Concentric Helical Antenna Layout for Compact Multi-Band Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
The limited available volume on spacecraft platforms poses a challenge for accommodating multiple antennas with different frequency bands, necessitating a compact multi-band antenna system.
Innovation Solution
A multi-band concentric helical antenna system is developed, where two or more helical antennas with different frequency bands are positioned concentrically within a single aperture, utilizing cups and chokes to minimize space and enhance performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate antennas are installed on a spacecraft, then each antenna can operate at its designated frequency band, but the available volume on the spacecraft platform is exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested antenna configuration where a first helical antenna is positioned inside a second helical antenna, both sharing a common aperture on the spacecraft platform. This nested arrangement allows multiple antennas with different frequency bands to occupy the same spatial footprint, thereby reducing the overall volume required while maintaining multi-band operational capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional antenna system where a single aperture serves multiple frequency bands through the nested helical antenna configuration. The shared aperture and common mounting structure enable one location to perform multiple communication functions across different frequency ranges, eliminating the need for separate dedicated antenna locations for each band
2Volume of moving object
If multiple antennas are positioned close together, then space is saved, but signal interference between antennas increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality differentiation by providing each nested antenna with its own dedicated choke structure and cup configuration. These localized electromagnetic shielding elements are positioned specifically around each antenna to control current distribution and minimize coupling effects, thereby reducing signal interference while maintaining the compact nested arrangement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces chokes as intermediary electromagnetic shielding structures between the nested helical antennas. These chokes act as mediators that control and redirect surface currents, preventing unwanted electromagnetic coupling between the inner and outer antennas while allowing both to operate in close proximity without significant interference
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided herein are systems and methods for multi-band helical antennas. The multi-band concentric helical antenna system includes a base, a first helical antenna and at least a second helical antenna, wherein the second helical antenna is within the first helical antenna, wherein the first helical antenna has a first frequency band and the second helical antenna has a second frequency band which is not the same as the first frequency band, and wherein the first helical antenna and the second helical antenna are connected to the base and positioned within an aperture of the base. The multi-band helical antenna system may further include N additional antennas, and may be used as a single radiating element or in an array of radiating elements.