3D Conformal Antenna Arrays for Wide-Angle Beam Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current high gain antennas, such as reflectarrays and transmitarrays, have limited beamwidth coverage, typically up to 45°, due to their directive radiation properties, which is insufficient for providing effective mobile coverage in narrow streets and old city centers where steeper beam directions are required.
Innovation Solution
The development of three-dimensional (3D) conformal radiating elements for antenna arrays, including patches, dipoles, and loops, which are designed to be conformal on a hemispherical shape and made from conductive materials, allowing for a wider beamwidth coverage of at least 60° with minimal gain drop from the broadside, achieved through innovative manufacturing methods like 3D printing and metallization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If traditional directive radiation elements are used in array antennas, then high gain is achieved, but beamwidth coverage is limited to approximately 45°
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies spheroidality by transitioning from traditional planar radiating elements to three-dimensional conformal radiating elements that follow a spherical geometry. The radiating elements are positioned on and conform to a spherical surface, enabling the antenna array to achieve wide beamwidth coverage (at least 60°) while maintaining stable gain characteristics. The spherical configuration allows the elements to radiate in multiple directions simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between wide coverage and gain stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dimensionality change by moving from two-dimensional planar arrays to three-dimensional spherical arrays. The radiating elements are distributed across the surface of a sphere rather than being confined to a flat plane. This spatial reconfiguration enables the antenna to achieve both wide beamwidth coverage and maintained gain stability by utilizing the additional dimensional space for optimized element positioning and radiation patterns.
2Area of moving object
If 3D conformal radiating elements are used to achieve wider beamwidth coverage, then manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing additive manufacturing (3D printing) technology to fabricate the complex three-dimensional conformal radiating elements. This manufacturing approach transforms the production process from traditional complex assembly operations to a single-step printing process, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity despite the intricate spherical geometry of the elements. The 3D printing technology enables direct fabrication of the conformal structures with precise geometric control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical manufacturing and assembly systems with additive manufacturing technology. Instead of using conventional methods such as precision machining, bending, and assembly of multiple components, the radiating elements are directly printed as monolithic structures. This substitution of manufacturing methodology significantly simplifies the production process while maintaining the complex three-dimensional conformal geometry required for wide beamwidth coverage.
Data Source
AI summary
Antenna arrays with three-dimensional (3D) conformal radiating elements are provided, as well as methods of manufacturing and methods of using the same. An array can include a ground plane and a plurality of unit cells disposed thereon. Each unit cell can include a 3D conformal radiating element. The 3D conformal radiating elements can be, for example, patches (e.g., circular 3D patches), dipoles, or loops, and each radiating element is conformal on a hemispherical shape.