate 624, and a dielectric lens 100, 100' of any form disclosed herein may be disposed on the array of antenna elements 650.

[0039] In one embodiment, each of the antenna elements 650 in the phased array antenna 600 can be operated with phase angle control or amplitude control, or alternatively, with both phase angle control and amplitude control of the excitation signal to achieve optimal antenna system performance throughout ±90 degrees relative to the direction of propagation of the EM wavefront. In one embodiment, the ±90 degrees control relative to the direction of propagation can be relative to the horizontal or vertical axis (see, e.g., lens 100 in FIGS. 1-4C), or relative to both the horizontal and vertical axes (see, e.g., lens 100' in FIG. 6).

[0040] Accordingly, one embodiment includes a phased array antenna that is a non-planar phased array antenna, and it is recognized that the non-planar phased array antenna has a spherical or cylindrical surface or is disposed on a spherical or cylindrical surface. In one embodiment, the phased array antenna is configured to emit EM radiation toward the dielectric lens from a convex side, a concave side, or both the convex and concave sides of the spherical surface. In one embodiment, the phased array antenna is configured to emit EM radiation toward the dielectric lens from a convex side, a concave side, or both the convex and concave sides of a cylindrical surface.

[0041] While the foregoing description of non-planar phased array antennas has been made with reference to either spherical or cylindrical surfaces, it will be appreciated that the scope of the disclosure herein is not so limited and encompasses other non-planar surfaces, such as, but not limited to, spheroidal, ellipsoidal, or hyperbolic surfaces. Any and all surfaces falling within the scope of the appended claims are contemplated and considered inherently disclosed herein.

[0042] With regard to the foregoing description of EM device 500 having any form of substrate 620, 622, 624, with any configuration of antenna elements 650 disposed thereon, and with any form of dielectric lens 100, 100′ configured and arranged as disclosed herein, one embodiment of EM device 500 is configured such that phased array antenna 600 is configured and adapted to operate in a frequency range of greater than or equal to 1 GHz and less than or equal to 300 GHz, alternatively greater than or equal to 10 GHz and less than or equal to 90 GHz, alternatively greater than or equal to 20 GHz and less than or equal to 60 GHz, and alternatively greater than or equal to 20 GHz and less than or equal to 40 GHz. In one embodiment, phased array antenna 600 is configured and adapted to operate at millimeter-wave frequencies, which in one embodiment are 5G millimeter-wave frequencies. While certain combinations of individual features have been described and illustrated herein, it is recognized that these certain combinations of features are for illustrative purposes only, and that any combination of any such individual features may be employed in accordance with an embodiment and consistent with the present disclosure herein, regardless of whether such combination is explicitly exemplified herein. Any and all such combinations of features as disclosed herein are contemplated herein and are considered to be within the understanding of one of ordinary skill in the art when considered as a whole, and are considered to be within the scope of the invention disclosed herein to the extent that they, in the manner understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, fall within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0043] In consideration of all of the foregoing, it will be appreciated that some of the embodiments disclosed herein may provide one or more of the following advantages: an EM beam steering device that allows for plus / minus 90 degree beam steering with minimal degradation in gain when placed on a planar phased array antenna up to 5G mmWave frequencies; an EM beam steering device that allows for an increased radiation field coverage area with a one-third to one-half reduction in the number of base station segments required; and an EM dielectric lens with multiple distinct focus regions with local maxima in permittivity values ​​such that the lens constructively refracts incident EM radiation with the other focus regions of the lens to achieve a given desired angle of radiation.

