Deployable Antenna Array With Isolated Ground Planes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing deployable antenna systems face challenges in efficiently transitioning between stowed and deployed configurations without complex electrical connections and maintaining structural integrity and RF performance.
Innovation Solution
A deployable antenna array design featuring first and second antenna array elements, where the second elements act as ground planes without electrical conductors, allowing for relative pivoting to change spatial relationships, enabling deployment without flexible connections and maintaining RF functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional deployable antenna systems use flexible electrical connections to maintain RF continuity during deployment, then RF performance is maintained, but device complexity and potential points of failure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes flexible electrical connections from the deployable antenna system entirely. The ground plane elements are electrically isolated during deployment, eliminating the need for complex flexible conductors while maintaining RF functionality through capacitive coupling or image theory effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the ground plane elements serve both mechanical deployment functions and electromagnetic functions without direct electrical connection. The separation allows independent optimization of mechanical deployment while maintaining RF performance through field interaction rather than direct conduction.
2Reliability
If deployable antenna systems use complex electrical connections to maintain continuity during deployment, then RF performance is maintained, but ease of manufacture and maintenance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By removing flexible electrical connections from the system, the patent dramatically simplifies manufacturing. Individual antenna elements and ground plane elements can be manufactured separately using standard techniques without requiring specialized flexible conductor fabrication or complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna system is divided into independent modular elements (radiator elements and ground plane elements) that can be manufactured, tested, and assembled separately. This segmentation enables standardized production processes and simplifies both manufacturing and field maintenance.
3Volume of moving object
If deployable antenna systems prioritize compact stowed configuration, then storage efficiency improves, but structural integrity during deployment may compromise
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is segmented into multiple independent elements connected by simple mechanical joints. This segmentation allows the structure to fold into a compact stowed configuration while each element maintains its structural integrity independently, avoiding stress concentration that would occur in monolithic designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic mechanical connections (hinges or pivots) between antenna elements that allow the structure to transition smoothly between compact stowed configuration and deployed configuration. These dynamic joints distribute mechanical stresses during deployment while maintaining structural integrity of individual elements.
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 simplifies deployment and maintenance, reduces costs, and enhances structural robustness while maintaining RF performance across configurations, allowing for efficient and compact storage and expanded operation.
Implementation Method 1
said antenna radiator elements and supporting/conditioning circuitry of each said first antenna array element are configured, in operation of the antenna array with said antenna array in said deployed configuration, for at least one of radiating and receiving RF energy in a direction parallel to said at least one boresight axis in cooperation with a respective said ground plane provided by at least one respective said second antenna array element
Data Source
AI summary
A deployable antenna array is provided having at least one boresight axis, and including a first plurality of first antenna array elements and a second plurality of second antenna array elements separate from the first plurality of first antenna array elements, the antenna array being configured for being selectively deployable at least from a stowed configuration to a deployed configuration. A radar system including an antenna array, a telecommunication system including an antenna array, and a method for deploying an antenna array are also provided.