Dielectric Resonator Array With Offset Feeds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current antenna array designs face challenges in reducing size while maintaining signal coupling and beam scanning performance, as theoretical limitations restrict the miniaturization of single radiator size and signal coupling between nearest neighbors.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a periodic array of dielectric resonators with offset signal feeds and angled magnetic poles, allowing for improved gain and beam scanning in a miniaturized very high frequency antenna, integrated with existing fabrication processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the array size is reduced, then the antenna becomes more compact, but signal coupling between nearest neighbors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by offsetting the signal feeds from the centers of the dielectric resonators. Instead of symmetric feeding at the center, the feeds are positioned at offset locations, which creates asymmetric current distribution and magnetic dipole orientations. This asymmetric feeding configuration reduces unwanted coupling between adjacent resonators while maintaining compact array dimensions, directly addressing the technical contradiction between miniaturization and coupling control.
2Volume of moving object
If the single radiator size is reduced, then the array can be miniaturized, but beam scanning performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by modifying the feeding configuration (offset feeds) and resonator geometry to alter the magnetic dipole characteristics. These parameter changes enable compact radiators to maintain effective beam scanning performance through constructive interference control, resolving the contradiction between miniaturization and performance reliability.
3Area of stationary object
If the resonators are spaced closer together, then the array area is reduced, but constructive interference is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The offset signal feed configuration creates asymmetric current paths that control the phase and amplitude of radiation from each resonator. This asymmetric feeding enables closer spacing of resonators while maintaining constructive interference in desired directions, thereby reducing array area without compromising beam forming reliability.
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 approach results in a reduced array size with enhanced beam scanning performance and improved signal coupling, achieving better constructive interference and reduced coupling between adjacent resonators.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of spaced apart dielectric resonators operable at a defined radiation wavelength... each resonator being disposed on and in electrical communication with the ground layer
Implementation Method 2
Each respective signal feed provides a respective electrical signal path through respective ones of the plurality of resonators that defines an orientation of a resulting magnetic dipole vector
Implementation Method 3
each pair of closest adjacent ones of the resulting magnetic dipole vectors are oriented parallel with each other but not in linear alignment with each other
Data Source
AI summary
An array apparatus includes: an electrically conductive ground layer; a plurality of spaced apart dielectric resonators operable at a defined radiation wavelength, the plurality of resonators being spaced apart on an x, y grid having respective x and y dimensions between closest adjacent resonators that are each less than the defined radiation wavelength, each resonator being disposed on and in electrical communication with the ground layer; and, a plurality of spaced apart signal feeds disposed in one-to-one relationship with respective ones of the plurality of resonators. Each signal feed provides a respective electrical signal path through respective ones of the plurality of resonators that defines an orientation of a resulting magnetic dipole vector associated with the corresponding ones of the plurality of resonators; and each pair of closest adjacent ones of the resulting magnetic dipole vectors are oriented parallel with each other but not in linear alignment with each other.