[0044] While the invention has been described herein with reference to illustrative embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the claims. Many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the particular embodiment or embodiments disclosed herein as the best or only mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but the invention is intended to include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. In the drawings and description, illustrative embodiments are disclosed, and specific terms and / or dimensions may be employed, but these are used in a generic, illustrative, and / or descriptive sense only, and not for purposes of limitation, unless otherwise stated, and the scope of the claims is therefore not limited in any way. When an element, such as a layer, film, region, substrate, or other described feature, is referred to as being "on" another element, the element may be directly on the other element, or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, there are no intervening elements present. The use of the terms first, second, etc. does not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms a, b, c, d, etc. are used to distinguish one element from another. The use of the terms a, an, etc. does not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denotes the presence of at least one of the referenced item. The term "comprising," as used herein, does not exclude the possible inclusion of one or more additional features. Any background information provided herein is provided to identify information believed by the applicant to be potentially relevant to the invention disclosed herein. No admission is necessarily intended, nor should it be construed, that any such background information constitutes prior art to one embodiment of the present invention disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A dielectric lens, a three-dimensional (3D) body of dielectric material having a spatially varying dielectric constant (Dk); the 3D body has three or more regions R(i) having local maxima of permittivity values ​​Dk(i) with respect to surrounding regions of each of the three or more regions R(i), the positions of the three or more regions R(i) being defined by local coordinates of azimuth angle (i), zenith angle (i), and radial distance (i) relative to a particular common origin associated with the 3D body, where (i) is an index ranging from 1 to 3 or more; the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body is configured to vary at least as a function of the zenith angle between regions R(1) and R(2) at a given azimuth angle and at a given radial distance; each associated surrounding region of each of the three or more regions R(i) is in close proximity to and completely surrounds the associated region R(i) having a permittivity value that is less than the value of a respective one of the local maxima of permittivity values ​​Dk(i); The given radial distance is a constant distance, and the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body is further configured to vary as a function of the zenith angle between the region R(1) and the region R(2) at the given azimuth angle and at a variable distance that varies as a function of the zenith angle.

2. 10. The dielectric lens of claim 1, further configured such that the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body varies as a function of the zenith angle between regions R(1) and R(3) at a given azimuth angle and at a given radial distance.

3. 3. The dielectric lens of claim 2, further configured such that the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body varies as a function of the azimuth angle between the region R(2) and the region R(3) at a given zenith angle and at a given radial distance.

4. 4. The dielectric lens of claim 1, further configured such that the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body varies as a function of the radial distance between the particular common origin and R(1).

5. 5. The dielectric lens of claim 1, further configured such that the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body varies as a function of the radial distance between the particular common origin and R(2).

6. 6. The dielectric lens of claim 1, further configured such that the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body varies as a function of the radial distance between the particular common origin and R(3).

7. The dielectric lens of claim 1 , wherein the 3D body has a base region and an outer surface region, and the particular common origin is at the base region.

8. 8. The dielectric lens of claim 7, further configured such that the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body varies from the particular common origin to the exterior surface region in three or more different radial directions.

9. 9. The dielectric lens of claim 1, wherein R(2) and R(3) are at corresponding azimuth angles that are 180 degrees apart and are symmetrical to each other.

10. 9. The dielectric lens of claim 1, wherein R(2) and R(3) are at corresponding azimuth angles 180 degrees apart and are symmetrical with respect to each other and to R(1).

11. The dielectric lens of claim 1 , wherein the 3D body at the particular common origin has a Dk greater than or equal to that of air and less than or equal to 1.

2.

12. The dielectric lens of claim 1 , wherein the 3D body at a given radial distance rk from the particular common origin has a Dk greater than or equal to Dk in air and less than or equal to 2.

13. The dielectric lens of claim 1 , wherein the 3D body at a given radial distance rk from the particular common origin has a Dk greater than or equal to Dk in air and less than or equal to 1.

5.

14. The dielectric lens of claim 1 , wherein the 3D body at a given radial distance rk from the particular common origin has a Dk greater than or equal to Dk in air and less than or equal to 1.

2.

15. 15. A dielectric lens as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein rk is 2λ or less, alternatively 1.5λ or less, alternatively 1λ or less, alternatively ⅔λ or less, or further alternatively ½λ or less, where λ is the wavelength in free space of the operating electromagnetic radiation signal.

16. 16. The dielectric lens of claim 15, wherein the operating electromagnetic radiation signal is operable in a frequency range from 1 GHz to 300 GHz, alternatively from 10 GHz to 90 GHz, further alternatively from 20 GHz to 60 GHz, and further alternatively from 20 GHz to 40 GHz.

