Corrugated Stacked Patch Antenna for Space-Constrained LEO Satellites
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Satellite antennas face challenges due to physical constraints such as limited space and weight limitations, particularly in micro or nanosatellites, while requiring improved communication efficiency, low power consumption, and operation over larger frequency bandwidths.
Innovation Solution
The design of a stacked patch antenna configuration with parallel antenna patch bodies separated by a central post, featuring surface corrugations and a unitary body formed by 3D printing, allows for efficient RF performance within constrained satellite spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If traditional antenna designs are used in satellites, then communication functionality is provided, but the antenna size and weight increase, consuming valuable satellite space and mass
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a stacked patch antenna configuration where multiple antenna patches are nested vertically along a central axis. The first antenna patch is positioned above the second antenna patch, both coupled to the same base structure. This nesting approach allows multiple communication functions to be integrated within a compact volume, significantly reducing the overall antenna footprint and weight while maintaining reliable communication capabilities across different frequency bands
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional planar antenna layouts to a three-dimensional stacked configuration. By arranging antenna patches in the vertical dimension rather than spreading them out horizontally, the design achieves enhanced communication functionality without increasing the satellite's lateral space requirements. The vertical stacking along the central axis enables multi-frequency operation while constraining the antenna within a compact envelope
2Area of stationary object
If antenna size is reduced to fit micro or nanosatellites, then space constraints are satisfied, but communication bandwidth and scan performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The stacked patch antenna nests multiple radiating elements vertically, with each patch contributing to different frequency bands. The first and second antenna patches are positioned at different heights above the base, allowing simultaneous operation across extended frequency ranges. This vertical nesting enables compact antennas to achieve broadband performance that would otherwise require much larger planar structures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent exploits the vertical dimension to achieve frequency diversity in a compact footprint. By spacing the antenna patches vertically along the central axis at specific distances, the design enables operation across multiple frequency bands without increasing the horizontal area. This three-dimensional arrangement provides the frequency adaptability needed for modern communication systems while satisfying strict area constraints
3Productivity
If multiple antenna elements are added to improve communication efficiency, then scan performance and bandwidth increase, but the number of components and mechanical complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple antenna functions into a single integrated stacked structure. The first and second antenna patches share a common base and central support structure, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware and feed systems for each element. This consolidation reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining enhanced communication efficiency through multi-frequency operation and improved scan performance
Solution Approach 2:
The stacked patch antenna design achieves multi-functionality within a single structure. The vertical arrangement of patches enables simultaneous operation across different frequency bands, provides diverse scanning capabilities, and maintains polarisation flexibility. This universal design approach delivers improved communication efficiency without proportionally increasing structural complexity, as all functions are integrated into one compact antenna assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Antennas suitable for deployment as part of a satellite, such as a low earth orbit (LEO) satellite. Some embodiments relate to antenna arrays for LEO satellites. An antenna, including a base; a first antenna patch body; and a second antenna patch body disposed substantially parallel to and spaced from the first antenna patch body; wherein the first and second antenna patch bodies are aligned along a central axis and coupled to the base; and wherein each of the first and second antenna patch bodies define surface corrugations.