Curved-Waveguide RF Module for Dense Radiating Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radiofrequency modules for direct radiating arrays face challenges in minimizing the spacing between radiating elements to reduce secondary lobes while accommodating the size requirements of polarizers and electronic amplification circuits, which are often bulky and heavy, making them unsuitable for applications like satellites.
Innovation Solution
A radiofrequency module design comprising multiple layers with waveguides that converge or diverge to independently control the spacing between radiating elements and ports, allowing for closer element placement and separate positioning of polarizers and electronic circuits, achieved through additive manufacturing for precise assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the spacing between radiating elements is reduced to minimize secondary lobes, then the directivity and gain are improved, but the minimum size required by polarizers and electronic amplification circuits cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar arrangement to a three-dimensional stacked architecture with multiple layers (radiating element layer, polarizer layer, electronic circuit layer, waveguide layer). This vertical dimensionality change allows compact spacing between radiating elements in the horizontal plane while providing sufficient area in the vertical dimension for polarizers and electronic circuits, resolving the spatial conflict between these components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested configuration where polarizers and electronic amplification circuits are positioned within or adjacent to the waveguide structures. The waveguides serve as integrated housings that contain both the transmission path and the associated electronic components, allowing compact integration without increasing the overall footprint of the antenna system
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the spacing between radiating elements is reduced, then the amplitude of secondary transmission or reception lobes is reduced, but the overall dimensions of electronic amplification and phase-shifting circuits cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent distributes electronic amplification and phase-shifting circuits across multiple vertical layers rather than confining them to a single planar layer. This vertical distribution reduces the horizontal footprint required for these circuits, enabling closer spacing between radiating elements and thereby reducing secondary lobe amplitude while still accommodating the necessary electronic volume
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions (amplification, phase-shifting, signal transmission) into integrated waveguide modules where electronic circuits are positioned within or immediately adjacent to the waveguide structures. This merging of functions into unified modules reduces the overall volume required for electronic systems while maintaining their performance
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
This design reduces undesirable secondary lobes and facilitates integration of larger radiating elements and polarizers, while minimizing the overall module size, suitable for applications requiring compact and efficient signal transmission.
Implementation Method 1
each radiating element having a cross section for supporting at least one wave propagation mode
Data Source
AI summary
Radiofrequency module, including: a first layer including an array of radiating elements, each radiating element having a cross section for supporting at least one wave propagation mode, a second layer forming an array of waveguides; a fourth layer forming an array of ports; the second layer being interposed between the first and the fourth layer; each waveguide being connected to a port on the one hand and to a radiating element on the other hand for transmitting a radiofrequency signal between this port and this radiating element; the spacing between two ports being different from the spacing between the radiating elements, so that the surface area of the first layer is different from the surface area of the fourth layer; the waveguides being curved.