17. 17. The dielectric lens of claim 1, wherein R(1) is disposed at a zenith angle (1) greater than or equal to 0 degrees and less than or equal to 15 degrees.

18. 18. The dielectric lens of claim 1, wherein R(2) is disposed at a zenith angle (2) greater than or equal to 75 degrees and less than or equal to 90 degrees.

19. 18. The dielectric lens of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein R(3) is disposed at a zenith angle (3) greater than or equal to 75 degrees and less than or equal to 90 degrees.

20. Further comprising a region R(4), 18. The dielectric lens of claim 1, wherein R(4) is disposed at a zenith angle (4) of greater than or equal to 15 degrees and less than or equal to 75 degrees.

21. Further comprising a region R(5), 18. The dielectric lens of claim 1, wherein R(5) is disposed at a zenith angle (5) of greater than or equal to 15 degrees and less than or equal to 75 degrees.

22. 22. The dielectric lens of claim 1, wherein R(2) and R(3) are separated by an azimuth angle greater than or equal to 150 degrees and less than or equal to 180 degrees.

23. 22. The dielectric lens of claim 20 or 21, wherein R(4) and R(5) are separated by an azimuth angle greater than or equal to 150 degrees and less than or equal to 180 degrees.

24. 24. The dielectric lens of any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body varies between greater than 1 and less than or equal to 15, alternatively between greater than 1 and less than or equal to 10, further alternatively between greater than 1 and less than or equal to 5, and further alternatively between greater than 1 and less than or equal to 4.

25. 25. The dielectric lens of claim 1, wherein each local maximum of the dielectric constant values ​​Dk(i) of corresponding regions of the three or more regions R(i) has a Dk greater than or equal to 2 and less than or equal to 15, alternatively greater than or equal to 3 and less than or equal to 12, further alternatively greater than or equal to 3 and less than or equal to 9, and further alternatively greater than or equal to 3 and less than or equal to 5.

26. 26. The dielectric lens of claim 1, wherein the three or more regions R(i) having local maxima of the dielectric constant value Dk(i) further include a region R(6) and a region R(7), wherein the region R(1) is disposed at a zenith angle (1) greater than or equal to 0 degrees and less than or equal to 15 degrees, and the regions R(2), R(3), R(6), and R(7) are each disposed at a zenith angle (2) that is either greater than or equal to +15 degrees and less than or equal to +90 degrees, or greater than or equal to -15 degrees and less than or equal to -90 degrees.

27. Region R(2) and region R(3) are separated by an azimuth angle greater than or equal to 150 degrees and less than or equal to 180 degrees; Regions R(6) and R(7) are separated by an azimuth angle greater than or equal to 150 degrees and less than or equal to 180 degrees; Regions R(2) and R(6) are separated by an azimuth angle greater than or equal to 30 degrees and less than or equal to 90 degrees; Regions R(3) and R(6) are separated by an azimuth angle greater than or equal to 30 degrees and less than or equal to 90 degrees; Regions R(2) and R(7) are separated by an azimuth angle greater than or equal to 30 degrees and less than or equal to 90 degrees; 27. The dielectric lens of claim 26, wherein regions R(3) and R(7) are separated by an azimuth angle greater than or equal to 30 degrees and less than or equal to 90 degrees.

28. 28. The dielectric lens of claim 1, wherein the spatially varying Dk of the 3D body of dielectric material varies gradually as a function of the azimuth angle (i), the zenith angle (i), and the radial distance (i).

29. 30. The dielectric lens of claim 28, wherein the gradually varying Dk of the 3D body of dielectric material varies by no more than a predetermined maximum Dk value per one wavelength of the operating frequency, alternatively by no more than a predetermined maximum Dk value per one-half wavelength of the operating frequency, and further alternatively by no more than a predetermined maximum Dk value per one-quarter wavelength of the operating frequency.

30. 30. The dielectric lens of claim 29, wherein the predetermined maximum Dk value is + / -1.9, in particular + / -1.5, and more in particular + / -1.

0.

