Circularly Polarized Array Antenna With Electronic Beam Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phased array antennas for millimeter-wave communications lack efficient mechanisms to achieve circular polarization and precise beam steering without physical movement of antenna elements.
Innovation Solution
A circularly polarized array antenna system comprising a plurality of isolated magnetic dipole elements and parasitic elements, coupled with a phase shifter circuit, allows for phase control and electromagnetic tuning to generate circularly polarized radiation patterns and steer beams across azimuth and elevation planes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional phased array antennas are used for millimeter-wave communications, then basic beam steering capability is achieved, but circular polarization and precise beam steering without physical movement cannot be efficiently achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is divided into multiple independent antenna elements, each capable of generating circularly polarized waves. By segmenting the overall antenna into discrete elements with specific orientations and feed configurations, the system achieves circular polarization capability while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to the antenna elements, with conductive strips arranged in specific three-dimensional configurations. This dimensional arrangement, combined with phase shifter circuits, enables circular polarization by creating phase differences between different spatial components of the radiated waves.
2Ease of operation
If physical movement of antenna elements is used for beam steering, then beam direction control is achieved, but the system becomes mechanically complex and less reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical beam steering systems with an electronic phase control system. Phase shifter circuits are integrated into each antenna element, allowing beam direction to be controlled by adjusting electrical phase parameters rather than physically moving antenna components. This substitution eliminates mechanical complexity while maintaining precise beam steering capability.
3Reliability
If conventional antenna designs are used, then basic radiation is achieved, but efficient circular polarization and millimeter wave performance are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes specific geometric parameters of the antenna elements, including the dimensions and spacing of conductive strips, to achieve resonance at millimeter wave frequencies. By carefully controlling parameters such as strip width, length, and separation distances, the design achieves efficient circular polarization and millimeter wave performance while maintaining compatibility with standard PCB fabrication processes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient beam steering and circular polarization across millimeter wave frequencies, enhancing communication capabilities without physical movement of antenna elements.
Implementation Method 1
A circularly polarized array antenna for millimeter wave communications may include a plurality of isolated magnetic dipole elements and parasitic elements
Implementation Method 2
coupled with a phase shifter circuit, allows for phase control and electromagnetic tuning to generate circularly polarized radiation patterns and steer beams
Data Source
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AI summary
A circularly polarized array antenna is provided. The circularly polarized array antenna includes a ground plane and a plurality of circularly polarized antennas. Each of the circularly polarized antennas is configured to communicate over a frequency band ranging from 24 gigahertz (GHz) to 52 GHz. Each of the circularly polarized antennas includes a column substrate coupled to the ground plane. The column substrate includes a plurality of faces. Each of the circularly polarized antennas further includes a plurality of isolated magnetic dipole elements. Each of the isolated magnetic dipole elements is disposed on a different face of the column substrate.