31. A dielectric lens, a three-dimensional (3D) body of dielectric material having a spatially varying Dk, the spatially varying Dk varying along three or more different paths having different directions and a common origin from the common origin to an exterior surface of the 3D body, the common origin being surrounded by the 3D body; the three or more different paths define locations of corresponding regions of the three or more regions R(i) of the 3D body that have local maxima of permittivity values ​​Dk(i) relative to the dielectric material of immediately adjacent surrounding regions of the corresponding regions of the three or more regions R(i), where (i) is an index ranging from 1 to 3 or more; the dielectric material of the 3D body has a Dk that varies spatially from each of the three or more regions R(i) to any other of the three or more regions R(i) along any path within the 3D body; a dielectric lens that is immediately proximate to and completely surrounds the associated region R(i), wherein each of the associated dielectric materials of the immediately adjacent surrounding regions of the corresponding one of the three or more regions R(i) has a dielectric constant value that is less than the value of the respective one of the local maxima of dielectric constant values ​​Dk(i).

32. 1. An electromagnetic (EM) device comprising: a phased array antenna; The dielectric lens according to claim 1, The EM device, wherein the dielectric lens is constructed and arranged to be in EM communication with the phased array antenna when electromagnetically excited.

33. 33. The EM device of claim 32, wherein the dielectric lens is centrally disposed on top of the phased array antenna.

34. 34. The EM device of claim 32 or 33, wherein the dielectric lens has a footprint when viewed in a top plan view that is larger than a corresponding footprint of the phased array antenna, and the dielectric lens extends beyond an edge of the phased array antenna.

35. 35. The EM device of claim 34, wherein a portion of the dielectric lens at a 90 degree zenith angle has a Dk that increases, then decreases, then increases again along a particular radial direction from the particular common origin outward beyond the edge of the phased array antenna.

36. 36. The EM device of any one of claims 32 to 35, wherein the phased array antenna is a planar phased array antenna.

37. 36. The EM device of any one of claims 32 to 35, wherein the phased array antenna is a non-planar phased array antenna.

38. 38. The EM device of claim 37, wherein the non-planar phased array antenna has a cylindrical surface or is disposed on a cylindrical surface.

39. 40. The EM device of claim 38, wherein the phased array antenna is configured to emit EM radiation from a concave side of the cylindrical surface toward the dielectric lens.

40. 40. The EM device of claim 38, wherein the phased array antenna is configured to emit EM radiation from a convex side of the cylindrical surface toward the dielectric lens.

41. 38. The EM device of claim 37, wherein the non-planar phased array antenna has a spherical surface or is disposed on a spherical surface.

42. 42. The EM device of claim 41 , wherein the phased array antenna is configured to emit EM radiation from a concave side of the spherical surface toward the dielectric lens.

43. 42. The EM device of claim 41 , wherein the phased array antenna is configured to emit EM radiation from a convex side of the spherical surface toward the dielectric lens.

44. 44. The EM device of any one of claims 32 to 43, wherein the phased array antenna is configured such that each individual antenna element is controllable with respect to signal phase angle or both signal phase angle and signal amplitude.

45. 45. The EM device of claim 44, wherein the phased array antenna is configured for beam steering at + / - 90 degrees relative to a direction of propagation of a corresponding EM radiation wavefront.

46. 46. ​​The EM device of claim 45, wherein the beam steering of the + / -90 degrees is for horizontal polarization, vertical polarization, or orthogonal polarization consisting of both horizontal and vertical polarization.

47. 47. The EM device of any one of claims 32 to 46, wherein the phased array antenna is configured and adapted to operate in a frequency range greater than or equal to 1 GHz and less than or equal to 300 GHz, alternatively greater than or equal to 10 GHz and less than or equal to 90 GHz, further alternatively greater than or equal to 20 GHz and less than or equal to 60 GHz, and still alternatively greater than or equal to 20 GHz and less than or equal to 40 GHz.

48. 47. The EM device of any one of claims 32 to 46, wherein the phased array antenna is configured and adapted to operate in a frequency range greater than or equal to 30 GHz and less than or equal to 300 GHz.

49. An EM device described in any one of claims 32 to 46, wherein the phased array antenna is configured and adapted to operate in the 28 GHz frequency band.

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